What is Hemoglobin?
Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein present in red blood cells and is responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. It is necessary to maintain normal levels of hemoglobin in your blood for your body to function properly i.e. 14 to 18 g/dl for adult men and 12 to 16 g/dl for adult women. When the level of hemoglobin drops, it can cause weakness, fatigue, headaches, shortness of breath, dizziness, poor appetite and rapid heartbeat. If the level of hemoglobin decreases significantly, the condition may be diagnosed as anemia and symptoms can become severe.
Hemoglobin Test
Hemoglobin A1c - To assist with control of blood glucose levels, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) has recommended glycated hemoglobin testing (HbA1c) twice a year for patients with stable glycemia, and quarterly for patients with poor glucose control. Interpretative ranges are based on ADA guidelines.
Hemoglobin - Usual method for determining anemia. Used to calculate indices.
Hemoglobin and Hematocrit - Usual method for determining anemia. Used to calculate indices.
Steps for Increasing Hemoglobin
Eat Iron-Rich Foods: Iron deficiency is the most common cause of low hemoglobin levels, according to the National Anemia Action Council. The top iron rich foods include green leafy vegetables like spinach, beetroot, tofu, asparagus, chicken liver, whole egg, oysters, apple, pomegranate, apricot, watermelon, prunes, pumpkin seeds, dates, almonds, raisins, amla and jaggery.
Increase Vitamin C Intake: It is important to have a combination of both iron and vitamin C as the latter is a carrier rich molecule that can be used for better absorption of iron. Eat foods rich in vitamin C such as oranges, lemon, strawberries, papaya, bell peppers, broccoli, grapefruit and tomatoes.
Increase Folic Acid Intake : Folic acid, a B-complex vitamin, is required to make red blood cells and a folic acid deficiency automatically leads to a low level of hemoglobin. Some good food sources of folic acid are green leafy vegetables, sprouts, dried beans, wheat germ, peanuts, bananas, broccoli and chicken liver. Planning for a lab ordering?. tuhealthy will help you to find quests labs location near you.
