Hemoglobin (HB): definition, role and function, why it goes down and up, how to raise the level. How to increase hemoglobin? How to raise hemoglobin at home? Products that raise hemoglobin Hemoglobin hormone

Everyone has heard about hemoglobin and, above all, about its low level in the blood, which leads to a serious condition called anemia. Meanwhile, this blood protein performs a number of important functions in the body, which means that its fluctuation in one direction or another can threaten a person with serious consequences.

In this article, we will dwell on the importance of hemoglobin for our body and ways to increase the level of this iron-containing blood protein.

What is hemoglobin

Hemoglobin (Hb) is an iron-containing blood protein found mainly in erythrocytes, i.e. red blood cells. Only a small part of this substance is present in the blood plasma.

The importance of hemoglobin lies in the fact that it is he who carries oxygen from the lungs to all cells of the body, and takes carbon dioxide on the way back. In fact, an erythrocyte is a kind of "barge" that runs along the bloodstream, transporting original containers - hemoglobin molecules filled with oxygen or carbon dioxide. Moreover, up to 40 million hemoglobin molecules can fit into one blood cell.

However, gas exchange is far from the only function of the protein in question. Hemoglobin removes acidic compounds from the body, preventing acidosis, and thanks to the synthesis of carbon dioxide, it prevents alkalization of the blood, preventing alkalosis. All this suggests that this substance is a key element that maintains the acid-base balance.

Finally, this iron-containing protein is responsible for blood viscosity, which means it prevents tissue fluid loss by regulating oncotic pressure.

As you can see, hemoglobin performs a number of very important functions in the body, and therefore it is not at all surprising that its deviations from the norm lead to serious illnesses and serious ailments. That is why we will further consider the norms of hemoglobin content in the blood and the reasons for its deviations from normal values.

Norms of hemoglobin in the blood

We must say right away that depending on gender and age, the level of hemoglobin can differ significantly.

In women, this indicator varies between 120-160 g / l. Moreover, it can seriously change during the period of menstrual flow, and therefore at this time the analysis for hemoglobin in women will be unreliable. You can take it only 5 days after menstruation.

For pregnant women, 110 g / l is considered the norm. This is explained simply: the total volume of blood in women in the position increases, and besides, the female body gives part of the iron to the fetus.

The hemoglobin index in men is higher - 130-170 g / l. Everything is also quite obvious here: a man is a breadwinner, he does more hard work, which means that he needs more energy and strength. In addition, the level of hemoglobin in men is affected by the production of testosterone.

If we talk about children, then their rate of iron-containing protein also seriously fluctuates depending on age. For example:

• in a newborn baby - 145-240 g / l;
• at 1 month - 110-210 g / l;
• at 3 months - 90-140 g / l;
• at 6 months - 110-140 g / l;
• at 1 year old - 95–135 g / l;
• at 3 years old - 110-150 g / l;
• at 7 years old - 115-155 g / l;
• at 13 years old - 115-155 g / l;
• at 16 years old - 120-160 g / l.

How does hemoglobin change?

It is worth noting that the level of the protein in question depends not only on age and gender. It is influenced by:

• Seasons. In autumn, hemoglobin decreases, perhaps because, due to the abundant harvest, people are more willing to eat plant foods.
• Terrain and climate. People living in the highlands tend to have elevated hemoglobin levels, while those who live in low-lying areas with no sun are more likely to develop anemia.
• The nature of nutrition. Vegetarians and non-meat vegans have Hb levels below average.
• Lifestyle. Physically hard work and intense strength training increase hemoglobin levels.
• Fresh air. Inhalation of clean air, by the way, like smoking, increases the level of hemoglobin. But in the body of a smoker, red blood cells carry oxygen polluted by tobacco smoke throughout the body, which means that the health indicators of the body in this case are seriously deteriorating.

And now let's move on to the pathological causes of fluctuations in the considered blood protein.

Low hemoglobin

The level of hemoglobin in the blood may decrease for the following reasons:

Profuse blood loss

The level of iron-containing protein can drop during surgery, when a person loses a lot of blood, it can be hidden intestinal bleeding, as well as menstrual flow in women.

Violation of the work of the hematopoietic organs

This may be a genetic anomaly with which a person was born, or a consequence of the negative impact of the environment (injury, infection, poisoning with industrial poisons or radiation exposure).

Lack of iron in the body

The reason for this phenomenon is the lack of iron in the food taken, protein starvation or chronic diseases of the stomach and intestines that prevent the absorption or absorption of iron in the blood. This condition is called iron deficiency anomia (anemia).

Why is iron deficiency anemia dangerous?

Anemia is the most common condition caused by low hemoglobin levels. Depending on the level of Hb, anemia can have varying degrees of severity:

• mild degree - hemoglobin level 90 g / l;
• medium degree - 70–90 g / l;
• severe degree - below 70 g / l.

Quite often, pregnant women and children face this condition, which can be explained by the increased need for iron in a growing organism.

Consequences of anemia

This condition manifests itself as severe symptoms that cover literally the entire body and lead to a serious deterioration in the quality of life. These include:

• sleep disturbance;
• frequent dizziness;
• increased fatigue and low performance;
• constant weakness and apathy;
• pallor of the skin and the appearance of dark circles under the eyes;
• dry skin and cyanosis of the lips;
• lack of appetite;
• noise in ears;
• shortness of breath, palpitations and tachycardia;
• delayed growth and development;
• weakened immunity and a tendency to colds;
• thinning, brittleness and hair loss;
• the appearance of constipation.

Prolonged or chronic anemia leads to deterioration in cognitive functions.

The consequences of anemia for pregnant women

Anemia is especially dangerous for expectant mothers. A woman in the position of a decrease in Hb may face:

• late toxicosis;
• fetal hypoxia;
• the development of bleeding;
• premature birth;
• early discharge of amniotic fluid;
• the death of the child immediately after birth.

Diseases leading to anemia

The appearance of these symptoms does not go unnoticed by a person, but the reasons for their development are usually not clear to the layman. A specialist, after conducting a biochemical blood test, will immediately note a low level of hemoglobin. More in-depth research will reveal the specific disease that led to a decrease in the level of iron-containing protein. It may turn out to be:

• hidden blood loss (intestinal bleeding);
• chronic gastritis or stomach ulcer;
• autoimmune diseases;
• inflammatory processes in the intestines or dysbacteriosis;
• severe infections (tuberculosis, hepatitis, pneumonia);
• deficiency of folic acid (vitamin B9) and cyanocobalamin (vitamin B12);
• oncological diseases;
• haemorrhoids.

How to increase hemoglobin

In the case of a pathological decrease in hemoglobin levels, doctors prescribe iron supplements. The most popular among them are medicines:

• Sorbifer Durules;
• Ferro foil;
• Hemofer drops;
• Ferrum lek;
• Maltofer;
• Totem.

The course of therapy varies from 2 to 12 weeks. In this case, the first results of treatment can be felt no earlier than after 2-3 weeks of admission. In addition, if there is no vitamin C in the composition of the medication taken, it is necessary to take ascorbic acid up to 0.3 g per day together with iron preparations.

It is also important to understand that during the period of taking iron supplements, it is forbidden to take calcium-containing products. Otherwise, iron will be poorly absorbed by the body.

Products that increase hemoglobin

If anemia is not very pronounced, it is much more useful to eliminate the syndrome by adjusting the diet. There are a number of foods that replenish iron stores in the body no worse than medicines. In this regard, people with low hemoglobin should add the following foods to their diet:

• red meat, as well as organ meats (heart, liver, kidneys and tongue). To maintain hemoglobin levels, it is enough to consume 50 g of beef tongue per day;
• fish and bird;
• vegetables and greens: new baked potatoes, tomatoes, pumpkin and all kinds of green vegetables (green onions, watercress, young turnip tops, parsley and broccoli);
• cereals: rye, buckwheat and oatmeal;
• legumes: peas, beans;
• fruits: apricots and dried apricots, apples and pomegranates, bananas and pears, quinces and persimmons;
• berries: black currant, blueberry, strawberry and cranberry;
• juices: carrot and beet (literally 50 ml daily);
• other products: nuts, dried mushrooms and dark chocolate, hematogen, seafood and seaweed, egg yolk.

It should be noted that strong tea and coffee interfere with the absorption of hemoglobin due to the tannins included in these drinks.

Recipes to increase hemoglobin levels

1. Take 1 glass of walnuts and prunes, raisins and dried apricots. After grinding the ingredients, send them to a deep bowl, add 1-2 chopped lemons directly with the peel and 3-4 tbsp. honey. Store the finished product in the refrigerator and use 2-3 tbsp. in a day.

2. Pour half a glass of buckwheat with 1 glass of kefir and leave overnight. Eat porridge for breakfast in the morning. After 2 weeks of such procedures, your hemoglobin will rise to normal levels.

3. Mix half a glass of freshly squeezed apple juice with the same amount of cranberry juice, add 1 tbsp. l. beetroot juice, stir and drink. Take the mixture 1 r / day for a month.

4. Combine beet and carrot juices, 100 ml each, and drink immediately. Using such a remedy once a day, you will raise hemoglobin in just 3 days, but to consolidate the effect, you need to take the medicinal liquid for a month.

