If you’ve been told to “just take iron” for low ferritin and it either didn’t work or made you feel worse, this episode is for you. In this episode, I’m sharing my personal postpartum ferritin story and walking through why iron alone wasn’t the answer for me… or for so many of the clients I work with. Low ferritin is one of the most misunderstood labs I see. And for most people, it’s not about iron intake. It’s about whether the body is actually ready to absorb, use, recycle, and store iron. In this episode, we zoom out and talk about the systems that control ferritin, including digestion, motility, minerals, and liver support. I also cover: Why ferritin often stays low even when you’re taking iron How postpartum depletion changes how the body handles iron Why iron can worsen constipation, bloating, and nausea The role of digestion, motility, and mineral balance in ferritin Why constipation is often a cause, not a side effect How the liver influences iron storage and regulation Why ferritin is usually a signal, not the root problem This episode is especially for you if: You’re postpartum or have a history of heavy periods You struggle with constipation or slow digestion You don’t tolerate iron well Your labs are “normal” but you still feel exhausted Ferritin only improves while you’re actively taking iron I’m hosting a free training called Why Iron Isn’t Enough 👉 Learn more and register here Find the real root causes of your GI symptoms with our free, 2 minute Quiz! Connect + Next Steps Want daily education, stories, and gut-friendly support? Heather on Instagram Ready for personalized 1:1 support and a clear plan? Apply for gutTogether® Want a chance to win a free HTMA Bundle? Leave a rating & review and email it to happygut@drheatherfinley.co with [PODCAST REVIEW] in the subject line! We choose a new winner every month!