Myths vs facts: Ferritin and Langlebigkeit

Ferritin is a key iron storage protein, but it is often misunderstood. Myth: High ferritin always indicates good iron stores and promotes longevity. Fact: Ferritin is an acute-phase reactant; it rises with inflammation, infection, or liver disease, independent of iron status. Elevated ferritin can also signal iron overload (hemochromatosis), which increases oxidative stress and is linked to reduced lifespan. Low ferritin indicates iron deficiency, leading to anemia, fatigue, and cognitive decline. The relationship between ferritin and longevity is nuanced: both extremes appear detrimental. The provided knowledge context does not include specific studies on ferritin and longevity; this answer is based on general mechanistic understanding. Caveat: Ferritin must be interpreted alongside CRP, transferrin saturation, and clinical presentation. Self-supplementation with iron without proper testing can be dangerous. Evidence level: mechanistic/unclear.