5. Pour ½ cup of dry red wine into a glass vessel, put on the stove and boil for 5 minutes in a water bath. After removing the product from the stove, add 1 tbsp to it. melted butter and ¼ cup nettle broth. Take the remedy 1 r / day for 3 weeks in a warm form.

Elevated hemoglobin

An elevated hemoglobin level is no less dangerous than anemia, although this condition occurs much less frequently. A person whose blood contains excess hemoglobin experiences a number of unpleasant symptoms, including:

• sleep disturbance;
• drowsiness;
• fast fatiguability;
• loss of appetite,
• visual and hearing impairment,
• high blood pressure;
• headaches;
• skin redness;
• elevated temperature;
• pain in joints, muscles, bones;
• the presence of blood in the stool;
• alternating diarrhea and constipation;
• violation of the function of the urogenital organs (sometimes);
• rapid weight loss.

Causes of increased hemoglobin

Having taken all the necessary tests, the doctor will determine the cause of the increased hemoglobin. It may turn out to be:

• dehydration;
• excessive consumption of foods containing iron;
• heart defects;
• bronchial asthma or cardiopulmonary insufficiency;
• blood diseases (erythrocytosis, hemoglobinemia);
• kidney disease (increasing the production of the hormone erythropoietin);
• disruption of the bone marrow;
• stones in the gallbladder;
• taking drugs that increase performance;
• emphysema.

The appearance of symptoms of an elevated hemoglobin level cannot be ignored, because this pathological process leads to thickening of the blood and the formation of blood clots that clog the vessels.

How to lower hemoglobin

In the case of elevated Hb, the patient is prescribed drugs that thin the blood. These drugs are called antiplatelet agents. These include:

• Aspirin;
• Trental;
• Ticlopidin;
• Clopidrogel;
• Cardiomagnyl.

Products that reduce hemoglobin

Experts may advise changing the diet, diversifying it with food that actively reduces the level of red blood cells in the blood. These products include:

• River fish;
• vegetables (raw and stewed), especially carrots, cauliflower and sauerkraut;
• fermented milk products: cottage cheese and kefir, yogurt and fermented baked milk;
• pearl barley and oatmeal;
• fruits: apricot, lemon and grapes;
• fish fat.

To lower your hemoglobin level, try to drink more water. Drink often, but little by little. In addition, arrange fasting days 1-2 times a week, for example, on kefir or vegetables.

When conducting a diet to reduce hemoglobin levels, refrain from eating red meat and offal, smoked meats, full-fat milk, blackcurrants and red fruits. It is also recommended to be outdoors more often and increase physical activity, such as doing morning exercises or jogging.

Bioavailability of iron

Separately, it is worth mentioning the bioavailability (digestibility) of iron. In order for this microelement to be fully absorbed by the body, it is important to combine foods in the diet. Otherwise, the use of products that increase hemoglobin, and even taking iron supplements, may be ineffective. So:

Iron Absorption Foods

• sulfur-containing amino acids (meat, fish and all kinds of seafood);
• vitamin C (bell peppers, rose hips, oranges and lemons);
• folic acid (beef liver, walnuts and cod liver);
• copper (various cereals and peanuts);
• malic and citric acids (tomatoes, peppers and citrus fruits);
• sugar.

Products that reduce the absorption of iron

• milk and soy protein;
• calcium (dairy and sour-milk products);
• tannin (pomegranate and persimmon, as well as coffee and tea);
• phosphates (processed cheese, carbonated drinks and canned food);
• lentils and other legumes;
• bread.

Now you know how important hemoglobin is for our body, and what are the symptoms of an increase and decrease in the level of this protein in the blood. Such knowledge will help you seek medical help in a timely manner and protect yourself from the development of serious diseases.

Take care of your health!

Hemoglobin is a complex chemical compound of protein with the element iron, which is present in red blood cells. The function of hemoglobin in the human body is one of the most important - it is involved in the delivery of oxygen molecules to all tissues and organs of the body.

Oxygen is an element indispensable for the life of a living being; it takes part in the receipt and exchange of energy and in carrying out recovery reactions. The action of hemoglobin is based on the capture of oxygen in the lungs, carrying out further oxidation and transferring it to all body structures.

When hemoglobin is lowered, this means the onset of oxygen depletion of all body cells and weakening of the immune system. In order to prevent a decrease in hemoglobin in the blood below normal, you need to know what to do with a lack of iron in the body. Let's see in what cases the level of hemoglobin in the blood decreases, what are its norms in different people and in what ways to increase the lack of this substance at home.

Hemoglobin norm

The level of hemoglobin in the blood depends on the well-being and health of a person. If the hemoglobin levels are below normal, then we are talking about anemia, which is considered a rather formidable and dangerous disease.

The norm of hemoglobin in the blood depends on the gender of the person:

• In children, the hemoglobin content is normal, as in adults: before birth, HbA already begins to be synthesized, which, by the age of one, practically replaces the fetal hemoglobin that served the child during fetal development.
• In women, from 115 to 145 g / l (during pregnancy from 110 g / l);
• In men, from 130 to 160 g / l.

According to the volume of hemoglobin decrease, iron deficiency anemia can be of several degrees:

• mild (hemoglobin content from 110 g/l to 90 g/l);
• medium (hemoglobin content from 90 g/l to 70 g/l);
• severe (hemoglobin content less than 70 g/l).

There is also latent anemia (hidden). It is characterized by the normal presence of hemoglobin in erythrocytes against the background of a decrease in serum iron. At the same time, the symptoms of its decrease are manifested quite clearly. A similar condition is often inherent in women during pregnancy.

Symptoms of low hemoglobin

In addition to a blood test, which immediately reveals a lack of this important protein in the body, there are a number of symptoms: they can independently assume a low level of hemoglobin in the blood.

For men and women, these are:

• general weakness of the body, drowsiness;
• pale skin, sometimes it even seems “transparent”;
• bluish lips;
• the skin becomes dry and begins to peel off;
• in especially advanced cases, nails begin to break and hair fall out;
• for children, the main sign of a lack of hemoglobin is frequent illness.

While recognizing the symptoms of low hemoglobin in adults, you can successfully bring it back to normal without resorting to the help of doctors. But first, you need to know the reasons that reduce the content of this important element in the blood.

Causes of low hemoglobin

Why is hemoglobin lowered in adults, what does this mean? The body can lose hemoglobin for various reasons. This happens most quickly with blood loss - both explicit and hidden. Explicit bleeding occurs with heavy and prolonged menstruation in women (more than five days), various injuries, injuries or operations.

Poor nutrition with insufficient amounts of animal proteins, vitamins and trace elements leads to. Often low hemoglobin occurs in people who promote vegetarianism or are on a diet for a long time. In childhood, anemia develops with an unbalanced or insufficient diet.

Hidden bleeding is possible with some gastrointestinal diseases, pathologies of the female reproductive system (, etc.). Autoimmune diseases, infections or hereditary diseases can lead to a decrease in hemoglobin and a short life of red blood cells.

Consequences

In adults, a decrease in the concentration of hemoglobin leads to the fact that the body does not receive the required amount of oxygen. The general condition of patients is disturbed and the above-described complaints appear.

1. The consequence of this may be a decrease in immunity and, as a result, an increase in the frequency of infectious diseases.
2. In most cases, there is a person's rapid fatigue and constant weakness.
3. can cause deformation in human epithelial tissues - the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract, oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract and the upper protective layers of the skin.
4. Often, anemia causes disorders of the nervous system: irritability, unreasonable mood swings appear, concentration of attention decreases.

In addition, with anemia, there may be such manifestations as cracked lips, severe muscle weakness, hair loss, brittle nails, and an addiction to special odors that other people find unpleasant.

Low hemoglobin during pregnancy

Reduced hemoglobin during pregnancy is a common occurrence for expectant mothers. A significant deviation from the norm can adversely affect the health of both mother and baby. This is fraught with the following complications:

• hypotension of the uterus (decrease in the contractility of its muscles);
• hypoxia (oxygen starvation of the fetus);
• delay, and even cessation of growth and development of the fetus;
• low birth weight;
• disturbances in the work of the respiratory and nervous systems.

In addition, many doctors are sure that a woman’s low hemoglobin during childbirth can negatively affect the health of the child in the future. Such children study poorly at school, often get sick, suffer from various pathologies of internal organs. Therefore, if during pregnancy it is below normal, treatment under the supervision of a doctor is essential.

How to increase hemoglobin?

What to do? In order to increase hemoglobin in the blood, just in case, you need to know the reason for its fall. You can use foods that increase hemoglobin (iron, B vitamins) as much as you like, but if they are not properly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, then success may not be expected.

The main pathogenetic method of therapy is the intake of iron-containing drugs (Heferol, Ferroplex, Ferlatum and others). As a rule, oral forms are prescribed, but in severe cases, drugs are recommended to be administered parenterally. Treatment of patients prone to intestinal dysfunctions involves the parallel administration of enzyme and enveloping preparations.

With good tolerance of the prescribed drugs, they are used in maximum doses, followed by maintenance therapy with a decrease in dosage for several months. At the same time, the level of iron in erythrocytes and blood serum is necessarily monitored. If necessary, vitamin B12, B9 and ascorbic acid are also prescribed. In severe cases resort to transfusion of whole blood or red blood cells.

