Is Ferritin Eisenmangel useful for Langlebigkeit?

The question of whether ferritin (iron storage) measurement is useful for longevity requires a nuanced answer. Ferritin is a key biomarker of body iron stores. Iron deficiency (low ferritin) can lead to anemia, fatigue, and impaired immune function, which may negatively impact healthspan and potentially lifespan. Conversely, high ferritin levels indicate iron overload, which promotes oxidative stress and is linked to chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders—all factors that can shorten longevity. However, the evidence for a direct benefit of ferritin testing on longevity is weak and primarily mechanistic or observational. No randomized controlled trials demonstrate that optimizing ferritin levels alone extends lifespan. Furthermore, ferritin is an acute-phase reactant; it can be elevated due to inflammation without reflecting true iron stores. Therefore, isolated ferritin measurement without additional markers (e.g., transferrin saturation, CRP) is insufficient for longevity assessment. For evidence-based evaluation, individual factors such as age, sex, inflammatory status, and genetic predisposition (e.g., hemochromatosis risk) must be considered. In summary, ferritin is a useful component of a comprehensive health assessment but not a standalone indicator for longevity.