Transferrin saturation
WHO/BSH: low (<20 %) supports iron deficiency; high suggests possible overload.
| Rating | Range | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Talk to a doctor | below 20 % | Low saturation — possible iron deficiency. |
| Good | 20 – 45 % | At optimum. |
| Talk to a doctor | 45 % and above | High — possible iron overload; seek advice. |
This marker also has 2 age- or sex-specific range sets in the app — the table shows the general one.
Why it matters
WHO/BSH: low (<20 %) supports iron deficiency; high suggests possible overload.
If it’s low
Low saturation means little available iron — often an early sign of deficiency, even before hemoglobin falls.
If it’s high
High saturation can indicate iron overload — important in hemochromatosis, where iron damages the liver, heart and pancreas.
What to do
Low: correct iron (after confirmation). High: do NOT add iron, check ferritin and, if needed, genetic testing for hemochromatosis.
Read together with
Ferritin · Transferrin · Iron · Hemoglobin
Part of the guide: Iron & ferritin →
Articles about this marker
- Ferritin and iron: what the values mean and how to improve themMarker explained
- How to raise iron and ferritin: an action planHow to improve
This content is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk to your doctor about your results.
Your number, not the average
Upload your report: we rate your exact value for your age and sex, show the source, and tell you what to do next.