Iron supplements for low hemoglobin in adults

Drugs to increase hemoglobin are prescribed only by a doctor and, of course, under his strict control. This is due to the presence of side effects after taking medications, among which are: nausea, a feeling of irritability of the stomach, diarrhea, constipation and vomiting.

The following drugs that increase hemoglobin in the blood are very common and popular:

1. Ferro foil;
2. Sorbifer Durules;
3. Ferretab;
4. Ferrum lek;
5. Hemofer drops;
6. totem;
7. Maltofer.

The course of treatment lasts from two weeks to three months. In this case, the visible result occurs after about 2-3 weeks of taking the medication. If there is no ascorbic acid in the composition, then it is necessary to additionally take vitamin C up to 0.3 g per day.

If low hemoglobin is detected and treatment with tablets is prohibited, it is forbidden to drink funds containing calcium at the same time, since they are antagonists. Therefore, it is impossible to drink iron with milk, which is greener than coffee.

Diet

Products that contribute to nutritional therapy for low hemoglobin include:

1. Varieties of red meat - rabbit, beef.
2. White meat chicken.
3. Beef tongue, beef liver.
4. Egg yolks.
5. Seafood, fish.
6. Legumes.
7. Buckwheat and other cereals.
8. Carrots, beets, dark green vegetables.
9. Walnuts.
10. Pomegranate, apples and berries are high in vitamin C.

In no case should you take such a diet with low hemoglobin too literally and switch to proteins alone - it is difficult for the body to absorb all this. Be sure to garnish the meat with vegetables and herbs, and eat wholemeal cereals for breakfast. As an addition to nutrition to increase hemoglobin, it can be advised to drink juices - grape, pomegranate, carrot, beetroot, apple.

At the same time, to improve the absorption of iron, the consumption of dairy products, fatty foods, flour products, green tea and coffee should be minimized.

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Anemia is one of the most common problems in the world. This is due to the fact that a decrease in the level of hemoglobin occurs in a variety of diseases and may have different mechanisms of occurrence. From a medical point of view, anemia is not even a full-fledged independent disease. This is a pathological condition that most often only accompanies the course of other diseases. However, regardless of the cause, all patients with anemia develop similar symptoms. This made it possible to single it out as a separate term.

The problem of increasing hemoglobin in patients with anemia can be solved in different ways. First of all, it depends on the underlying disease. The fact is that not all anemias are treated equally. Making an accurate diagnosis is essential to the successful fight against low hemoglobin. Another important criterion is the general condition of the patient. A slight decrease in hemoglobin may not manifest itself for a long time, and sometimes there is even no need to urgently raise it to a normal level. At the same time, patients with severe anemia should be immediately hospitalized, and their treatment will be more radical.

Signs of low hemoglobin

You can suspect a decrease in hemoglobin if the following symptoms appear:

• dizziness;
• skin pallor;
• muscle weakness;
• cold intolerance;
• cheilitis;
• violations of the heart.

Dizziness

With a slight decrease in hemoglobin, patients may complain of periodic dizziness. It occurs only under the influence of certain external factors - physical activity, overheating, stress. The lower the patient's hemoglobin level, the more severe the symptom. In severe cases, there may be impaired coordination of movements, prolonged headaches, and even periodic loss of consciousness.

Pale skin

In addition to the skin, mucous membranes can also turn pale. It is believed that the most sensitive in this regard is the mucous membrane of the eyes, the conjunctiva. She starts to turn pink as opposed to normal red) when hemoglobin falls to 100 g/l and below. More severe anemias lead to blanching of the oral mucosa, nail bed, and skin folds.

Chronic fatigue

muscle weakness

cold intolerance

The first complaint at a doctor's appointment may be a rapid freezing of the fingertips ( legs and arms), nose, ears. In these areas, blood circulation is the slowest, which is why they freeze faster even in a healthy person. In patients with anemia, oxygen is supplied there very little. If they stay in the cold for a long time, they have an increased risk of frostbite of varying severity.

Sleep disorders

cheilite

Dyspnea

Heart disorders

In general, all of the above symptoms are combined into the concept of "anemic hypoxia". It means precisely the insufficient supply of various tissues with oxygen against the background of low hemoglobin. The severity of the manifestations of this condition directly depends on the severity of anemia. Lower hemoglobin causes more severe symptoms.

However, in many patients with mild anemia, there may be no symptoms of the disease at all. Patients with anemia sometimes live for years without knowing they have any health problems. Reduced hemoglobin is detected by chance during a preventive blood donation or an analysis for another disease. This is because the body has many mechanisms to compensate for anemia. While they work normally, the disease may be asymptomatic. The body's potential to compensate for anemia varies from person to person. Because of this, some people feel almost no discomfort at hemoglobin levels even below 80 g / l ( the norm is 120 - 140 g / l for women and 130 - 160 g / l for men). At the same time, the state of others is seriously affected by the decrease in this indicator already to 100-110 g/l.

In addition to the above symptoms, some patients may have other complaints. Most often, these are manifestations of the underlying disease, which caused anemia. These symptoms are not a direct consequence of low hemoglobin, but are often observed in patients with this problem. Such symptoms can be different, depending on the underlying disease itself. For example, with B12 deficiency anemia, local loss of skin sensitivity is sometimes observed, with hemolytic anemia, the skin may acquire a yellowish tint, and with iron deficiency, patients sometimes suffer from bedwetting. Such symptoms are more valuable in terms of diagnosis. The fact is that the symptoms common to all anemias have low specificity. The same dizziness, weakness or pallor of the skin are very often found in other diseases that have nothing to do with the work of the hematopoietic system and the level of hemoglobin.

Possible Causes of Low Hemoglobin

In general, a decrease in the level of hemoglobin in the blood can occur as follows:

• Blood dilution. In this case, we are talking about a relative drop in the level of hemoglobins, which was already mentioned above. Direct production ( synthesis) hemoglobin in the red bone marrow is not affected by the disease.
• Direct blood loss. One of the most common causes of anemia is bleeding. They can be sharp massive) and chronic ( prolonged loss of blood in small amounts). Red blood cells containing hemoglobin are also lost in the blood. Its concentration in the blood decreases.
• Impaired heme formation. Heme is part of the hemoglobin molecule, which consists of porphyrins and ferrous ion. It is this part that is responsible for the accession and transport of oxygen in the body. Heme ceases to be synthesized with insufficient intake of iron.
• Violation of the synthesis of porphyrins. In this case, heme formation is disrupted due to the absence of porphyrins. The level of iron intake may be normal.
• Disruption of globin synthesis. In addition to heme, the hemoglobin molecule contains a protein part, which is represented by polypeptide chains. Violations of its synthesis are usually associated with genetic pathologies or with a pronounced lack of proteins in the body.
• Violation of DNA synthesis. For the synthesis of DNA molecules in the production of red blood cells, a prerequisite is the presence of a number of substances. The most important of these are vitamin B12 and folic acid. Their insufficient intake or insufficient absorption from food also leads to the development of anemia.
• RBC destruction. Under certain conditions or under the influence of certain substances, red blood cells can be destroyed directly in the vascular bed. This process is called hemolysis. With it, the number of red blood cells in the blood falls, and hemoglobin is released into the blood. Since it can only perform its blood-carrying functions inside red blood cells, the patient develops symptoms and signs of anemia.
• Dysregulation of hematopoiesis ( hematopoiesis) . There are a number of substances in the body that stimulate blood formation. With a lack of these substances, the synthesis of hemoglobin and red blood cells slows down, which leads to the development of anemia. An example of such a substance is erythropoietin. This hormone is produced in the kidneys and directly stimulates the formation and maturation of red blood cells in the red bone marrow. In people with various kidney diseases, erythropoietin may not be produced, which will cause problems with the level of red blood cells and hemoglobin.

A low hemoglobin level can occur with the following diseases and pathological conditions:

• deficiency of certain substances in the diet;
• chronic infectious diseases;
• bone marrow tumors;
• acute poisoning;
• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract ( gastrointestinal tract);

Deficiency of certain substances in the body

As a rule, if the cause of anemia lies in malnutrition, then the hemoglobin level is not greatly reduced ( not less than 70 g / l, and more often - more than 90 g / l). However, the deficiency of certain substances creates a chronic problem. Because of this, hemoglobin falls gradually, the body gets used to it and manages to start all compensatory mechanisms. Thus, patients may not have any symptoms or complaints for a long time.

The most common nutritional problems are:

• lack of iron;
• lack of vitamin B12;
• lack of folic acid;
• lack of proteins.

In advanced cases, it is not enough just to change the diet by increasing the intake of a certain substance. Reserves in the body are restored slowly. Therefore, in addition to a special diet, the patient is often prescribed a course of treatment with appropriate drugs.

chronic infectious diseases

Reduced hemoglobin can occur with the following infectious diseases:

• severe angina;

Bleeding

The second variant of bleeding is more common. We are talking about short recurring episodes of blood loss over a long period of time. In this case, the volume of fluid usually manages to be compensated normally by the body, but the formation of hemoglobin and red blood cells takes a little longer. Because of this, anemia occurs and when appropriate tests are performed, the hemoglobin level will be lowered.

Causes of frequent recurrent bleeding can be:

• heavy menstruation in girls against the background of gynecological diseases;
• single or multiple polyps ( uterus, cervix, intestines and other hollow organs);
• bleeding disorders ( hemophilia, etc.);
• chronic inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• prolonged postoperative bleeding;
• malignant neoplasms.

