Anyone else struggling with low ferritin while running? What are your supplementing tips?

TL;DR: Looking for tips on managing low ferritin levels and effective supplements while running.

i've been dealing with low ferritin levels recently and it's messing with my running. I've noticed I'm feeling fatigued and my performance has dipped. I've read a lot about iron supplements, but what actually works? Are there specific brands or types you all have found effective? Also, how do you manage iron intake while trying to avoid any digestive issues? Curious about your experiences.

10 comments

Comments

u/fitness_skeptic·6 days ago

Not all supplements are created equal. You gotta do your research before picking one. Some are just overpriced placebo pills. And iron isn't the only thing to worry about; have you checked your B12 levels? That can also play a big role in energy levels.

243

u/recovery_queen·3 days ago

You might also want to look at your overall diet. Foods rich in vitamin C can enhance iron absorption, so pair your supplements with orange juice or something similar. It's a small tweak but could make a difference. And don't forget about hydration; fatigue can also come from being dehydrated, especially when running.

u/macro_master99·6 hours ago

Low ferritin can really tank your performance, especially in endurance sports like running. I'd recommend checking out ferrous bisglycinate; it's more easily absorbed and usually easier on the stomach. Just be cautious, as too much iron can cause digestive issues. I've seen some people get a blood test to monitor levels while supplementing, which is smart.

u/overtrained_and_underfed·6 days ago

Low ferritin sucks. I went through that too while I was powerlifting. I started using iron bisglycinate, and it helped a lot without wrecking my stomach. Just remember to space it out from calcium supplements since they can hinder absorption.

u/recomp_royalty·5 days ago

Keep in mind that some people experience side effects from iron supplements. If you're getting digestive issues, you might want to try taking them with food, but avoid dairy at that time. Also, I've heard mixed reviews about different brands; I tend to stick with a reputable one like Thorne or Garden of Life.

u/bodyweight_brawler·6 days ago

I've dealt with iron issues too, and I found that focusing on whole foods helps a ton. Spinach, lentils, and red meat are great sources! Plus, they come with other nutrients that your body needs for recovery and performance. Also, have you thought about getting your levels checked? It could give you more insight into how to manage this.

u/mealprep_maven·6 days ago

Meal prepping with iron-rich foods can really help, especially as a busy mom! I like to make big batches of chili with beans and beef. It's super filling and you can portion it out for the week. Just make sure you're balancing it with fiber to keep digestion smooth.

u/broke_but_fit·6 days ago

Yeah, iron supplements can hit your wallet hard. If you're on a budget like me, try eating more beans and dark leafy greens! Just be careful with your meals so you don't get stomach issues. I made the mistake of overloading on iron-rich foods at once, and that was a regret.

u/the_hungry_runner·6 days ago

I totally get the fatigue struggle! When I was training for my last marathon, I started feeling drained too. I added some iron-rich foods to my meal prep, like quinoa and chickpeas, and it made a noticeable difference. Plus, I found some great recipes that kept things interesting.

u/gymbro_420·6 hours ago

Lmao, running with low iron feels like running through molasses. You might just be overthinking it too, bro. But fr, supplements are hit or miss; I'd say try a reputable brand and see how it goes. Or just crush some spinach like Popeye!