Haemoglobin is an iron-rich protein that is found in red blood cells. It gives your blood its red colour. It's responsible for transporting oxygen to all parts of the body and carrying it back.
Haemoglobin transports the oxygen and carbon dioxide from the body’s cells to the lungs. It is an important protein that is essential for living a healthy lifestyle.
What happens if your haemoglobin level drops?
A decrease in haemoglobin levels can make it more difficult for the body to absorb enough oxygen. This can cause fatigue, dizziness and headaches, as well as shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, pale skin, and other symptoms. Anaemia is a health condition in which the haemoglobin levels in the blood are lower than normal. Adult men need to have a haemoglobin level of around 14-18 g/dL, while adult women need 12-16 g/dL.
The diet plays a major role in haemoglobin synthesis and maintenance. Below are the top foods that can help increase haemoglobin levels.
Try beetroot
Beetroot is rich in natural iron, magnesium and copper. It also contains vitamins B1, B2, and B6. This vegetable has the potential to increase haemoglobin and help in the regeneration of red blood cells. You can eat it raw or cooked. You can also blend it to make beetroot juice.
Moringa Leaves
Moringa leaves are rich in minerals like copper, magnesium, zinc, iron, vitamin A, B and C. Take a few finely chopped moringa leaves and make a paste, add a teaspoon of jaggery powder and blend well. This churna can be eaten daily with your breakfast to increase haemoglobin levels and red blood cell count.
Green Leafy Vegetables
If you want vegetarian sources of iron, go for green vegetables such as spinach, celery and mustard greens. Raw spinach can also cause iron deficiency. It should be cooked. This leafy green vegetable is a great source of vitamin B12 and folic acid and should be a regular part of your daily diet. Broccoli is rich in iron and B-complex vitamins and folic acid. It also has a healthy amount of other nutrients such as vitamin A, C, magnesium, and dietary fiber. They can help with weight loss and digestion.
Dates, raisins, and figs
Dates and raisins provide iron and Vitamin C. Figs are rich in iron, magnesium and vitamin A. A handful of dried raisins, figs, and two to three dates can give you instant energy and increase your haemoglobin levels. These dry fruits should be consumed in moderation by diabetics.