Bone marrow tumors

Anemia that occurs against the background of bone marrow damage is characterized by a relatively rapid drop in hemoglobin levels and the patient's severe condition. It is very difficult to raise hemoglobin in these cases. Sometimes the only effective treatment is repeated blood transfusions or even a bone marrow transplant. In general, the prognosis depends directly on the type and extent of damage to cellular structures.

Acute poisoning

The most common poisons that destroy red blood cells are:

• aniline dyes;
• hydrogen sulfide and its compounds;
• arsenic;
• lead;
• some snake venoms cobra);
• benzene.

kidney disease

Low hemoglobin can be observed in the following diseases:

• acute and chronic glomerulonephritis;
• autoimmune lesions of the kidney tissue;
• kidney damage as part of systemic infections.

Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract

The following diseases can reduce the level of hemoglobin in the blood by malabsorption in the intestine:

• chronic colitis;
• chronic gastritis ( in the acute stage);
• a number of diseases of the liver and pancreas;
• cirrhosis of the liver;
• neoplasms of the small intestine.

Autoimmune hemolytic anemias

Typically, such anemia is characterized by a strong decrease in the level of red blood cells and hemoglobin. Without suppression of the immune system, it is not possible to carry out adequate treatment, since more and more portions of antibodies are thrown into the blood. To fully restore the level of hemoglobin, complex therapy with the use of various pharmacological preparations is required.

Thus, low hemoglobin can be caused by a wide range of different diseases and disorders in the body. In this case, effective treatment is possible only after establishing the root cause of the disease. Just a blood transfusion or a diet high in iron and other trace elements rarely provide long-term stabilization of the situation.

How to raise hemoglobin if the cause of low hemoglobin is a lack of iron?

With low hemoglobin levels ( 100 or less) drug treatment is prescribed without fail, regardless of whether the patient complies with the necessary diet. Iron preparations are used to restore hemoglobin levels ( salts, oxides and other chemical compounds rich in this element). In these medicines, iron is presented in the most well-absorbed form. If from food ( even at the highest concentration of iron in it) is absorbed no more than 2.5 mg / day, then when taking special iron preparations, it is absorbed 10-15 times more. The course of treatment lasts, as a rule, at least several weeks. The main criterion for evaluating the effectiveness are the normal results of laboratory tests.

Preparations for the medical treatment of iron deficiency anemia

How to raise hemoglobin if the cause of low hemoglobin is a lack of vitamin B12?

Thus, it is not easy to raise hemoglobin with a lack of vitamin B12. To do this, it is necessary to conduct a series of tests and find out what the body really lacks - the vitamin itself in food or the Castle factor. In the first case, it is recommended to follow a diet with the use of foods containing vitamin B12. Often this can eliminate the problem without taking medication. More serious treatment is prescribed in case of severe anemia, when the patient has obvious symptoms of low hemoglobin.

With moderate anemia, as mentioned above, treatment at home is possible. Then you should adhere to the daily intake of vitamin B12 and adapt the diet to the needs of the body. In childhood, this is 0.4 - 1.2 μg of vitamin per day ( for children up to 8 years old). For adults, the norm is 2.4 micrograms per day, and for pregnant and lactating women, it increases to 2.6 - 2.8 micrograms.

Drug treatment is prescribed in cases where the patient suffers from a serious decrease in hemoglobin levels, and the diet cannot help restore it quickly. The drug of choice is cyanocobalamin. It is administered as an injection ( in injections) subcutaneously or intramuscularly. During the first week, high doses are prescribed - 200 - 400 mcg / day. Then the dose is gradually reduced to one injection per week ( 400 mg) and continue such treatment until the normalization of laboratory parameters ( restoration of hemoglobin levels). Allergic reactions can be treated with drugs that suppress the immune system ( prednisolone), or switching to an analogue of cyanocobalamin - hydroxycobalamin. The latter has a weaker therapeutic effect, so the dose is calculated individually by the attending physician. Patients with disorders of the formation of internal factor of Castle are shown periodic courses of injections of vitamin B12 throughout their lives. In this case, it enters the body bypassing the stomach, and its activation is not required.

It is believed that the norm for the use of folic acid is 50 - 200 mcg / day. In this case, the minimum dose is indicated for infants at 1 year of age, and the maximum for an adult. This volume of folic acid is consumed by various body tissues. A significant part goes to the synthesis of red blood cells and the normal production of hemoglobin. In some situations, folic acid begins to be consumed faster, which increases the risk of anemia. The risk group includes patients with various neoplasms, some inflammatory diseases, children in a period of rapid growth, as well as pregnant and lactating women. In these cases, the intake of folic acid increases by 50-100 micrograms.

With a slight decrease in hemoglobin in the blood against the background of a lack of folic acid, it is recommended to pay attention to the diet. This substance is found in products of both plant and animal origin, so it will not be difficult to follow a diet.

For a prophylactic course, doses should be reduced to 0.1 - 0.4 mg / day. The maximum prophylactic dose is recommended during pregnancy. In general, the calculation of the dose and the duration of the course of treatment is determined by the attending physician after making a diagnosis and conducting all the necessary tests. The problem is that the dose is too high. more than what the body needs in a particular situation) inhibits the absorption of folic acid from the intestine. Then there is "satiation" and further treatment will not have the desired effect.

How to raise hemoglobin if the cause of low hemoglobin is protein deficiency?

Patients with anemia due to protein deficiency are usually in serious condition. Even if hemoglobin is not so low, symptoms from other organs and systems are possible ( not only hematopoietic). Therefore, patients are recommended to be hospitalized for the speedy recovery of protein levels. All patients, regardless of severity, must adhere to a special diet.

The diet is focused on foods rich in protein. It should be borne in mind that different products contain different proteins. For example, the chemical composition of fish is different from that of meat proteins. Therefore, food should be varied ( do not eat only 1 - 2 foods that have the highest protein content). Then the body will receive all the necessary set of amino acids, and the hemoglobin level will recover faster. Protein intake rates may vary. For an adult, on average, 75 - 85 g of protein per day is needed. Larger amounts may be needed during pregnancy or certain chronic conditions. It is impossible to accurately establish the norms in this case, since the body itself assimilates the required amount of amino acids, depending on various conditions and factors.

An alternative to a protein diet can be the intake of dietary supplements containing amino acids. Their prophylactic course can contribute to the rapid synthesis of new proteins in the body ( including hemoglobin).

Other ways to increase hemoglobin

Contraindications for blood transfusion may include:

• clotting disorders ( hemocoagulation);

There are also a number of criteria by which a doctor can navigate in order to understand whether a patient needs a blood transfusion. A drop in the hemoglobin level below 70 g/l, accompanied by a general loss of blood ( the volume of circulating blood is reduced by more than 30%). Another indicator is a hematocrit of less than 25%. In rare cases, the indication is the absence of other methods of treatment. For example, in some chronic diseases, blood transfusions are carried out regularly, despite the existing risk.

How to increase hemoglobin folk remedies?

Traditional medicine mainly uses special dietary products, as well as infusions and decoctions rich in vitamin B12, folic acid and iron. Plants that contain a wide range of other micronutrients are also used ( zinc, magnesium, vitamins of other groups). All this creates favorable conditions for the production of hemoglobin.

The most common folk remedies that can help increase hemoglobin are:

• Carrots with sour cream. Daily consumption of carrots in the morning with sour cream or vegetable oil stimulates the production of hemoglobin and red blood cells in the red bone marrow. It is recommended to eat 100 - 150 g of carrots ( can be grated) at a time.
• potato juice. Raw potato juice also stimulates blood formation in the body. It is squeezed out and filtered through clean gauze or a bandage folded several times. After that, the juice is drunk half a cup before meals 2-3 times a day. For a tangible result, the course of treatment should be at least 2 to 3 weeks.
• Nettle decoction. For cooking, the tops of the young shoots of the plant are taken. For 1 liter of water, you need a glass of nettles. They are thrown into boiling water and boiled for 3-5 minutes. After that, the greens are filtered, and the broth is cooled and drunk 1-2 cups a day.
• Infusion of walnuts. Young walnuts crushed ( can be in a blender or meat grinder) and topped with vodka. For 1 glass of nuts, there is approximately 0.5 liters of vodka. They are insisted in a dark place for a week, stirring occasionally. After that, the infusion is filtered and stored in the refrigerator. The infusion is consumed 1 tablespoon once a day. If desired, you can seize with honey.
• Rowan tincture. Freshly picked ripe fruits of mountain ash are poured with boiling water and infused for 1 - 2 hours. For 1 cup of boiling water, you need 2 teaspoons of fruit. Sugar can be added to the tincture to taste. It is taken 2 - 3 times a day for half a cup.
• Infusion of meadow clover. Flower heads are separated from freshly picked meadow clover and poured with boiling water. For 10 flower heads, 200 ml of water is needed. Infusion lasts at least 45 minutes. After that, the infusion is filtered and consumed 2 tablespoons 3-4 times a day.
• Yarrow infusion. For 60 g of dry grass ( collection can be purchased at the pharmacy) you need 200 - 250 ml of boiling water. The mixture is infused for 60 - 90 minutes and consumed 1 teaspoon 2 - 3 times a day.

