It’s no secret that eating well is important. It can help you stay healthy, feel good, and look great!
Your diet has the power to impact your hemoglobin count, which affects how much energy you have, how well you sleep at night, and even your mood (among other things). What’s more, is that there are many different ways for someone with a low hemoglobin count to improve their diet. Read on for some helpful tips!
What is Hemoglobin, and why should I care about it?
Hemoglobin is a protein and an essential part of the red blood cells which carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of your body. You’ll need more hemoglobin if you’re pregnant or working out – whether it’s at the gym, on a team sport, or just walking to work.
What are foods high in iron?
Foods high in iron will help you increase hemoglobin levels. Iron is an important nutrient for people who have low levels of hemoglobin because it helps deliver oxygen to all parts of your body. Iron can be found in many different types of foods, such as spinach, beans, and lentils (and other non-heme sources), lean meat and poultry that has been cooked without adding extra fat, and more.
How can I get more protein into my diet?
If you don’t eat meat or other high-protein foods, you’ll want to get creative to add protein to your diet. Beans are a great option, as well as nuts and seeds, eggs, and tofu. If you’re pregnant, it’s especially important that you get the protein you need.
What foods are to avoid?
High-sodium (salt) foods like processed meats, chips, pretzels, and soy sauce should be avoided. It’s also important that you stay away from caffeine in coffee or tea or in hot chocolate or cocoa mix since this can also cause constriction of blood vessels.
How can I get enough vitamin D every day?
You can get vitamin D by spending time outside in the sun since ultraviolet rays are an important source of this nutrient for your body. If you don’t have access to direct sunlight or don’t spend time outdoors, then use sunscreen with SPF 30+, wear long pants and long sleeves, and avoid direct exposure between 10 AM and 4 PM.
What are some foods I should avoid if I have a low hemoglobin count?
Some foods should be avoided to help you get your hemoglobin levels up. Foods like liver and kidney may increase the levels of iron in the blood (which is not always good). It’s also important that you avoid excess caffeine because it can also cause constriction of blood vessels.
Frequently Asked Questions about Food and a Low Hemoglobin Count:
Q: What happens to my body if I have a low hemoglobin count?
A: Some symptoms of having a low hemoglobin count can be tiredness, dizziness or light-headedness, rapid heartbeat, and shortness of breath. If you experience any of these symptoms, you’ll need to see a doctor determine if you have a low hemoglobin count and what the cause might be.
Q: Why do I need iron?
A: If your body doesn’t get enough iron, it can’t produce as many red blood cells as your body needs for good health. This means that oxygen may not reach all parts of your body.
Q: What are the best food sources of iron?
A: There are various healthy food sources that contain iron. Some examples include spinach, beans, and lentils (and other non-heme sources), lean meat and poultry that has been cooked without adding extra fat, and more.
