well aware
The Thing About “Ferretin Face”
The latest beauty mystery on TikTok can’t be solved with a Sephora haul. The idea behind “ferritin face” is that dark circles or unusually pale skin could signal low iron. There’s some truth to it. Iron-deficiency anemia can cause paleness, but genetics and allergies may also explain those under-eye shadows. Exhaustion, dizziness, and an irregular heartbeat are other symptoms to watch for. If any sound familiar, check in with your doctor.
Why does it matter? You need iron to make hemoglobin, the protein that helps red blood cells carry oxygen. If your body can't produce enough, you could develop anemia, which can leave you lightheaded, weak, or short of breath.
What's ferritin, exactly? It's a protein that stores iron inside your cells. Your reserves may drop before a routine blood count reveals a problem, which is where a ferritin test comes in. It's not always included in standard lab work, so ask if you need one.
For Your Sanity:
That ice-chewing habit could be a clue. A persistent urge to crunch it is called pagophagia and can show up before anemia does. One theory is that it briefly boosts blood flow to the brain.
Get specific. Ask whether your labs included ferritin, and mention if your periods are heavy. Month after month, that blood loss can drain your iron stores.
Figure out a plan. Over-the-counter supplements are usually the first step, but some people need IV iron. Your doctor can also help pinpoint what depleted your levels in the first place.
Well Reviewed
Feeling Touchy
These hand creams can help protect against crack and chafe, so your hands feel human, no matter how low the temps drop.
CeraVe
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is the best derm-approved option.
Eucerin
Eucerin Advanced Repair Lotion is the best option for very dry skin.
Aveeno
Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturizing Lotion is the best option for irritated skin.
LXMI
LXMI Pure Nilotica Melt is the best multipurpose option.
Here’s the full list of the best hand treatments, according to experts.
Well said
Jess McClain Hits Her Stride
The NYC Marathon runner-up, 34, returned to racing for fun and podiumed in the process. Now, she has her sights set on the 2028 Olympics. The secret to her comeback? A few unexpected words from her coach.
Well Fed
Soup's On
There's a chill in the air, which means soup season has arrived. A good bowl can pack vegetables, protein, and fiber into one cozy meal, often with minimal prep and cleanup. Plus, tomorrow's lunch is practically taken care of.
Make it hearty. This turkey-and-chickpea stew packs 32 grams of protein and 13 grams of fiber per serving, thanks to a mix of legumes, vegetables, and lean meat. Not bad for a weeknight dinner.
Rethink pasta night. Broken lasagna soup with spinach combines Italian sausage, tender noodles, and greens for all the comfort of a casserole, minus the oven.
Put fall produce to work. Summer-into-fall vegetable and lentil soup pairs seasonal ingredients with earthy lentils for a simple and satisfying plant-based dinner.
No Notes
well aware
The Thing About “Ferretin Face”
The latest beauty mystery on TikTok can’t be solved with a Sephora haul. The idea behind “ferritin face” is that dark circles or unusually pale skin could signal low iron. There’s some truth to it. Iron-deficiency anemia can cause paleness, but genetics and allergies may also explain those under-eye shadows. Exhaustion, dizziness, and an irregular heartbeat are other symptoms to watch for. If any sound familiar, check in with your doctor.
Why does it matter? You need iron to make hemoglobin, the protein that helps red blood cells carry oxygen. If your body can't produce enough, you could develop anemia, which can leave you lightheaded, weak, or short of breath.
What's ferritin, exactly? It's a protein that stores iron inside your cells. Your reserves may drop before a routine blood count reveals a problem, which is where a ferritin test comes in. It's not always included in standard lab work, so ask if you need one.
For Your Sanity:
That ice-chewing habit could be a clue. A persistent urge to crunch it is called pagophagia and can show up before anemia does. One theory is that it briefly boosts blood flow to the brain.
Get specific. Ask whether your labs included ferritin, and mention if your periods are heavy. Month after month, that blood loss can drain your iron stores.
Figure out a plan. Over-the-counter supplements are usually the first step, but some people need IV iron. Your doctor can also help pinpoint what depleted your levels in the first place.
Well said
Jess McClain Hits Her Stride
The NYC Marathon runner-up, 34, returned to racing for fun and podiumed in the process. Now, she has her sights set on the 2028 Olympics. The secret to her comeback? A few unexpected words from her coach.
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