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Posted by u/broke_but_fit路路Question

Anyone else dealing with low ferritin while running? Tips?

TL;DR: Low ferritin has me feeling sluggish while running, any budget tips for supplements?

So, I just found out my ferritin levels are low, and I've been struggling with my runs lately. I feel sluggish, and my endurance is kinda trash rn. Been trying to eat iron-rich foods like spinach and red meat, but it's hard on a college budget! Any budget-friendly supplements or hacks u guys recommend?
I wanna get back to crushing my miles without feeling like I'm dragging a dead weight.

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u/cuttingseason2024路

Iron-rich foods are key, but I'd keep an eye on your vitamin C intake too. Helps with absorption. I started having orange slices with my spinach salad, and it's been a game-changer. Lowkey, it makes everything taste better too.

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u/fitbutfluffy路

Struggling with energy levels can feel rough, especially when you're trying to hit those running goals. I've been there too! It's all about finding what works for your body. Also, no shame in resting! Sometimes, we need to take a step back.

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u/caffeine_fueled_27路

This. Just this. Iron matters. I drink coffee to keep up, but I still make sure to eat my leafy greens. Balance, fam.

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u/broke_but_fit路

Good call! Gotta love that banana and almond butter combo. Ngl, it's super satisfying too. Can't go wrong with a little healthy fat!

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u/running_from_cardio路

Why run when you can lift? Just kidding! For real, maybe look into some liquid iron supplements. They tend to absorb better, and it might give you that extra oomph on your runs.

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u/cuttingseason2024路

I mean, not everyone can afford steak every day. You could also look at fortified cereals or oatmeal. They're often cheaper and can give you a solid iron boost.

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u/cardio_coward路

Running sounds rough. Like, can we just lift instead? 馃槀

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u/broke_but_fit路

Yo, I feel you on the budget struggle! Canned beans are lifesavers, and they're packed with iron. Just rinse them to cut some sodium, and you can toss them in so many dishes. Got my protein and iron fix without breaking the bank

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u/the_hungry_runner路

As a marathoner, i've had my fair share of low energy days. I found that eating a banana with almond butter before runs really helped boost my energy levels. Also, consider pairing iron-rich foods with vitamin C, like having strawberries with your spinach salad!

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u/keto_kardio_kid路

Honestly, consider looking into spirulina. It's a bit pricey up front, but a little goes a long way for iron and other nutrients. Plus, it's keto-friendly if that's your jam. Throw it in a smoothie for some extra green goodness!

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u/crossfit_curious路

I switched to a plant-based diet for a while and had a tough time with iron. I relied on lentils and tofu, but iron absorption is tricky with certain foods. Pairing them with citrus helped, but it's a learning curve. What about checking in with a nutritionist? They might have some ideas tailored for you.

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u/running_from_cardio路

Based! Rest is underrated. Just don't make it a habit, or you might end up on the couch forever. 馃槀

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u/dadbod_to_ripped路

As a dad who's been back in the gym for a couple of years, I've had my share of struggles with energy levels. Low ferritin can hit hard, especially when you're trying to stay active. Focus on getting a balanced diet with sources like dark chocolate (yes, that's a win), and consider talking to your doc about supplements that might work for you. I've found that small changes in diet really help maintain energy, especially with kids around!

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u/bodyweight_brawler路

For anyone dealing with low ferritin, bodyweight workouts can be great while you're figuring this out. Your energy will bounce back, and calisthenics can keep you fit without needing heavy iron intake right away.

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u/running_from_cardio路

Look, running is for cardio weirdos, but if you have to do it, make sure you're eating enough red meat. Just think of it like fuel for a car! The more premium the fuel, the better the performance

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u/dadbod_to_ripped路

For me, it was also about timing my meals right around workouts. I'd eat something light with iron before heading out, like a smoothie with spinach, and then have a recovery meal afterward. Balance is key, especially when you're feeling sluggish.

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u/fiftyshadesofwhey路

Low ferritin? Ugh, that sucks! Have you tried blackstrap molasses? It's like a cheap iron booster, and it adds a nice sweetness to oatmeal or smoothies. Just don't go overboard, too much sugar isn't great.

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u/yogurt_bowl_babe路

I totally get that sluggish feeling! When I was low on iron, I started adding lentils and chickpeas to my meals. They're super cheap and packed with iron. Plus, you can throw them in yogurt bowls for a protein boost!

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u/keto_kardio_kid路

Lowkey, if you don't mind the taste, consider some iron-fortified energy bars for those on-the-go days. They can be a quick fix when you don't have time to prep a meal.

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