Ferritin
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron inside your cells, acting as your body's iron reserve. Unlike a standard blood count, which measures iron currently circulating in your blood, ferritin tells us how much iron your body actually has in storage- a more complete picture of your iron status. Iron is essential for making haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. Ferritin levels can be influenced by diet, exercise, age, and your body's current demands.
Vitamin B12
A vitamin that your body cannot produce on its own, it must come entirely from diet or supplementation. It plays an important role in energy production, healthy nerve function, and the formation of red blood cells. B12 is found naturally in animal products including meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, and is also available in fortified foods. Levels can be affected by dietary choices, age, and how well your digestive system absorbs nutrients.
Folate
Folate plays a key role in producing and repairing DNA, forming healthy red blood cells, and supporting normal brain function. It works closely alongside vitamin B12, and the two are often measured together. Folate is found naturally in dark leafy greens, lentils, beans, and eggs. Levels can be influenced by diet, alcohol consumption, and how efficiently the body absorbs and uses nutrients. Folate is particularly important during pregnancy for healthy foetal development.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral involved in energy production, muscle and nerve function, and blood sugar regulation to name a few. It is found in a wide range of foods including nuts, seeds, dark leafy greens, legumes, and wholegrains. The majority of the body's magnesium is stored in bones and cells rather than in the blood, which means blood levels alone don't always reflect total body stores. Magnesium levels can be influenced by diet, stress, exercise, and certain medications.
Phosphate
Phosphate is a mineral that works closely with calcium to support healthy bones and teeth. It also plays a role in energy production at the cellular level. Phosphate levels are influenced by kidney function, diet, and certain hormonal processes. The body carefully regulates phosphate levels to maintain balance.
Calcium
Calcium is a mineral best known for supporting strong bones and teeth, but it also plays a vital role in muscle contraction, nerve signalling, and blood clotting. Your body carefully regulates calcium levels in the bloodstream to keep them within a healthy range. Most of the body’s calcium is stored in bones rather than circulating in the blood.
