Iron deficiency isn’t always as simple as low iron stores. Some people struggle with low circulating iron despite high ferritin levels, which often points to inflammation, poor iron metabolism, or underlying gut issues.

If you've ever had a blood test showing high ferritin but still feel exhausted, weak, or iron-deficient, this is a sign that iron isn’t being used properly by the body.

In Part 1, I covered the main reasons why iron levels can stay low despite supplementation—low stomach acid, inflammation, poor absorption, and the wrong form of iron. Now, let’s go deeper into how to fix these issues so iron actually gets into your cells and stays there.

If you’ve been struggling with chronic low iron, it’s not just about taking more. It’s about addressing the underlying reasons why your body isn’t absorbing or using it properly.

Iron deficiency is one of the most common issues I see in clinic, especially in Women. If you’ve ever felt exhausted, breathless, foggy, or struggled with hair loss, you’ve probably been told to check your iron.

But what happens when you take iron supplements and your levels still won’t budge? Or worse, when iron makes you feel nauseous, constipated, or inflamed?

Iron metabolism is far more complex than just taking a supplement. There are multiple factors that block absorption, drive depletion, and increase inflammation, making it harder for your body to use iron properly.

If you’ve been struggling with low iron for years, there’s a reason why.