Ferritin is a double-edged biomarker: it stores iron but also rises as an acute-phase protein during inflammation. For longevity, both aspects matter. Persistently high ferritin may indicate iron overload (hemochromatosis) or chronic inflammation – both promote oxidative stress and are linked to reduced lifespan. Low ferritin signals iron deficiency, which can impair energy, immunity, and cognition. The genetic variant rs1800629 (TNF) can slightly influence ferritin via inflammatory pathways, but the effect is small and not clinically actionable. Crucially, ferritin should be interpreted alongside iron, transferrin saturation, and CRP. A DNA test alone cannot assess iron status or inflammation. For a longevity strategy, maintaining balanced iron stores is key – neither overload nor deficiency is beneficial. Consult a doctor before taking supplements or making dietary changes. The evidence directly linking ferritin to longevity is currently mechanistic and lacks robust longitudinal studies.
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