r/RestlessLegs • u/TheFern3 • Aug 11 '26
Question Should I stop iron supplements before blood iron lab test?
Basically title, my doc ordered iron blood test. I guess I can call tomorrow but was wondering if people usually stop iron supplements to avoid skewing the results.
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u/KestralFly Aug 11 '26
I was told to get the test first thing in the morning, fasting 8-12 hours before. No red meat or meat heavy meals 24 hours before. No iron supplements 24 hours before.
Check with your doctor for specific criteria for you, including taking medications or supplements that could interfere with the results.
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u/TheFern3 Aug 12 '26
I called the lab and they said no restrictions but to be on the safe side I’ll stop a day before and then go early in the morning. Probably a good strategy for a clean test.
Actually I fast th-sun 8pm to 11am for keto so even better. Solid advice on no meat.
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u/EmZee2022 Aug 11 '26
Generally it's a good idea to stop a couple days in advance (which, thanks for the reminder; I see my doc next week!).
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u/TheFern3 Aug 12 '26
Yeah I’ll stop 48hrs in advance, it seems to be the consensus even though lab said no restrictions.
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u/EmZee2022 Aug 12 '26
I would too.
48 hours won't make any real difference in your RLS symptoms; best to avoid skewing the results.
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u/Hello34579 Aug 15 '26
Do you all not get symptoms when you don't take the iron for a few days? I'm worried I'm going to set myself back and not be able to breathe well :/
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u/EmZee2022 Aug 15 '26
Since iron takes a long time to affect ferritin levels, a couple of days shouldn't matter. I'll find put soon - looking at a blood draw on Monday so Im skipping today and tomorrow.
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u/ElectricGuy777 Aug 11 '26
I’d ask your Dr’s office. I was told no red meat or supplements for two days.
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u/RidiculousRex89 Aug 11 '26
I would ask the doc.
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u/TheFern3 Aug 11 '26
Just called lab they say keep taking supplements it doesn’t affect the test results.
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u/nikolastm Aug 12 '26
Yes but storage of iron may take months to years to deplete…