
Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional. This blog reflects my personal experience with my son’s health and athletic performance. Always consult a physician for medical advice or diagnosis.
Why I’m Writing About Iron and Ferritin
As the parent of a dedicated young athlete, I’ve learned a lot about health, nutrition, and performance. My 14-year-old son, Lane Hollis, is a nationally ranked triathlete who trains 15-20 hours a week. Recently, Lane faced an unexpected challenge that drastically impacted his running and energy levels: low ferritin. I’m sharing our story to help other athletes and parents who may be searching for answers.
Recognizing the Symptoms: A Sudden Drop in Energy
It all started on September 1st. Lane showed up to his cross-country (XC) practice feeling off. Pale, weak, and running a fever of 101.9°F, we assumed it was a typical seasonal bug. However, even after recovering from his fever, Lane’s running performance plummeted. He struggled to hold an 8:30 pace during warm-ups—a stark contrast to his usual 7:00-7:30 easy pace.
Over the following weeks, his symptoms persisted, including:
- Difficulty running efficiently
- Decreased energy
- Uncoordinated movement
Despite multiple doctor visits and tests, everything seemed “normal.” But I knew something wasn’t right.
The Role of Ferritin in Athletic Performance
A turning point came when I consulted a trusted coach, Jenny Weber, who immediately suspected low ferritin. She explained that while Lane’s blood tests showed normal hemoglobin levels, they hadn’t measured ferritin.
What is ferritin?
- Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in your body, acting like an “iron reserve.”
- Low ferritin levels can significantly impact endurance athletes, causing fatigue and poor performance.
Why Ferritin Levels Matter for Endurance Athletes
Endurance athletes, like runners and triathletes, often face iron depletion due to:
- Intense training regimens
- Increased iron demands during growth spurts
- Loss of iron through sweat and micro-tears in muscles
This is especially true for young athletes like Lane, whose training volume and growth put him at higher risk for deficiencies.
Diagnosing Low Ferritin
After hearing Jenny’s advice, we requested a specific ferritin test. When the results came back, Lane’s ferritin level was 11 ng/mL—far below the recommended 70-300 ng/mL for endurance athletes. Finally, we had an answer.
Treating Low Ferritin in Athletes
Lane started taking 65 mg of iron with vitamin C twice a day to boost absorption. Alongside supplements, we focused on incorporating iron-rich foods into his diet, such as:
- Lean meats
- Spinach
- Legumes
- Fortified cereals
Recovery and Lessons Learned
Just days after beginning his supplement regimen, Lane’s performance rebounded. He raced in a triathlon and secured second place overall, proving that addressing low ferritin was the key to restoring his energy and performance.
Key Takeaways for Parents and Athletes
- Know the Signs: Unexplained fatigue, poor performance, or lack of coordination may indicate low ferritin.
- Get the Right Tests: A standard CBC may not measure ferritin. Ask for a specific ferritin test.
- Iron is Essential: Proper iron levels are critical for endurance athletes, especially during growth spurts.
Final Thoughts
If you or your child is struggling with low energy or declining athletic performance, don’t overlook the possibility of low ferritin levels. Addressing this condition can make all the difference, as we discovered firsthand. I hope Lane’s story helps others navigate this challenge and find solutions faster.
Related Topics:
- Iron Deficiency in Athletes: Causes and Solutions
- How to Increase Ferritin Levels Naturally
- Top Iron-Rich Foods for Runners
By sharing this story, I hope to shed light on a common yet often overlooked issue for endurance athletes. Remember, performance problems often have a root cause—don’t stop searching until you find it.
-Mitchell Hollis