How to Increase Hemoglobin Naturally

Hemoglobin is a conjugated iron-carrying protein. It is a component of the red blood cells. It binds itself to oxygen and performs the vital task of transporting the oxygen-rich blood to the cells and tissues of the body. It comprises an iron-containing pigment called heme and a simple protein called globin. When it combines with oxygen, it forms an unstable compound called oxyhemoglobin. After the process of oxygenation takes place, oxygen is released from oxyhemoglobin to the bodily tissues where the concentration of oxygen is low and the concentration of carbon dioxide is higher. It returns the carbon dioxide from these tissues to the lungs. Thus, the transfer of oxygen and carbon dioxide is facilitated with the help of this iron-carrying protein. The iron content of this protein is responsible for the red color of the red blood cells. Any abnormalities in the structure of this protein molecule can also affect the shape of the red blood cells.

Fatigue, headache, lack of concentration and low energy levels are some of the common symptoms of low hemoglobin. Those of you who have been experiencing these symptoms must get a complete blood test done. Since malnutrition and nutritional deficiencies are most likely to lower the levels of this iron-carrying protein, making certain changes to your diet might prove beneficial. Here's some information on how to increase hemoglobin naturally.

Causes of Low Hemoglobin Levels

For an average male, this protein should lie between 14 to 18 grams per deciliter, while for females it should be within 12 to 16 grams per deciliter. As far as the normal range for children is concerned, it should be between 11 to 14 grams per deciliter. Low levels of this iron-based protein is basically attributed to an iron deficiency. Shortage of red blood cells or anemia could be caused due to vitamin or mineral deficiencies.

Since iron is the main component of this protein, an iron deficiency affects the synthesis of this protein and lead to an iron deficiency anemia. Those who are suffering from a deficiency of vitamin B12 or folate could also have a low count. In case of some women, blood loss due to heavy menstrual bleeding could also be responsible for low levels of hemoglobin. Certain genetic conditions such as sickle cell anemia could also cause a dip in the levels of this protein. The inability of the bone marrow to produce enough red blood cells, kidney failure, use of chemotherapy drugs, loss of blood due to an injury or surgery are other contributory factors.

Ways to Increase Hemoglobin Levels

If you are planning to use iron supplements for the treating low hemoglobin, make sure that you find out more about the side effects of these pills. It is essential that these supplements are taken as per the prescribed dosage. One can also follow natural remedies for increasing hemoglobin levels. Your diet must include foods rich in iron. These include egg yolk, whole grains, oysters, clams, scallops, sardines, shrimp, red meats, liver, beef, chicken, green vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, collard green, kale and lettuce, beans, lentils, chickpeas, dried peas, iron-enriched cereals, dried apricots, figs, almonds, prunes and raisins.

Besides including iron enriched foods in your diet, you must also cut down on the consumption of foods that inhibit absorption of iron. Tea, coffee and soy products can interfere in the process of iron absorption, therefore, people with low hemoglobin must cut down on their intake of these products. Excessive consumption of foods rich in calcium, zinc and vitamin E can also interfere with absorption of iron and must be avoided. Since vitamin C facilitates better absorption of iron, including foods rich in vitamin C to your diet might help.

This was some information on natural ways of bringing hemoglobin levels back to normal. If your hemoglobin levels are below the normal range, do include foods rich in iron to your diet.