Serum iron. Iron in the blood, the norm, what does the change in indicators indicate? How to raise iron in the blood folk remedies To raise iron in the body

One of the main elements of hemoglobin is iron, which is directly involved in the reaction of blood formation. It is of great importance for a person. Low or elevated iron in the blood causes the development of pathologies. It is important to know what this means for the body.

Role and norm

This element enters the body together with products. After the iron is absorbed in the intestines, it enters the bloodstream. Excesses are deposited in the liver, bone marrow and spleen if they have not been used by the body, since they are not excreted naturally. Most of the iron (60-70%) is present in hemoglobin, but this is not the same thing.

Its main functions:

  • maintaining normal level cholesterol;
  • participation in hematopoiesis;
  • transport of oxygen in the body;
  • preventing the development of anemia;
  • aid in the production of hormones thyroid gland affecting exchange reactions.

Iron regulates redox processes, supports immunity, promotes the synthesis of myoglobin protein, which is involved in muscle contraction.

In the blood, the normal number of the element is:

  • for men - 11-30 µmol/l;
  • for women - 9-30 µmol/l;

The norm of iron in children varies depending on age: in newborns - 17-45 µmol / l, up to two years - 7-8 µmol / l, older than two years - at the level of adults.

The average daily normal intake of iron in an adult is 20-25 mg. This is how much the body needs for normal functioning.

Required tests

Determine iron levels with biochemical analysis blood. The study is carried out in the case of:

  • existing suspicion of intoxication of the body with iron-containing drugs;
  • infectious diseases;
  • pathologies of the digestive system;
  • monitoring the effectiveness of treatment.

Blood sampling is carried out in the morning, on an empty stomach. On the eve of the test, it is recommended to refrain from eating for 12 hours, avoid heavy physical and emotional stress, and do not smoke for 2-3 hours.

Elevated symptoms

The optimal amount of metal in the human body is 4-5 grams, but sometimes its level changes. An increased iron content is less common than its deficiency, but the consequences are more severe.

With an excess of this element, a person experiences the following sensations:

  • fatigue, headache, dizziness;
  • heartburn, nausea, accompanied by vomiting, disruption of the gastrointestinal tract;
  • itching on the body;
  • weight loss, lack of appetite.

In addition, there is a risk of developing diabetes, arthritis, atherosclerosis, diseases of the cardiovascular system, infections, liver pathologies. On the palms, in the armpits, unnatural pigmentation occurs, the liver enlarges.

When such symptoms appear, an analysis is prescribed to determine the composition of the blood and identify diseases that provoke pathology.

Reasons for high values

It is often found that there is a lot of iron in the blood if a person uncontrollably takes various multivitamins and preparations with a high content of it.

Sometimes this leads to drinking water, excessive consumption of iron-containing foods. But the main reasons for high element level are somatic diseases and genetic disorders.

  1. With dysfunction of the gene responsible for metabolism with the presence of Fe, it is not absorbed in the body, and excess iron accumulates in organs and tissues. In such a case, primary hemochromatosis is diagnosed - genetic disease. With this pathology, the liver, heart muscle, spleen, pancreas are affected, which causes the development severe forms heart failure, edema, liver cirrhosis, diabetes mellitus, joint diseases.
  2. Kidney damage, such as nephritis, impairs the utilization of blood elements, and they remain in the plasma, gradually breaking down and releasing iron.
  3. Acute and chronic form hepatitis, in which there is a large amount of bilirubin in the blood.
  4. - a disease that is inherited when the synthesis of dimeric hemoglobin is replaced by tetrameric.

  • hemolytic type - due to the accelerated breakdown of red blood cells, hemoglobin enters the blood, a high level is detected in the analyzes serum iron;
  • aplastic type, which is possible in violation of the formation of red blood cells and other blood components due to the intake of certain drugs, poisoning chemicals, x-ray exposure, infectious diseases;
  • anemia due to vitamin B12 deficiency, which happens after cutting out part of the stomach for any reason.

Anemia is possible due to a lack of vitamin B6, which disrupts the formation of porphyrins.

Blood transfusion and alcohol abuse can also increase the level of metal in the blood.

