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How to Increase Hemoglobin Naturally

Smita Pandit
Consuming foods that are naturally rich in iron or the ones that have been fortified with iron is the best way to increase hemoglobin naturally. This write-up provides information on the causes and natural treatment of low hemoglobin.
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 this unstable compound 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. It's iron content 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.
Malnutrition and nutritional deficiencies are most likely to lower the levels of this iron-carrying protein, which in turn would give rise to fatigue, headache, lack of concentration, and low energy levels.
Those of you who have been experiencing these symptoms must get a complete blood test done. The affected individuals should try to increase hemoglobin naturally by making some dietary changes.

Normal Range

For an average male, hemoglobin should lie between 14 to 18 grams per deciliter, while for females it should be within 12 to 16 grams per deciliter. The normal range for children is between 11 and 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, thereby causing iron deficiency anemia. Those affected by vitamin B12 or folate deficiency could also have a low count. In case of some women, blood loss due to heavy menstrual bleeding could be a contributing factor.
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, etc., are other contributory factors.

Natural Remedies

If you are planning to use iron supplements, 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. To increase the levels of this iron-carrying protein, foods that are rich in iron must be included in the diet. These include:
  • Whole grains
  • Egg yolk
  • Oysters
  • Shrimp
  • Clams
  • Scallops
  • Sardines
  • Red meat
  • Liver
  • Beef
  • Chicken
  • Spinach
  • Figs
  • Almonds
  • Prunes
  • Raisins
  • Beans
  • Broccoli
  • Collard green
  • Kale
  • Lettuce
  • Chickpeas
  • Lentils
  • Dried peas
  • Iron-enriched cereals
  • Dried apricots
Tea, coffee, and soy products can interfere in the process of iron absorption, and so, it would be best to cut down on their intake. Excessive consumption of foods rich in calcium, zinc, and vitamin E can also interfere with absorption of iron. Since vitamin C facilitates better absorption of iron, including foods rich in vitamin C to your diet might help.
Follow the aforementioned measures in order to increase or restore the hemoglobin levels to normal. If iron supplementation has been advised, make sure that you take the pills as per the recommended dosage.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.