Low hemoglobin, also known as iron deficiency anemia, is a condition where red blood cells lack sufficient of it. Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that is responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the body’s tissues. When its level is low, tissues don’t get enough oxygen, which can lead to various health problems.
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Signs of Low Hemoglobin
Low hemoglobin can lead to several unpleasant symptoms that negatively affect a person’s well-being and quality of life. Here are some of them.
- Fatigue. This is one of the most common symptoms. A low level means that not enough oxygen is reaching the body’s tissues, causing constant fatigue.
- Pale Skin. The skin and mucous membranes may become pale due to a lack of oxygen.
- Shortness of Breath. Shortness of breath may occur during physical activities or even at rest, as the body requires more oxygen.
- Dizziness. A lack of oxygen can cause dizziness, and in some cases, fainting.
- Rapid Heartbeat. The heart beats faster in an attempt to deliver more oxygen to the tissues.
- Headache. A lack of oxygen can cause headaches.
- Cold Hands and Feet. Poor circulation can make your hands and feet feel cold to the touch.
- Muscle Weakness. Muscles may feel weak due to a lack of oxygen.
- Difficulty Concentrating. Oxygen deficiency can negatively affect cognitive function.
Other Possible Symptoms of Low Hemoglobin
- Cracks at the corners of the mouth;
- Dry skin and hair;
- Brittle nails;
- Loss of appetite;
- Sleep disturbances;
- Chills;
- Lowered immunity.
It’s important to remember that these symptoms may indicate not only low hemoglobin but also other medical conditions. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a doctor for an examination and an accurate diagnosis if you experience these symptoms.
Increased Hemoglobin in the Blood – Watch the Video
If you’re interested in the causes and effects of high hemoglobin, check out this YouTube video:
Causes of Low Hemoglobin
Low hemoglobin is a condition where their content in red blood cells is below normal. Several factors can cause it levels to drop. Here are some of them:
- Iron Deficiency. This is the most common cause and can result from an unbalanced diet, chronic bleeding, or impaired iron absorption from food.
- Folic Acid Deficiency. This vitamin is necessary for red blood cell production. Its deficiency can result from an unbalanced diet, chronic illnesses, or certain medications.
- Vitamin B12 Deficiency. This vitamin is also essential for red blood cell production. Its deficiency may occur due to unbalanced diets, chronic gastrointestinal diseases, or certain medications.
- Bleeding. Acute or chronic blood loss can lead to a decrease in levels.
- Chronic Disease. Some chronic illnesses, such as arthritis, cancer, or kidney failure, can cause hemoglobin levels to drop.
- Certain Medications. Some medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, can lead to a decrease in levels.

Treatment for low hemoglobin depends on the cause. In some cases, taking iron, folic acid, or vitamin B12 supplements may be sufficient. In other cases, more specific treatments, such as blood transfusions or surgery, may be required.
Foods That Help Boost Hemoglobin Levels
Iron is a vital micronutrient needed for many bodily functions, including oxygen transport, energy production, and DNA synthesis. There are two types of iron you can get from food: heme and non-heme iron.

- Heme iron is found in animal products such as meat, poultry, fish, and seafood. It is part of the hemoglobin molecule, which transports oxygen in red blood cells. Heme iron is much easier for the body to absorb than non-heme iron, with a bioavailability of about 15-35%.
- Non-heme iron is found in plant-based foods such as legumes, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and iron-fortified products. This type of iron is not bound to hemoglobin, and its bioavailability is significantly lower – only 2-20%.
The absorption of non-heme iron can be influenced by various factors. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and other organic acids enhance its absorption, while phytates (in legumes, nuts) and tannins (in tea) may inhibit it.
The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of iron for women is 18 mg/day, while for men it is 8 mg/day. Vegetarians and vegans are advised to consume 1.8 times more than the RDA to meet their iron needs.
As you can see, there are two types of foods that positively affect it levels:
1. Foods Rich in Heme Iron
- Red meat – beef, veal, lamb;
- Liver – beef, chicken;
- Seafood – mussels, oysters, scallops;
- Eggs.
2. Foods Rich in Non-Heme Iron
- Legumes – beans, lentils, peas;
- Leafy greens – spinach, broccoli, parsley;
- Dried fruits – prunes, dried apricots, raisins;
- Nuts – walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts;
- Grains – buckwheat, oatmeal, millet;
- Vegetables – beets, carrots, tomatoes.
Final Thougths
Low hemoglobin, or iron deficiency anemia, can significantly impact your life. Fatigue, shortness of breath, pale skin, and other symptoms can greatly reduce your productivity and quality of life.
Fortunately, this issue can be resolved. Changes in diet, iron supplements, and treatment of any underlying condition, if present, can help normalize your hemoglobin levels and improve your well-being.
Questions & Answers About Hemoglobin
Low hemoglobin in the blood (anemia) means that the blood cannot deliver enough oxygen to organs and tissues, which can lead to fatigue, weakness, and other health problems.
Causes of low hemoglobin include iron deficiency, vitamin B12 and folic acid deficiencies, blood loss, chronic diseases, and genetic disorders.
Iron-rich foods, such as red meat, poultry, fish, spinach, broccoli, nuts, seeds, and grains, help increase hemoglobin levels.
Iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid are the primary nutrients necessary for hemoglobin synthesis.