In parallel with these traditional medicine recipes, attention is paid to the diet. It must necessarily include meat, fresh fruits and vegetables. It is also recommended to eat beef or chicken liver more often ( preferably boiled, not fried), as it contains a large amount of substances necessary for hematopoiesis. Freshly squeezed juices are recommended for drinks. Pomegranate, beetroot and carrot juice have the greatest benefit for low hemoglobin.

All of the above remedies have limited potential for the treatment of anemia. The fact is that they restore only the intake of all the substances necessary for the synthesis of hemoglobin. However, the intestinal mucosa itself can absorb only a certain amount of iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid. Therefore, the course of treatment with these drugs can be long ( weeks, months), and increasing the above dose will not bring a more pronounced effect. Moreover, when the dose is exceeded and some drugs are consumed in large quantities, some side effects may appear. The most common are diarrhea, constipation, flatulence, exacerbation of gastritis or stomach ulcers.

In a number of patients, the level of hemoglobin during the course of treatment may not only not increase, but even fall even more. This indicates problems with the absorption of nutrients in the intestines or diseases of the bone marrow. Then anemia is not associated with a deficiency in the diet of iron or other substances. To increase hemoglobin, such patients should undergo an additional course of examination, during which the true cause of the disease will be established. Treatment with traditional medicine will not have the desired effect.

Symptoms such as dizziness, pallor, chronic fatigue, and sleep disturbances should be a signal to see a doctor. Patients with a hemoglobin level of less than 100 g / l should immediately begin a course of treatment with medications due to the threat of various complications. The use of traditional medicine is possible as an adjuvant therapy, but then it must be agreed with the attending physician.

How to increase hemoglobin during pregnancy?

Based on this, the best way to increase hemoglobin during pregnancy is to increase the intake of substances necessary for hematopoiesis. Even with a normal level of hemoglobin during pregnancy and feeding, expectant mothers are prescribed prophylactic intake of folic acid, vitamin B12, and iron. If we are talking about pathology, and the woman already has signs of anemia, it is urgent to be examined by a specialist. The fact is that a progressive drop in hemoglobin is dangerous, first of all, for a growing fetus.

The Body's Requirements for Essential Nutrients During Pregnancy

For preventive purposes, for increased intake of iron and other nutrients in the body, the following foods can be consumed:

• red meat;
• freshly squeezed fruit juices carrots, pomegranate, etc.);
• spinach;
• seafood;
• liver ( beef, chicken, pork);
• nuts;
• wholemeal bread;
• porridge.

If a woman has a decrease in hemoglobin during pregnancy, a drug course of treatment is usually prescribed. One diet in this case will not correct the situation, because the ability of the intestinal mucosa to absorb, for example, iron from food is limited. Fortunately, these days there is a wide selection of drugs approved for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

For the treatment of anemia of varying severity in pregnant women, the following drugs can be used:

• With B12 deficiency anemia during pregnancy, treatment with cyanocobalamin ( standard for this disease) can be carried out only with the permission of the attending physician and in small doses. This drug may be contraindicated during pregnancy.
• With folic acid deficiency treatment begins with doses of this substance at 0.1 - 0.8 mg / day and increase as needed. Even with a normal hemoglobin level, it is recommended to start maintenance treatment at a dose of 0.1 mg / day and continue it during breastfeeding at 60 mcg / day.

The most common iron preparations in medical practice are:

• tardiferon;
• maltofer;
• sorbifer;
• ferroplex;
• ferrum-lek.

Also, the cause of low hemoglobin can be chronic diseases exacerbated by pregnancy. In these cases, the intake of large amounts of nutrients through food or in the form of special preparations may not be effective. Directed medical treatment will be required to correct the problem. That is why it is strongly recommended when the hemoglobin level drops below 120 g / l ( lower limit of normal for women) undergo a preventive consultation with a doctor to make an accurate diagnosis.

How to increase hemoglobin in oncology?

In oncological diseases, the following mechanisms for lowering hemoglobin are possible:

• Blood loss. In malignant neoplasms, the so-called endophytic tumor growth takes place. This means that dividing cells not only increase in number, but are also capable of destroying nearby tissues. In the later stages, such a tumor can damage the wall of the blood vessel, which often leads to massive bleeding. Red blood cells and the hemoglobin they contain also leave the body with blood. After bleeding stops, patients experience anemia of varying severity. If the hemoglobin level has decreased precisely after bleeding, then attention should be paid to the sufficient intake of all the substances necessary to make up for losses with food. With a severe drop in hemoglobin levels ( below 70 g/l) the patient should be urgently hospitalized. You may need not only an additional course of drug treatment, but also an emergency blood transfusion. The problem is that the malignant growth of the tumor leads to repeated bleeding. Because of this, it is very difficult to fight anemia. Radiation therapy or chemotherapy can slow down the growth of the neoplasm. However, these methods alone cannot be applied in the case of very low hemoglobin.
• Increased need for nutrients. The essence of any oncological disease is that in the human body there is an increased division of certain cells. Such intensive growth requires an appropriate supply of nutrients. Because of this, the body gradually depletes the reserves of folic acid, vitamin B12, iron and other trace elements necessary for the synthesis of hemoglobin. It is noteworthy that this mechanism for the development of anemia is characteristic not only for malignant neoplasms, but also for benign ones, if they grow rapidly. Most often, to increase hemoglobin in this case, you should follow a diet that will replenish depleted reserves. If possible, the tumor is also removed or its growth is slowed down. Hemoglobin levels usually recover within a few weeks.
• Oncological diseases of the bone marrow. Cancer can also develop in the bone marrow. This disrupts the normal division of progenitor cells. These are entire generations of immature cells that have not yet turned into red blood cells or other blood cells. The problem in this case is that the very process of hemoglobin and red blood cell synthesis is disrupted. Patients often have very severe anemia that cannot be corrected by any diet or medication. The body simply cannot turn the substances that have entered into it into the final product - hemoglobin. An effective treatment is radiotherapy or chemotherapy. However, the ultimate success depends on the type of disease and its stage.
• Oncological diseases of the kidneys. In kidney tumors, another mechanism for the development of anemia may be involved. It is associated with insufficient production of erythropoietin. This hormone is produced by the kidneys and stimulates the division of red blood cells and the formation of hemoglobin. In patients with kidney tumors, anemia usually develops gradually. To eliminate it, the use of synthetic analogues of erythropoietin is required. The most common of these are Epobiocrin, Eprex, Epostim. The choice of the drug and the determination of the required dose is made by the attending physician after a special analysis.
• Suppression of hematopoiesis ( blood cell formation) . Many cancer patients undergo aggressive treatments. As a rule, it is chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Both of these methods can seriously affect hematopoiesis ( process of blood cell formation). The division of progenitor cells is disrupted, and the level of the corresponding cells in the blood falls. The problem in this case is not the oncological disease itself, but the side effect of its treatment. Unfortunately, for many patients, such courses of treatment are the only chance to overcome the disease. Therefore, a diet with a high content of substances necessary for hematopoiesis is recommended. Iron, folic acid, vitamin B12 preparations are also prescribed. This allows to some extent to compensate for low hemoglobin and complete the main course of treatment. With irreversible damage to the bone marrow, which are determined by puncture, it is possible to transplant it. This method of treatment has many of its own indications and contraindications, so it is not used in all cases.

The most valuable products for raising hemoglobin levels are:

• red meat. Beef and other red meats contain a significant amount of substances necessary for the formation of red blood cells. 100 g of the product contains up to 4 mg of iron, 3 µg of vitamin B12, 24 g of protein.
• Liver. The liver belongs to meat by-products, but its value is due to the fact that it accumulates a large amount of useful substances that are contained in ordinary meat in smaller quantities. For 100 g of boiled liver, there are approximately 5-15 mg of iron, 15-60 µg of vitamin B12, 200-250 µg of folic acid, 18-20 g of proteins.
• Fresh fruits and vegetables. From vegetables and fruits, freshly squeezed juices of carrots, beets, and pomegranates should be distinguished. They contain a large number of various trace elements. In addition, asparagus and other greens are very high in folic acid ( up to 250 mcg per 100 g of product). As a source of protein, legumes are the most useful ( beans, soybeans, peas).
• Seafood. Fish and other seafood are characterized by a variety of different micronutrients, including those that cannot be obtained from meat or plant foods. Marine fish proteins contain a unique set of amino acids that are also needed by the body.
• nuts. Nuts are an important source of a wide variety of substances. For anemia, peanuts can serve as a source of protein ( up to 25 g per 100 g of product). He is also the champion in the content of folic acid - up to 250 mcg per 100 g.

How to increase hemoglobin in diabetes?

In this case, such a common remedy as a diet rich in iron, folic acid and vitamin B12 does not have the desired effect. Treatment is based on two main postulates. First, you need to lower your blood sugar levels to normal levels. The patient must understand that every hour lived with an elevated glucose level leads to the death of still unaffected areas of the renal tissue. Thus, knocking down sugar by introducing insulin ( or its analogues, which are usually used by the patient), the progression of the disease can be prevented.

The second important component of treatment is a course of erythropoietin. Like most other hormones, it has been artificially synthesized and is now available in a variety of pharmaceutical forms.

Erythropoietin-based drugs

How to increase hemoglobin in children?

