Foods That Increase Your Hemoglobin Levels

The Importance of Hemoglobin

Hemoglobin is the protein responsible for the transportation of oxygen to your body’s cells. A deficiency in Iron, among other factors like pregnancy and liver problems (to name a few), can lead to a drop in your hemoglobin levels.

Eat foods rich in Iron

Iron is a key element in the production of Hemoglobin. Add iron-rich foods like Spinach (Palak), Cabbages, Green Beans and Red meats, as well as Chicken (Breast and Liver) to get your required dose of iron.

Eat foods rich in Folates

Folates are essential B-Vitamins that help in the development of your Red Blood Cells. A deficiency of folates in your diet can lead to Anemia. Add dark leafy greens (Spinach), beans (Kidney Beans/ Rajma, Black-eyed peas/ Lobhia) and nuts (peanuts) to improve your hemoglobin levels.

Eat foods rich in Vitamin C

It's important to ensure that your body retains all the Iron you consume. You can give your body’s iron absorption abilities a helping hand by adding Vitamin-C rich foods (like citrus fruits and berries) to your diet.

Eat foods rich in Vitamin A

Beta Carotene and Vitamin A can also improve your body’s iron absorption abilities. They are easily available in everyday foods. Supplement your diet with foods like fish, liver and brightly coloured vegetables like capsicum and carrots to get your dose of Vitamin A and Beta Carotene.

Look out for foods that interfere with Iron Absorption

Foods that are rich in Calcium and Phytic Acid have been known to interfere with your body's ability to absorb Iron. It is therefore important to avoid consuming large quantities of Calcium rich foods like dairy products, Soya as well as seeds like Sesame that are rich in Phytic acid if you are facing issues like low hemoglobin due to poor iron absorption.

Dr. Vaibhav K Gupta Senior Consultant