The pigment in your blood that carries oxygen is called haemoglobin. It is a protein that also brings back carbon dioxide from your cells to the lungs. The haemoglobin level varies depending on an individual's age and gender. A drop in its count can cause several health issues, including dizziness. Low levels of hemoglobin may also be a sign of an underlying health condition, such as anemia or cancer. Some dietary measures and supplements may help boost hemoglobin levels at home. Read on to know more.
This includes:
Pomegranates are high in carbohydrates, protein, fibre, and minerals like iron and calcium. Its high nutritious content makes it an excellent food to raise haemoglobin levels. Consuming pomegranate juice daily can help to keep your haemoglobin content at adequate levels.
Dates provide ample sources of iron that increases haemoglobin levels in the blood. This intensely sweet dried fruit is packed with energy and is super nourishing. However, most doctors recommend that diabetics must avoid eating dates due to their high sugar content.
One of the best foods to increase haemoglobin levels is beetroot. It is rich in iron, potassium, fibre, and folic acid. Consume beetroot juice every day to ensure a good haemoglobin count.
Legumes, such as beans, peanuts, peas, and lentils, can also considerably raise haemoglobin levels. Their high iron and folic acid content promotes the body's synthesis of red blood cells.
Pumpkin seeds serve about 8mg of iron along with sufficient calcium, magnesium and manganese content. You can consume these seeds by sprinkling them over salads or in your smoothies.
Watermelon's high iron and vitamin C content makes the iron absorption process better and faster. This makes watermelons one of the best fruits for increasing haemoglobin levels.
Vitamin-C containing foods increase iron absorption in the body. Eat more oranges, lemons, bell peppers, tomatoes, grapefruits, berries, etc., as they are a rich source of Vitamin C.
Folic acid is a B-complex vitamin that is required to make red blood cells in the body. Consume more green leafy vegetables, sprouts, dried beans, peanuts, bananas, broccoli, liver, et al more often.
With over 80% of cocoa, dark chocolate naturally improves hemoglobin levels. Plus, it is loaded with minerals, nutrients and antioxidants.
Some home remedies to increase haemoglobin are:
There is no denying the body produces haemoglobin when you exercise to meet the increasing demand for oxygen. If your haemoglobin levels are low, you must begin regular exercise as soon as possible.
You can also start using iron utensils as they fortify the food you cook in them and help increase your haemoglobin level.
Brown rice is rich in iron, containing 0.52 milligrams of iron for every 100 grams. As a superfood, it can also help prevent various diseases related to cholesterol and the gastrointestinal system.
Some foods and drinks can limit iron absorption in your body. Avoid or limit the intake of substances like coffee, tea, calcium-rich foods, antacids, and red wine, along with meals, as they can interfere with iron absorption.
Keep yourself hydrated by drinking at least 6-8 glasses of water every day. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and affect the blood levels in your body. Drinking an adequate amount of water will help in proper blood circulation and improve overall health.
The normal haemoglobin range is 12.1 - 15.1 g/dL for women and 13.8 - 17.2 g/dL for men. However, the levels can vary slightly as per age, gender, and health conditions.
Some symptoms of low haemoglobin include weakness, fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, irregular or rapid heartbeat, headaches (which can be persistent), and pale or yellowish skin. If you experience any symptoms, you must seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Yes, some dry fruits like dates, raisins, apricots, and prunes can increase haemoglobin levels as these are rich in iron. However, it doesn’t increase overnight but over time depending on individual conditions.
Yes, you can increase your haemoglobin levels naturally instead of relying completely on medication. Consume foods rich in iron and cooked in iron utensils, avoid iron blockers such as coffee, tea, and calcium-rich foods, have foods which promote gut health, manage stress with meditation and deep breathing exercises, and engage in regular exercise.
Pomegranates, apples, strawberries, and citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruits are good for increasing haemoglobin levels.
Raising your haemoglobin count can take several weeks, depending on the underlying cause and the dietary modifications you make. You can also start using home remedies to increase haemoglobin. But you need to seek advice from a physician before you start any home remedy, particularly if you're pregnant or suffer from a chronic illness.
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Source: food.ndtv, healthline, sanguina, nutritionvalue, medicalnewstoday, metropolisindia.com
Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.
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Published on December 26, 2023