The body's need for essential nutrients at different ages

With a decrease in the level of hemoglobin, you should definitely see a doctor to determine the cause of anemia and prescribe treatment. As a rule, a significant decrease in hemoglobin cannot be compensated by a diet rich in certain substances alone. It also requires additional use of special drugs that will make up for their deficiency in the body. To understand if a child has anemia, you need to know how hemoglobin levels change with age.

Age-related changes in the level of hemoglobin and erythrocytes

If the hemoglobin level is lower than the lower limit for the specified age, then treatment requires determining the cause of the disease. In case of deficiency of any substances in the diet, they are administered in the form of medicines. For each of the causes of anemia, their own groups of drugs are prescribed.

Treatment of the main causes of low hemoglobin

It should be remembered that low hemoglobin levels are not always associated with malnutrition. Sometimes anemia is a consequence or complication of other diseases ( worm infestations, chronic infections, etc.). In newborns, they may be due to a congenital lack of enzymes. Since in this case the diagnosis is made for the first time in life, one cannot neglect such a symptom as a decrease in hemoglobin levels. It is necessary to consult a specialist as soon as possible and exclude more serious diseases, even if the symptoms of anemia itself have not yet appeared, and nothing bothers the child. This can prevent serious complications in the future.

How to increase hemoglobin in a nursing mother?

In this regard, all lactating women are advised to adhere to a special diet for preventive purposes. This also applies to those who do not suffer from low hemoglobin. You should focus on the increased needs of the body for nutrients. If hemoglobin, according to the results of the tests, is at a normal level, then it is possible to carry out prophylaxis only with a special diet, without resorting to additional drugs or dietary supplements.

The body's need for various nutrients

If a decrease in hemoglobin is found in a nursing woman, the doses should be increased even more. It is believed that their replenishment with food is almost impossible, since this exceeds the absorption capacity of the intestinal mucosa. Therefore, additional drugs are prescribed to treat anemia during feeding. They contain iron and other substances in a form available to the body, which makes it easier to absorb. In acute or chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract ( gastritis, gastric ulcer, colitis, etc.) it is possible to introduce these substances in the form of injections. Then they enter directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the intestinal mucosa. Similar treatment tactics are recommended for other chronic inflammatory diseases ( dermatitis, psoriasis, rheumatism, etc.). In this case, the problem is that in addition to the formation of milk and hemoglobin, the body is forced to repair damaged tissues, which also consumes nutrients. The rate of their consumption is increasing even more.

Based on the foregoing, it can be concluded that the final therapeutic dose can only be calculated by the attending physician, who is familiar with the patient's medical history. Before prescribing treatment, special laboratory tests should be carried out, which will show exactly which substance is lacking in the body.

To replenish iron stores in a nursing woman, the following drugs can be used:

• Tardyferon. Usually prescribed 1 - 2 tablets per day, depending on how low the hemoglobin level is. The course of treatment lasts at least 3 months.
• Aktiferrin. 1 capsule 1-2 times a day until hemoglobin level normalizes.
• Sorbifer. The prophylactic dose during lactation is 1 tablet per day, and the therapeutic ( in the presence of anemia) - 2 tablets.

If the cause of low hemoglobin is a deficiency of vitamin B12 or folic acid, appropriate drugs are prescribed in the form of tablets or injections. The preferred form of administration and dose is determined by the attending physician, depending on the specific diagnosis.

Regardless of the course of drug treatment, foods rich in the above substances should be included in the diet. This will enhance the healing effect and speed up recovery. In food, these substances are contained in a slightly different form, and therefore complement the treatment.

With low hemoglobin in nursing mothers, the following foods should be preferred:

• Chicken and beef liver. They are a kind of depot in the body of animals, where iron, folic acid and vitamin B12 are stored. Preference should be given to boiled liver, not fried.
• Chicken meat and beef. They also contain large amounts of iron and vitamin B12. Pork in this case is not prohibited ( it is also rich in these substances), but you should still eat lean meats rather. Excess animal fats can affect the taste of milk, and the child will eat less.
• Seafood. Rich in iron and other trace elements. Preference is given to low-fat varieties of fish. The exceptions are crustaceans and mackerel, as they can provoke allergies. They are excluded from the diet.
• Vegetables and fruits. From vegetables and fruits, the body can get a small amount of folic acid and iron. Citrus fruits should be avoided it increases the risk of allergies) and plants that cause increased gas formation ( beans, pears, etc.).
• Bread with bran. If, when eating such bread, the mother and child do not experience flatulence ( increased gas formation), then it is preferred over white and black bread. Bran contains a significant amount of vitamins that stimulate the bone marrow.

Does hematogen increase hemoglobin?

From a medical point of view, hematogen is a stimulant of hematopoiesis ( hematopoiesis), since its use enhances metabolic processes in the red bone marrow and increases the production of blood cells. Hemoglobin that enters the body is not absorbed directly in the intestine. Like any other food, it is exposed to digestive enzymes and broken down into its constituent parts ( carbohydrates into monosaccharides, fats into fatty acids, proteins into amino acids). All these components are individually absorbed into the blood, transformed in the liver and enter the red bone marrow, where they are used for the synthesis of hemoglobin and red blood cells.

The therapeutic effect of hematogen in anemia is due to the high content of the following substances:

• Squirrels. All proteins are made up of specific amino acids. In bovine erythrocytes, from which hematogen is made, the amino acid composition of proteins is very close to that of a human. Due to this, protein components are easily digested and absorbed. 100 g of hematogen contains about 6 g of animal proteins.
• Fats. Animal fats contained in the hematogen, as well as proteins, are very similar in chemical composition to fats in the human body. Because of this, they are of great nutritional value overall. The fat content in the hematogen is approximately 3 g per 100 g of the product. However, fats do not play a direct role in stimulating the work of the bone marrow.
• Carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the main source of energy in the human body. Their share in the hematogen is approximately 75% by weight. Like fats, they do not take part in the synthesis of hemoglobin.
• Iron. This microelement is the most important part of the hematogen. Its content can vary widely, but always remains higher than in any other food. Such a high value is due to the fact that hemoglobin itself contains a large amount of iron. And since the main component in the manufacture of hematogen is bovine erythrocytes, the proportion of iron in it is very high.
• Other vitamins and trace elements. The hematogen also contains a number of fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins that stimulate the bone marrow. Compared to other products, the content of minerals and other trace elements is increased. In this case, it is difficult to specify their exact concentration, since it varies greatly depending on which flavors were used in the preparation.

However, with the independent use of hematogen, one should be careful. The fact is that anemia can be caused not only by iron deficiency, but also by a number of congenital problems or diseases of a different nature. Then the excess iron supplied with the hematogen will not benefit the body. On the contrary, side effects such as nausea or diarrhea may occur.

Based on this, the ideal option for low hemoglobin is the delivery of specific tests. This will determine if there is a deficiency in the body of iron or some other substance that can be replenished by the use of hematogen. The results of the tests should be evaluated by the attending physician ( preferably a hematologist), which will give a final conclusion about the benefits of hematogen for a particular patient. People who do not suffer from anemia, the periodic use of hematogen is not prohibited. On the contrary, it will be regarded as the prevention of low hemoglobin levels. But do not focus only on the use of hematogen. A number of substances that also play an important role in hematopoiesis are found in fresh vegetables and fruits, seafood, and meat. Well, alcohol, for example, on the contrary, inhibits the production of red blood cells. Therefore, the hematogen in anemia is undoubtedly useful, but rather as a component of a balanced diet.

Does pomegranate increase hemoglobin levels?

The fact is that pomegranate contains only a part of the necessary for hematopoiesis ( hematopoiesis) minerals and vitamins. For example, it does not contain vitamin B12, which can be found mainly in animal products. Therefore, in patients with B12-deficiency anemia, its use will not help raise hemoglobin.

Nutritional value of pomegranate fruit

Thus, pomegranate may help raise hemoglobin only in a certain group of patients with low hemoglobin. First of all, these are people with iron deficiency anemia, whose hemoglobin level is not lower than 100 g / l. In this case, the symptoms of the disease are usually mild, and sometimes absent altogether. Iron deficiency in the body is considered moderate and can be corrected through diet. True, such non-drug treatment will last at least several months until the hemoglobin level stabilizes. Pomegranates and pomegranate juice in this case will be only part of the diet. In addition to them, you should also eat red meat, fish, nuts and other foods rich in various vitamins and minerals. Similarly, you can raise the level of hemoglobin after trauma accompanied by bleeding, heavy menstruation or other episodes of blood loss. But if the hemoglobin level falls below 100 g/l, it is still necessary to consult a doctor and supplement the diet with a special course of treatment.

Pomegranates and pomegranate juice will not help restore hemoglobin in the following cases:

• anemia due to vitamin B12 deficiency- since this substance is almost not contained in pomegranates;
• anemia due to protein deficiency- since the pomegranate does not contain protein in sufficient quantities;
• oncological diseases of the hematopoietic system- since they affect the tissues themselves, which normally produce red blood cells and hemoglobin;
• birth defects of enzymes- since the process of hemoglobin synthesis in the red bone marrow is disrupted;
• anemia after surgery on the gastrointestinal tract (gastrointestinal tract) - since the absorption of nutrients in the intestine will be impaired;
• anemia due to chronic diseases- in this case, grenades raise hemoglobin, but without specific treatment of the underlying disease, this measure will be temporary.

