How to increase hemoglobin levels fast: Home remedies

Low hemoglobin levels can sometimes signal hidden health issues, such as anemia or even certain cancers. However, the right foods and supplements may offer a natural boost, helping you support your hemoglobin levels from the comfort of home.

Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells. It is responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body.

When hemoglobin levels drop too low, it can be a sign of anemia—a condition where the body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells, or they aren’t functioning properly. This lack of oxygen can lead to serious health risks over time.

It estimated that around 3 million people in the United States of America have some type of anemia.

In this article, we discuss hemoglobin levels, natural ways to increase them, and most common causes of anemia.

How to increase hemoglobin levels

Several methods can help boost hemoglobin levels at home:

Increase iron intake

Iron deficiency anemia is the most common form of anemia.

Iron plays an important role to boost the production of hemoglobin, which also results in production of more red blood cells. Low iron levels can result in low levels of blood cells, which can cause problems with oxygen circulation throughout the body.

For those with low hemoglobin, iron-rich foods can make a significant difference. Consider adding these options to your diet:

• Meat, fish, and poultry
• Organ meats (like liver)
• Beans and legumes
• Eggs
• Leafy greens (such as kale and broccoli)
• Nuts and seeds

Increase Folate Intake  

Folate is a type of B vitamin, and is crucial for hemoglobin production. The body uses folate to create heme, a component of hemoglobin that helps carry oxygen.

Without sufficient folate, red blood cells may not fully mature, potentially leading to folate-deficiency anemia and low hemoglobin levels.

Here are some great folate sources to include in your diet:

• Spinach and leafy greens
• Beans (such as kidney beans)
• Peanuts
• Fruits
• Whole grains
• Sunflower seeds
• Eggs

Additionally, folic acid supplements can help boost folate levels. The body absorbs about 85% of folate from supplements, compared to around 50% from foods, so talk to a healthcare provider to find the right supplement for you.

Consider Iron Supplements  

For those with significantly low hemoglobin, a doctor may recommend iron supplements to help raise iron levels over time.

These supplements gradually boost the body’s iron, typically showing effects within a few weeks, though they may be advised for several months to build up iron reserves.

It’s essential to be cautious with iron intake, as too much can be harmful. Excessive iron can lead to hemochromatosis, which may result in liver disease and cause side effects like constipation, nausea, and vomiting.

The recommended dosage varies depending on a person’s current iron levels, so it’s important to follow a doctor’s guidance closely.

Avoid Iron Blockers

Certain foods, such as coffee, tea, cola, and alcohol, act as iron blockers and should be avoided if you have low hemoglobin levels.

Maintain Regular Exercise

Daily exercise, including jogging, walking, swimming, dancing, and cycling, can increase red blood cell count and hemoglobin levels.

Exercise causes adaptations in oxygen binding in the blood, leading to increased hemoglobin levels.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water promotes blood flow and keeps blood vessels supple, aiding in the transportation of oxygen by red blood cells.

Normal hemoglobin ranges

 

Category	Normal (g/dL)	Low (g/dL)
Male	13.5 – 18	Lower than 13.5
Female	12 – 15	Lower than 12
Children	11 – 16	Lower than 11

 

It is important to note that appropriate hemoglobin levels may vary. Anyone concerned about hemoglobin levels should speak with a doctor.

Causes

Low hemoglobin levels, often resulting in a condition called anemia, can be caused by various factors. Here are some common reasons for low hemoglobin levels:

• Iron deficiency
• Vitamin deficiencies (such as B12 and folate)
• Chronic diseases
• Blood loss
• Hemolysis
• Chronic illnesses
• Bone marrow disorders
• Genetic factors
• Pregnancy
• Dietary factors

Symptoms

Recognizing the signs of low hemoglobin, or anemia, is essential for timely intervention and management. When hemoglobin levels fall below normal, individuals may experience a variety of symptoms. Such as:

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Pale skin
• Cold hands and feet
• Headaches
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
• Chest pain
• Difficulty concentrating or cognitive impairment
• Brittle nails
• Cravings for non-food items (pica), such as ice or dirt
• Increased susceptibility to infections
• Restless legs syndrome
• Hair loss or thinning
• Leg cramps
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice) in severe cases.

Frequently asked questions

Here are some common question about low hemoglobin levels.

What drink raises hemoglobin?

To increase hemoglobin levels naturally, you can consume drinks that are rich in iron, vitamin C, folate and other nutrients essential for red blood cell production. Such as:

• Beetroot Juice
• Pomegranate Juice
• Spinach Smoothies
• Apple and Date Shake
• Nettle Tea
• Blackstrap Molasses Drink
• Green Vegetable Juices
• Citrus Fruit Juices

How can I raise hemoglobin quickly?

For severe low hemoglobin or anemia, hospital treatment may be necessary to quickly increase red blood cell levels. Options can include:

• Blood transfusion
• Bone marrow transplant
• Surgery to stop internal bleeding

How long does it take to raise hemoglobin levels?

The time varies by method.  Dietary changes and iron supplements may show effects over several weeks, while medication and in-hospital treatments may work more quickly.

Can a person raise hemoglobin in 1 week?

Dietary changes and iron supplements can raise hemoglobin gradually over several weeks. For quicker results, healthcare professionals may suggest medication or in-hospital treatments like a blood transfusion or bone marrow transplant.

Summary

Many people can improve hemoglobin levels with dietary changes and supplements. It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for the correct supplement dosage.

If levels remain low, additional treatments like a blood transfusion may be necessary.