Hemoglobin is a protein in your red blood cells that carries oxygen to your tissues and organs. It also helps to remove carbon dioxide from your body. Having a normal hemoglobin level is important for your health and well-being. If your hemoglobin level is too low, you may have anemia, which can cause symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, pale skin, and dizziness. If your hemoglobin level is too high, you may have a condition called polycythemia, which can increase your risk of blood clots, heart attack, and stroke.
There are many factors that can affect your hemoglobin level, such as your diet, lifestyle, medical conditions, and medications. Some of these factors are under your control, and you can use natural home remedies to improve your hemoglobin level. Here are some of the best home remedies that you can try:
Eat more iron-rich foods. Iron is an essential mineral that your body needs to make hemoglobin. Some of the foods that are high in iron include meat, poultry, fish, eggs, tofu, beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, dried fruits, dark green leafy vegetables, and fortified cereals. You can also take iron supplements if your doctor recommends them.
Increase your intake of vitamin C. Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that helps your body absorb iron from the foods you eat. It also boosts your immune system and protects your cells from damage. Some of the foods that are rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits, berries, kiwi, pineapple, papaya, mango, broccoli, cauliflower, peppers, tomatoes, and cabbage. You can also take vitamin C supplements if your doctor advises you to do so.
Consume more folate-rich foods. Folate is a type of B vitamin that helps your body make new red blood cells and prevent anemia. Some of the foods that are high in folate include spinach, kale, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, avocado, beans, lentils, peas, nuts, seeds, and fortified cereals. You can also take folic acid supplements if your doctor prescribes them.
Avoid foods and drinks that can interfere with iron absorption. Some substances can reduce the amount of iron that your body can use from the foods you eat. These include calcium (found in dairy products and supplements), tannins (found in tea and coffee), phytates (found in whole grains and legumes), and oxalates (found in spinach and rhubarb). You should limit or avoid these foods and drinks when you are eating iron-rich foods or taking iron supplements.
Drink beetroot juice. Beetroot is a root vegetable that has a deep red color due to its high content of betalains, which are natural pigments with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Beetroot juice can help increase your hemoglobin level by improving the oxygen-carrying capacity of your blood. It can also lower your blood pressure and enhance your exercise performance. You can drink fresh beetroot juice or mix it with other juices such as apple or carrot.
Eat more dates and raisins. Dates and raisins are dried fruits that are rich in iron and natural sugars. They can help boost your hemoglobin level by providing energy and nourishment to your blood cells. They can also improve your digestion and prevent constipation. You can eat dates and raisins as snacks or add them to your salads, cereals, or desserts.
Try blackstrap molasses. Blackstrap molasses is a thick dark liquid that is obtained from the final boiling of sugar cane juice. It is a good source of iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and other minerals that can help increase your hemoglobin level. It also has a sweet taste that can satisfy your sugar cravings. You can take one tablespoon of blackstrap molasses daily or mix it with warm water or milk.
These are some of the natural home remedies that you can use to improve your hemoglobin level at home. However, you should always consult your doctor before trying any of these remedies, especially if you have any medical condition or are taking any medication. Your doctor can check your hemoglobin level regularly and advise you on the best treatment for your condition.
Dr. Karuturi Subrahmanyam, MD, FRCP (London), FACP (USA)
Internal Medicine Specialist
Kify Hospital
Danavaipeta
Rajahmundry
Phone : 85000 23456
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