How to quickly increase the level of hemoglobin in the blood? Products that increase hemoglobin

Hemoglobin is part of red blood cells. The level of this element is one of the most important indicators of blood composition. A person's well-being and performance depend on its concentration. According to its structure, hemoglobin is a complex protein consisting of two main components:

• Protein directly.
• Gland.

Hemoglobin readily binds to oxygen and transports it to tissues. This is the main function of matter. Even a slight decrease in hemoglobin levels causes a lack of oxygen in the cells, and if the situation does not normalize, negative consequences for the whole organism are inevitable.

Hemoglobin also performs a buffering function. It helps to remove carbon dioxide from the cells in a timely manner, and this allows you to maintain the required level of acidity in the tissues. Deviation of hemoglobin concentration from the norm provokes a significant increase in the load on the respiratory and cardiovascular systems.

No examination is complete without blood tests. This is a mandatory part of the medical protocol. The level of hemoglobin is determined through a complete blood count. If it is necessary to diagnose diabetes mellitus, then a biochemical study is prescribed. It fixes the level of glycated hemoglobin - that part of it that is associated with glucose.

Data on the amount of hemoglobin contain valuable information about the state of human health. Deviation of indicators from the norm gives reason to suspect the development of certain ailments in the body.

The norm of hemoglobin in the blood in women

True, slight deviations are permissible here, determined by the menstrual cycle. Immediately after it, the level of hemoglobin can drop absolutely justifiably: with menstruation, up to 30 milligrams of iron is removed from a woman's blood.

In addition, in professional athletes, an indicator of up to 160 g / liter is not considered critical. In smokers, the content of the substance may be at around 150 g / liter.

The expectation of a child makes its own adjustments to the hemoglobin index. At the same time, it is important:

• How normal is the pregnancy?
• What month is the expectant mother.

In the first and third trimesters of being in an interesting position, it is important that hemoglobin does not fall below 105-110 and does not rise above 150 g / liter.

In the second trimester, the female body undergoes grandiose transformations associated with the formation of the fetus. The volume of blood that flows through the vessels increases by almost half, hemoglobin decreases. However, this will not affect the well-being of either the mother or the unborn child until the indicator drops below 100 g / liter.

On average, an indicator at a level of not less than 110 and not more than 130 g / liter is considered the norm.

Women in position just need to control the hemoglobin content in the blood. After all, if it falls below the norm, then the likelihood of premature birth and loss of the child increases. There may be a delay in the growth of the unborn baby and its development, which can leave an imprint on the health of the newborn.

Recipe for the occasion::

At the level of hemoglobin, age-related changes in a woman are also reflected. More detailed norms of its concentration in the blood are as follows:

• From 15 to 18 years old - 115.0-155.0 g / liter.
• From 19 to 64 years old - 120.0-160.0 g / liter.
• 65 years and older - 117.0-160.0 g / liter.

Such indicators are not critical and are not considered as a pathology. You need to worry when hemoglobin exceeds 160 g / liter.

The norm of hemoglobin in the blood in men

The indicators that are considered the norm for men are slightly higher than for women. The lower hemoglobin value is 140 g / liter - this is the upper limit of the substance level for the fairer sex. This situation is explained simply: men have a hormone called testosterone.

They are considered the strong sex, which means that they are able to endure (and endure) significant physical exertion that requires additional oxygen. Not surprisingly, the male body needs hemoglobin somewhat more than the female. The upper limit of the substance is 160 g / liter.

The specific value of the indicator depends on what the lifestyle of a man is. If he is engaged in intensive sports, hemoglobin is higher, with a sedentary life - lower. In a significant number of men, the content of the substance rises in the morning and decreases after eight in the evening. The level of hemoglobin is higher both among smokers and those who live at high altitudes.

For men who have gone into their sixth decade, a decrease in the indicator to 118-139 g / liter is typical.

As a rule, the output of hemoglobin levels beyond the normal range is not asymptomatic. Deterioration of well-being will force a man to consult a doctor for advice and find out the reasons for what is happening. Carrying out a blood test will help to cope with ailments.

Hemoglobin in children: normal

The norm of hemoglobin in children is a variable value. It is determined by the age of the child. In newborns, hemoglobin is called fetal and is replaced by the usual "adult" by the year.

The first thirty days of a child's life are marked by the highest level of hemoglobin. The normative indicators are as follows (g / liter):

• Day 1-3: 145.0–225.0
• Seven days: 135.0–215.0
• Fourteen days: 125.0–205.0
• Thirty days: 115.0–180.0
• Sixty days: 115.0–140.0
• Three to six months: 110.0–135.0

The specific value of the indicator is influenced by such factors:

• Birth on time. In full-term and healthy babies, hemoglobin is normal. If the child was born at the age of eight months, then, as a rule, the level of the substance is below the established indicator.
• General well-being of the baby. The presence of congenital pathologies or previous diseases will necessarily affect the level of hemoglobin.
• type of feeding. Lucky are those babies whose mothers have breast milk in sufficient quantities. Hemoglobin in such crumbs is almost always within normal limits. If the food consists of infant formula, then the concentration of the substance is often lowered.
• The birth of two or more children - twins, triplets.
• individual inclination. Mom's problems with hemoglobin can be transmitted to the baby.
• Other circumstances: gender of the child, time of year, age in days and months, physical activity.

As the baby grows, the hemoglobin level decreases. This is absolutely normal and corresponds to the natural processes that occur in his body. With the approach of the baby's first birthday, the desired hemoglobin level is in the range of 105-135 g / liter. In order for hemoglobin at this age to be normal, it is necessary:

• Continue breastfeeding.
• Add a balanced diet.
• Give your child vitamin C to help iron be absorbed.
• Walk more.
• Observe the frequency of visits to the pediatrician.

After the first year of life, the normative indicators of hemoglobin are as follows:

Preschool age is marked by the physical and mental development of the child. The lack of hemoglobin carries the danger of slowing down the development of the baby, so this should not be allowed.

In adolescence, children turn into boys and girls. Mental stress and puberty require a full portion of vitamins and minerals. And their deficiency affects the general condition of adolescents, so parents need to make the most of the summer period and saturate the diet of children with fresh vegetables and fruits.

Research shows that during the warm season, unlike the cold winter months, the hemoglobin in children's blood is close to ideal levels.

Deviation from the norm: low hemoglobin

The condition when hemoglobin is outside the lower limit of normal is called iron deficiency anemia. It affects not only the well-being, but also the appearance of a person. Paleness, dry skin, cracks in the corners of the lips, dull hair - all this, along with a significant loss of strength, frequent dizziness, indicates an insufficient supply of iron in the body.

Anemia can be:

• Light - the hemoglobin content is 90.0-120.0 g / liter.
• Average - a substance in the range of 60.0–90.0 g / liter.
• Severe - the level of hemoglobin drops below 60 g / liter.

It is important to consult a doctor in time and determine the causes of anemia. The most common of them are:

• Loss of blood by the body as a result of serious injuries, surgeries, internal bleeding, uterine fibroids.
• Lack of vitamins and amino acids necessary for the formation of hemoglobin. The reason for the deficiency of vitamin C and folic acid is an unbalanced and poor diet. But the lack of vitamin B12 can be triggered by helminthic invasion.
• Wrong nutrition. Its harm is not only that there are not enough useful elements in the diet. An excess of consumption of foods that retain iron absorption also leads to a decrease in hemoglobin levels: cereals, strong coffee and black tea, and chocolate.
• Diseases of the digestive organs: gastritis, colitis, ulcers deplete the gastrointestinal mucosa and interfere with the absorption of iron.
• Prolonged infectious diseases (hepatitis, tuberculosis) or disorders in the immune system lead to premature death of red blood cells and, as a result, a drop in hemoglobin.
• Hypothyroidism. Thyroid hormones regulate the absorption of iron in the intestines. Their insufficient production leads to a lack of hemoglobin.
• Lack of physical activity slows down the flow of blood in the body. The brain receives signals that there are enough red blood cells and there is no need to synthesize them.
• Stress. It affects appetite and general emotional state. This can disrupt metabolic processes.

Causes of increased hemoglobin

An increase in hemoglobin levels above the normative value is no less dangerous than its decrease.

There are two groups of factors that provoke an increase in the content of a substance in the blood:

• Physiological.
• Pathological.

In the first case, hemoglobin rises above the norm due to intense sports or hard physical labor. Long stay in highlands also affects the indicator. The body begins to compensate for the insufficient amount of oxygen by the accelerated production of red blood cells. Exceeding the norm is, as a rule, 15-25 g / liter and does not need medical intervention.

If physiological factors are absent, and hemoglobin is elevated, then this may be a symptom of such ailments:

• Heart disease.
• Diabetes.
• Cardiopulmonary insufficiency.
• Intestinal obstruction.

Critical is the increase in hemoglobin to 180-190 g / liter. Delivery of oxygen to the tissues is difficult, blood viscosity increases, blood circulation processes are disturbed, thromboembolism (blockage of blood vessels) develops. This is very dangerous and requires immediate treatment.

In order not to bring the state of the body to a critical level, it is necessary to periodically undergo an examination, which also involves the delivery of a blood test. Everyone knows that prevention is a great way to avoid many problems and prevent illnesses.

Hemoglobin performs the most important function in the body - it ensures the delivery of oxygen to tissues and organs. This iron-containing protein, which is part of, stains blood cells red and saturates the blood with oxygen.

The amount of hemoglobin in the blood must be stable in order for the body to fully perform its functions. With insufficient hemoglobin content in the blood, the cells are not fully saturated with oxygen. As a result, the functions and metabolism in the body are disturbed. Various reasons contribute to this.

Everyone should know what is the normal level of hemoglobin in the blood. This indicator depends on the gender and age of the person, as well as the state of health.

To find out the level of hemoglobin, you should pass. Many do not know if the result is normal or not. The level of hemoglobin in women should average 120-140 g / liter. For girls from 12 to 18 years old, the normal rate is 120-160 g / liter, from 18 to 60 years old 130-170 g / liter. In the elderly over 60 years, the hemoglobin level should be 117-138 g / liter.

During the month, this figure may change due to menstruation. Therefore, donating blood before and after menstruation is undesirable, as the result will be incorrect.

If hemoglobin is lowered or increased, then this indicates problems in the body. This is especially true for women. It is important that the level of iron-containing remains normal, otherwise it may affect the reproductive system.

If the results showed a decrease in hemoglobin in the blood, then the reasons are as follows:

• Pregnancy
• Avitaminosis
• Bleeding
• Rigid
• Worm infestations
• Unbalanced diet
• hereditary predisposition

Various diseases can indicate a decrease in the concentration of hemoglobin in the blood: dysbacteriosis, hypoglycemia, pneumonia, tuberculosis, autoimmune diseases, etc. Due to insufficient oxygen supply, the functions of human organs are disrupted. This mainly affects the functioning of the central nervous system and the brain.

The rapid destruction of erythrocytes occurs with hematological pathologies, as a result, there is a violation of the synthesis of iron-containing protein.

During the period of colds and acute viral diseases, the level of hemoglobin decreases. Usually, after recovery, this indicator is restored.

With various blood losses in both men and women, there is a decrease in iron-containing protein in. Hemoglobin decreases especially rapidly in acute bleeding in a short period of time. This can happen with ectopic, surgical intervention, trauma. Chronic bleeding is observed in gynecological diseases, frequent nosebleeds, heavy menstruation, varicose veins of the rectum.

More information on how to treat anemia can be found in the video.

During a strict diet, with improper nutrition, the body does not receive enough substances necessary for its normal functioning. With a lack of animal products in the diet, the concentration of hemoglobin in the blood decreases.

Stressful situations, excessive physical activity can also cause a decrease in hemoglobin.

One of the reasons for the decrease in hemoglobin is the presence of worms in the body. They consume large amounts of the vitamin responsible for the absorption of iron.

Causes of a decrease in iron-containing protein in the blood in children:

• preterm birth
• Hereditary diseases (spherocytosis)
• Fast growth
• Folic acid and vitamin B12 deficiency

When breastfeeding, iron in the baby's body may come in insufficient quantities. To avoid this, during breastfeeding, all the necessary nutrients and elements must be present in the diet of a young mother.In children, hemoglobin is low with an unbalanced diet or insufficient intake of iron, vitamins and minerals.

Symptoms

The main signs that indicate iron deficiency in the body can be divided into 2 groups: asthenic and dystrophic.

Asthenic signs include:

• Weakness
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Lowering blood pressure
• Tachycardia
• fainting
• Insomnia

Dystrophic signs associated with a decrease in hemoglobin in the blood include:

• Paleness and dryness of the skin
• bright red tongue
• Cracks in the lips
• Hair loss
• Brittle nails

Also, the body temperature slightly rises, yellowish enamel appears on the teeth, a violation of smell and taste is possible.

Insufficient supply of oxygen to the brain cells leads to a decrease in efficiency, memory, attention. Immunity is also weakened, convulsions appear. Anemia is to some extent associated with heart failure, ventricular disease of the heart. With reduced immunity, tearfulness, lethargy, irritability are observed.

Symptoms of iron deficiency anemia at the initial stage are usually mild or do not appear at all.

If some of the above occur, then you should immediately consult a doctor and take the appropriate tests.

reduced hemoglobin is to eliminate the cause that provoked its occurrence: bleeding, treatment of diseases, etc.

At a low concentration of iron in the blood, iron preparations are prescribed (Sorbifer, Maltofer, Totem, etc.). Normally, you need to consume iron 100-300 mg. If the drug is well tolerated, then at the initial stage of treatment it is recommended to use the maximum dose. After hemoglobin returns to normal, treatment is still continued, but with a lower dose. The course of treatment is usually 2 to 4 months.

In order to prevent in the middle of the year, iron preparations are recommended to be taken 2-3 times. At the same time, 40-60 mg of iron are prescribed per day.

It is important to know that an increase in hemoglobin occurs only a month after the start of treatment.

Way to increase hemoglobin:

• With a lack of vitamin B12 and associated anemia, a course of injections of vitamin B12 is prescribed. The dose per day is 300-500 mcg. After the main course of treatment, injections are administered for another 2-3 months.
• It is possible to increase hemoglobin not only with drugs. In many cases, the effect is given by folk remedies. In order for hemoglobin to return to normal, it is recommended to use grated carrots with sour cream or olive oil.
• An excellent way to increase iron is buckwheat with kefir. The recipe for making a folk remedy is quite simple: pour buckwheat into a glass and pour kefir over it. Leave it in this state overnight. You can take buckwheat with kefir the very next day. You can add some honey to improve the taste.
• Pomegranate is one of the fruits that contains a large amount of iron. To maintain normal hemoglobin levels, eating pomegranate seeds alone is not enough. It is recommended to pass the pomegranate through a meat grinder along with the peel. The resulting juice will be much healthier.
• Hemoglobin can be increased with a mixture of dried fruits. You will need the following ingredients: dried apricots, walnuts, raisins, honey. Mix dried fruits in equal quantities and grind. Then add honey and mix again. Every day you need to eat 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture.
• Natural, juice mixes also help to increase hemoglobin. Preference should be given to carrot, beetroot, cranberry and apple juices. It is necessary to mix juices in equal proportions and drink throughout the day.
• Carrot juice with milk gives a good result. Mix half a glass of fresh carrot juice with boiling milk. Drink in the morning every day 2 hours before meals. Take until hemoglobin returns to normal.
• Rosehip infusion is an excellent remedy for increasing hemoglobin. Pour boiling water over the fruits and leave for a while so that the tea is infused. Then add a teaspoon of honey. This tool will not only raise hemoglobin, but also strengthen the immune system.

Nutrition for anemia

With iron deficiency anemia, you need to reconsider your diet. The menu should contain products containing iron.

These products include:

• Meat offal (kidneys, tongue, liver, beef, veal, horse meat, etc.)
• Various types of cereals
• Eggs
• Vegetables and greens (carrots, beets, pumpkin, spinach, cabbage, etc.)
• Seafood
• Fruits and berries
• natural juices
• Dried fruits

Of the berries, preference should be given to blackcurrant and chokeberry. If you use them throughout the year, then there will be no problems with hemoglobin.

A high content of iron is noted in products of animal origin.

In order for iron to be well absorbed in the body, it is necessary to reduce the consumption of dairy products and black tea.It is impossible to eat only proteins with low hemoglobin, since the body will not absorb them. Be sure to add vegetables or herbs to such dishes. For breakfast, it is better to eat porridge.

When compiling the menu, the need for a daily dose of iron should be taken into account:

• Children under 6 years old need 10 mg of iron, children under 13 years old - 15 mg.
• P The daily iron requirement for adults is 18 mg.
• Pregnant and lactating women should consume at least 20 mg of iron per day.

If the cause of low hemoglobin is vitamin B12 deficiency, then it can be replenished by eating cottage cheese, cheeses, beef, fish.

Decreased hemoglobin during pregnancy

The concentration of iron in the body decreases due to hormonal disorders, diseases of the internal organs. This can be affected by late or multiple pregnancy, early severe toxicosis.

If the concentration of hemoglobin in the blood is below average during pregnancy, then this can lead to various complications.

Most often, against the background of reduced hemoglobin, the following pathological conditions occur:

• The contractility of the muscles of the uterus decreases.
• Oxygen starvation of the fetus occurs.
• Delay in fetal development.
• At birth, fetal weight is below normal.
• Some deviations in the development of the child.
• Respiratory and nervous system disorders.

Anemia during pregnancy threatens not only the mother, but also the baby. The circulatory system of the fetus is directly connected with the circulatory system of the mother. Therefore, blood that is not enriched with oxygen enters the child. This increases the risk of developing intrauterine diseases.If hemoglobin decreases before 20 weeks and has an indicator of 100 g / liter, then we can talk about the development of anemia. Before this period, there is a physiological decrease in iron content in the blood.

With anemia, a pregnant woman has a desire to eat chalk or sand, she likes the smell of gasoline, varnish, paint, shoe polish, etc. If a pregnant woman began to notice such symptoms, then she must undergo an examination without fail.

To raise the level of hemoglobin in the blood, during pregnancy, you must follow a special diet and take iron supplements.

The course and dose of the drug for each woman is selected individually. Medicines are taken orally or injected intramuscularly. To better absorb iron, you should limit the intake of fatty foods and dairy products.

For preventive purposes, in order to prevent the development of anemia, it is recommended to take and control the level of hemoglobin in a timely manner. You also need to watch your diet. It must be balanced and rational.