I've given blood for a long time, but haven't in a year or so. I started LCing about 3 months ago, and decided to get back in the habit, especially when I've read that your iron can get too high on this diet and you shouldn't have iron supplements.

Anyway, I was able to give blood, but my iron was borderline. It was 39, where 38 was the cut-off (or the other way around?). I eat tons of red meat and veggies like broccoli, so I'm a little confused. Any ideas?

Better to have low than high,high is really dangerous.
If you r feeling fine dont worry,I have had low iron for years but really it doesnt effect me.
Nothing to worry about.

I have low stored iron (low ferritin level), and that also surprised me, since I figured my low carb higher protein eating would fix that, but it didn't. I'm not sure what causes it, but I'm going to try iron supplements, because my low ferritin level contributes to another condition I have, so I'm trying to do what I can to improve it.

i didn't realize the diet caused high iron- i thought the reason for not adding iron was the constipation factor-hence the fiber supplements....when i was real bad anemic i had to do both... but i have needle phobia so i can't really hep too much-but i know that when my daughter was diag. with an iron prob. (as a baby) they did say too much iron can turn into a toxin so it makes since....

I'll go donate again in 2 months, and see if my iron has recovered. In the meantime I'll continue to take my multi's with iron, and add a few more beef meals each week (aw, darn!)

Supposedly, cooking with cast iron adds some iron to the food.

Those of you who get the "Omnivore" newsletter will have seen this. According to him, the current level of iron recommended by doctor's is too high and can cause health problems. Maybe I'm OK after all. Omnivore

I would not start on vits untill a doctor has tested your level.If you start on the vits and end up with high iron you could have kidney failer.If you have low iron,eating extra beef and spinach will not help in the long run.......except Liver and spinach and beef are good.

No iron supplements for me! The way the Omnivore talks, my levels are just fine where they are. Since I feel fine, and have no trouble when I exersize hard, I won't worry about the iron.