How to Increase Hemoglobin Naturally

There are many different kinds of anemia. Both cancer and the treatment for cancer can cause aplastic anemia, where one’s body cannot make enough red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, or hemoglobin.  

As mentioned in a previous post, there are natural ways to help increase one’s red blood cell count. This starts with giving your body the necessary ingredients for red blood cell production, including vitamins B6, B9 (folate), B12, iron, and copper. 

This is also true with hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Oxygen strongly binds to iron, so an increase in iron can raise one’s hemoglobin level. If your hemoglobin is low, it’s a good idea to ask your doctor to test your iron, ferritin (stored iron), TIBC (total iron binding capacity), and iron saturation levels in order to determine exactly how much iron you need. As a functional medicine doctor, my target lab values for each are as follows:

        Iron - 100

        Ferritin - 100

        TIBC - 350

        Iron Saturation - 35-40%

Too much iron can cause toxicity in the body so it’s important to have your levels checked before starting on an iron supplement. Also, some iron supplements can cause GI upset, nausea, and constipation.  Here’s one I use in my practice that I strongly recommend. It's highly absorbable and (generally) does not have any side effects, Thorne Advanced Iron Complex.

In addition, here is a list of foods that are high in iron. 

• Red meat (beef, lamb)

• Poultry (chicken, turkey)

• Seafood (oysters, clams, tuna, shrimp)

• Legumes (lentils, chickpeas, beans)

• Dark leafy green vegetables (spinach, kale, escarole, collard greens)

It’s also important to consume foods that are high in vitamin B12 and B9 (Folate), as they help with red blood cell production.

Foods High in Vitamin B12:

• Shellfish (clams, mussels, crab)

• Fish (salmon, trout, tuna)

• Meat (beef, lamb)

• Poultry (chicken, turkey)

• Eggs

• Fortified plant-based milk alternatives (like almond, cashew, macadamia, and coconut milk

Foods High in Vitamin B9 (Folate): 

• Dark leafy green vegetables 

• Asparagus

• Broccoli

• Legumes

• Beans (lentil, black bean, kidney bean)

• Avocado

• Citrus fruits (orange, lemon, lime) Avoid grapefruit as it may interact with medications.

• Fortified cereals and bread

Finally, it's worth noting that consuming foods rich in vitamin C along with iron-rich foods can enhance iron absorption. Additionally, avoid consuming foods that may inhibit iron absorption, such as tea, coffee, and calcium-rich foods, during or immediately after meals.

While iron supplements and diet can help increase hemoglobin levels, it's always best to consult with your personal healthcare providers for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized advice.