⚙️ Iron Metabolism Biochemistry: Hepcidin, Ferritin, Transferrin, Heme and Non-Heme Iron
How the body regulates iron - let's look at the key proteins and processes
Iron is an important mineral that carries oxygen and participates in energy. The body strictly regulates its metabolism. Hepcidin, ferritin and transferrin play key roles.
Understanding iron metabolism helps explain deficiency and excess. Let's look at the key proteins and processes.
The role of iron
Iron is a mineral that carries oxygen in hemoglobin and participates in energy production.
Hepcidin
Hepcidin is the main regulator of iron metabolism. It controls iron absorption.
Ferritin
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in cells. Its level reflects iron stores.
Transferrin
Transferrin is a protein that carries iron in the blood.
Heme and non-heme
Iron in food is heme and non-heme. They absorb differently.
| Type | Sources | Absorption |
|---|---|---|
| Heme | Meat, fish | Better |
| Non-heme | Greens, legumes | Worse, depends on factors |
Deficiency and excess
Iron metabolism disorders show as deficiency or excess.
Anemia
Low ferritin and hemoglobin. Fatigue, weakness.
Overload
High ferritin. May damage organs.
What matters
How to sensibly approach iron.
Assess your tests
Ferritin, hemoglobin, transferrin saturation. As prescribed.
Consider absorption
Heme iron absorbs better. Vitamin C improves non-heme.
Do not exceed
Iron excess is dangerous. Take as prescribed.
Risk groups
Vegans (non-heme), women, blood loss. More in the article on iron forms.
What is hepcidin?
The main regulator of iron metabolism. It controls iron absorption and release from stores.
What does ferritin show?
Ferritin reflects iron stores. A low level is a sign of deficiency.
How is heme iron different?
Heme iron (from meat and fish) absorbs better than non-heme (from plants).
What is transferrin?
A protein that carries iron in the blood. Saturation reflects available iron.
How to improve iron absorption?
Vitamin C improves non-heme iron absorption. Phytates from grains worsen it.
Is iron excess dangerous?
Yes, iron excess is toxic and can damage organs. Do not exceed doses.
Which tests for iron?
Ferritin, hemoglobin, transferrin saturation. As prescribed.
Who is at risk of deficiency?
Vegans, women, blood loss. Heme iron absorbs better.
Why is ferritin elevated with inflammation?
Ferritin is an acute-phase protein. It rises with inflammation, complicating assessment.
When to take iron?
With confirmed deficiency - as prescribed by a doctor. Do not self-medicate.