TIBC
TIBC (total iron-binding capacity) shows how much iron the blood can carry, which mainly reflects the amount of the transport protein transferrin.
TIBC (total iron-binding capacity) shows how much iron the blood can carry, which mainly reflects the amount of the transport protein transferrin. The body adjusts it to its iron stores: when stores are low, capacity goes up to take in more iron, and when stores are full it goes down. It is read together with iron, ferritin and transferrin saturation. Retesting shows how it changes over time.
Low iron intake, blood loss through heavy periods or frequent blood donation, pregnancy and the contraceptive pill tend to raise TIBC. A lot of iron from supplements, inflammation after a recent infection and low protein intake tend to lower it.
Foods that help
Iron-rich foods such as red meat, poultry, fish, shellfish, legumes, tofu, dark leafy greens and fortified cereals. Vitamin C from fruit, berries and vegetables at the same meal helps the body take up iron from plant foods.
Foods to limit
Coffee and tea with iron-rich meals, and large amounts of calcium at the same meal, reduce iron uptake. Iron supplements without a clear need.
Track it through the year
One value is a snapshot. Following it up shows whether what you changed is working.
Related markers
Educational information only — not a diagnosis. Every result is checked against safe limits, and anything critical is escalated for follow-up.
See all 84 markers →