Hemoglobin is a protein found in the red blood cells, which are responsible for carrying oxygen to the rest of the body. During pregnancy, a woman’s hemoglobin levels should be optimum to ensure a proper supply of oxygen. To increase hemoglobin levels during pregnancy, follow a healthy diet throughout the pregnancy and engage in moderate exercise as advised by your physician. Ensure that you derive proper nourishment from the foods you eat. Also, get your hemoglobin levels checked by your doctor regularly.
Low levels of hemoglobin may lead to anaemia and even high levels of hemoglobin are unhealthy. Hence, maintaining proper levels of hemoglobin during pregnancy is essential for the health of the mother and the baby. According to the World Health Organization, the hemoglobin levels in pregnant women should be more than 11g/dl in the first and third trimester of pregnancy, and more than 10.5g/dl in the second trimester of pregnancy. Low levels of hemoglobin during pregnancy are likely to be associated with low birth weight and preterm birth.
If your hemoglobin is below the ideal levels, you need an infusion of iron-rich foods in your diet. Remember that you need 27 mg of iron in a day during pregnancy. Include foods like:
Another way to increase your hemoglobin levels naturally during pregnancy is to exercise. When you exercise, your body produces more hemoglobin to meet the increasing demand for oxygen that your body needs. But make sure you avoid high-intensity workouts during pregnancy for the risk of injury, and engage in moderate-intensity workouts instead and that too after prior consultation with your doctor. Doing pranayamas can also improve your hemoglobin count.
Avoid iron blockers in your diet to prevent your hemoglobin levels from dropping. If your hemoglobin count is low, avoid foods, beverages, and drinks that block your body’s capacity to absorb iron. Quit drinking tea, coffee, soft drinks, beer, and wine immediately.
Were your hemoglobin levels in pregnancy low? How did you improve them? Do share your experience with us in the comments section and any suggestions that you might have. We’d love to hear from you!
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Priya Jacob, Bangalore.
Here are 7 natural Ways to increase hemoglobin
Sapna Kulkarni, Mumbai.
According to the World Health Organization, the hemoglobin levels in pregnant women should be more than 11g/dl in the first and third trimester, and more than 10.5g/dl in the second trimester.
Poonam Jha, Jamshedpur.
When iron levels are low, the red blood cells are unable to carry oxygen to the body's tissues. Although it is normal to experience mild anaemia during pregnancy due to increased blood volume, severe anaemia may put you and your baby at risk of premature delivery and low birth weight.
Monisha Lamba, New Delhi.
Foods to avoid include: