What To Eat To Have Normal Hemoglobin Levels
To avoid anemia, it is necessary to maintain normal levels of hemoglobin in the blood. For this, there are foods that can help us obtain all the nutrients we need.
Next we are going to detail some healthy options, but first we are going to talk to you before about this vital protein for the functioning of the body.
What is hemoglobin?
The hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells. Its function is to transfer oxygen from the lungs to the tissues, and carbon dioxide (CO2) from the tissues to the lungs.
Hemoglobin levels are different in men and women. In adult males, normal levels are 13.8 or 14 g / dl. However, in women they are 12.1 or 15 g / dl. For its part, in a pregnant woman hemoglobin levels should be at or above 11.0 g / dl.
In addition, in children the values vary according to age. In them, it is very important that the levels are adequate for their growth:
- Children 6 months to 4 years: 11 g / dl
- From 5 to 12 years: 11.5 g / dl
- Ages 12-15: 12.0 g / dl or more.
Hemoglobin and anemia
Hemoglobin is the basic reference for the diagnosis of anemia. When its values are below the established parameters, we speak of anemia. Also, the lack of this protein is related to the lack of iron. So low hemoglobin levels can mean iron deficiency anemia (lack of iron).
On the other hand, hemoglobin is what gives blood its red color. Since its function is important for the body, its levels must be kept stable.
To know and control hemoglobin levels, a hemogram is performed that allows measuring all the components of the blood. Be careful, it is not good to have high hemoglobin levels either; this could cause severe damage.
Levels of this protein depend on good nutrition and regular exercise. However, these are not the only factors that can alter hemoglobin levels.
What happens when the level is low?
When hemoglobin is low, something is not right with your health. Therefore, it is common for the person to experience discomfort and some difficulty in carrying out their routine. Among the most common causes are the following:
- Anemia.
- Radiotherapy.
- Heavy menstruation.
- Leukemia and other types of cancer.
- Iron deficiency (due to iron deficiency anemia). It can be due to a poor absorption of iron or an inadequate diet.
Symptoms that people with low hemoglobin have
- Fatigue.
- Dizziness
- Weakness.
- Tiredness.
- Pale skin.
- Shaking chills.
- Hypersomnia
- Irritability.
- Headache.
- Weightloss.
- Irregular heartbeat
- Difficulty breathing.
- Difficult to focus.
What Happens When Hemoglobin Levels Are High?
When we have high levels we must be alert, since it can be an indication of the presence of another pathology. Here are some of the possible causes:
- Meningitis.
- Smoking
- Dehydration
- Heart problems.
- Brain tumors.
- Lung problems.
- Use of some medications.
- Stroke, which causes a stroke or stroke.