Transferrin Saturation (% Sat)

Routine annual

also iron saturation

What it isThe percentage of transferrin that is currently carrying iron, calculated as serum iron divided by TIBC.

DoesReports the loading state of the iron transport system.

GoodMid-range saturation signals balanced iron handling.

BadLow saturation (<20%) confirms iron deficiency. Persistently high saturation (>45%) is the primary screen for hereditary hemochromatosis and drives organ damage from iron overload.

Standard

20–50%.

Optimal

25–40% (narrow target)

Modifiers

Same drivers as serum iron and TIBC.

How to optimize

Lifestyle: Phlebotomy if elevated due to overload.
Diet: Adjust based on direction; reduce heme iron and vitamin C with meals if overload; emphasize tea (binds iron) in overload.
Supplements: Iron only if confirmed deficient; lactoferrin gentler than salts.
Peptides: —
Drugs: Phlebotomy or chelation for hemochromatosis; IV iron for severe deficiency.

within Iron