Looking at My Blood Work Through an “Optimal” Lens

I recently had blood work done, and while many of my results technically fell within the “normal” lab ranges, several markers stood out to me when viewed through a more optimal, functional lens—especially considering how I’ve been feeling lately.

Some of the symptoms I’ve been experiencing include:

• Fatigue

• Hair thinning

• Difficulty recovering from workouts

Here are a few of the markers that caught my attention:

• Vitamin B12: 538

• Free T3: 2.69

• Transferrin: 190

• Ferritin: 42

Again, these may not necessarily be flagged by conventional lab standards, but when looking at optimal ranges—particularly for active midlife women—these numbers may help explain some of what I’ve been feeling.

My HS-CRP, which is a marker of inflammation, was also mildly elevated. That piece felt important because inflammation can impact everything from iron utilization to recovery, energy, and overall resilience.

So What Am I Doing About It?

First, I want to emphasize that this is not medical advice—this is simply the personal plan I’m choosing to follow based on my own lab work, symptoms, and conversations with my healthcare provider.

My initial focus is on lowering inflammation and supporting my body nutritionally before jumping into anything more aggressive.

My Current Plan:

• Following a more Whole30-style nutrition approach focused on whole, nutrient-dense foods

• Increasing my intake of iron-rich foods, especially red meat

• Pairing iron-rich meals with vitamin C-rich foods to support absorption

• Drinking coffee away from meals to avoid inhibiting non-heme iron absorption

• Trying an iron supplement every other day

• Prioritizing recovery, sleep, and stress management

One interesting thing I’ve learned is that iron status is about more than just iron intake. Inflammation, thyroid function, protein intake, digestion, and nutrient cofactors like copper and vitamin A can all influence how well the body transports and utilizes iron.

Why I’m Sharing This

I think many women—especially in perimenopause—are told their labs are “fine” while still feeling exhausted, depleted, or unlike themselves. Sometimes looking deeper at patterns, symptoms, and optimal ranges can open up more productive conversations about health.

I already have repeat blood work scheduled for next year, but for now, I’m starting with foundational lifestyle and nutrition changes to see whether my energy, recovery, and overall well-being improve.

Final Thoughts

I’m sharing this for educational and personal storytelling purposes only. Please consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before making changes to your supplements, nutrition, or health plan. What’s appropriate for one person may not be appropriate for another.