Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity

Understanding Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity

Iron is an important nutrient required to perform various bodily functions. Iron helps produce healthy red blood cells (RBCs). It acts as a crucial part of hemoglobin, the protein in RBCs that combines with oxygen and is transported to various body parts. Besides these, iron provides energy, improves concentration, promotes healthier skin, nails, and hair, strengthens the immune system, etc. Usually, the body cannot produce iron by itself and thus it is absorbed from the foods we eat or from supplements.

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What does Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity measure?

An Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity test determines the reserve capacity of transferrin, a protein that binds iron, not yet bound to iron. UIBC is most frequently used along with a serum iron test and a total iron-binding capacity test (TIBC) to evaluate individuals suspected of having either iron deficiency (such as iron deficiency anemia) or iron overload.