Consequences of excess iron

If the iron norm is exceeded, this indicates the development of any diseases and dysfunctions in the body, for example:

  • about the lack of vitamins B6, B12, folic acid;
  • about the presence of anemia of any type;
  • about poisoning the body with products containing an excessive amount of Fe.

An excess of iron is possible if its excretion from the body is impaired, for example, in acute or chronic hepatitis.

In adults

An excess of iron is dangerous with the following consequences:

  • there is a risk of developing liver diseases, most often cirrhosis, which can cause oncological processes;
  • diseases of the pancreas, increased blood sugar, and as a result - diabetes;
  • problems in the work of the cardiovascular system, because excess iron provokes heart failure.

Many people report frequent mood swings, incomprehensible fatigue and weakness. In addition, in adults, sexual activity decreases, problems with reproductive function appear. Men may be at risk of developing impotence, women may experience failures menstrual cycle.

Excess iron during pregnancy negatively affects the body of the mother and child. Through the placenta, the metal enters the baby, but its amount is not regulated, so iron poisoning is possible for both the mother and the baby.

If the necessary measures are not taken in a timely manner, this will adversely affect the development of the organs of the gastrointestinal system, heart, and muscular system.

In children

A high level of Fe in the blood has negative consequences for children. The child may have such manifestations as delayed development and puberty, poor growth. In addition, there is a risk of the same pathologies as in adults.

Normalization and prevention

As a result of the high content of iron, there are detrimental effects on the body. Men at any age, children, women during menopause are at particular risk. Most often, this problem does not threaten donors who constantly donate blood.

In order to avoid the negative impact on the body of a large amount of this element, it is necessary to periodically determine its level. If necessary, the doctor will give recommendations on how to reduce iron.

For example, what medications to take, to follow a certain diet. In the absence of contraindications, you can become a donor.

Food

It is necessary to revise the principles of nutrition and include in the menu products that help reduce metal, for example:

  • rice groats well removes excess trace elements, including iron;
  • dairy and sour-milk products containing calcium in large quantities, since its excess interferes with the absorption of the metal.

It is possible to lower the level of iron by reducing the diet of foods high in vitamin C and B vitamins that promote the absorption of Fe.

Do not eat together protein and vegetables or fruits rich in them. For example, you do not need to eat an apple or citrus for dessert if the main course was meat.

Medications

With a chronic increase in iron, its deposition in the organs, special preparations are prescribed. Usually, doctors prescribe hepatoprotectors, zinc-containing agents, heptapeptides, and complexing agents.

They help reduce the amount of metal calcium thetacin, desferal (deferoxamine), which binds iron.

If the poisoning of the element is severe, exchange blood transfusion is used when it is simultaneously taken from the patient and donor transfusion.

Folk methods

Hirudotherapy is often recommended as a folk remedy that normalizes iron content. Leeches, sucking blood, reduce the amount of this metal.

At home, you can use the mummy, using it for a 10-day course of 0.2 grams during the day. At the end of the reception, take a break for 5-7 days, then resume treatment.

If a high iron content is found in a blood test, then treatment (traditional or folk remedies) should be started only after consulting a doctor.

The role of chemical elements in the human body is very large. Despite the fact that their number is very scanty, without them the normal functioning of all organs and systems would be impossible. Often, after passing the tests, patients hear the conclusion of a specialist that the hemoglobin level is low and needs to be increased. Hemoglobin is an iron-containing protein responsible for the transport of oxygen through human tissues and organs. That is why, when it comes to low hemoglobin levels, doctors prescribe iron supplements. The question of how to increase iron in the blood is relevant for many people. It is important to remember that any treatment should be discussed with the doctor and be competent, this will help prevent complications and achieve the best results.

Why does the body need iron?

Iron in the human body is found in red blood cells, muscle fibers, red bone marrow, and liver cells. Its content is low, but the functions performed by this trace element are irreplaceable.

Iron in the body performs the following role:

  • normalizes the condition of the dermis, nails, hair;
  • helps in the absorption of certain medications;
  • prevents anemia;
  • provides metabolic and oxidative processes in the body;
  • improves immunity;
  • stimulates the process of blood formation;
  • acts as a catalyst for many vital processes;
  • transports oxygen to human tissues and organs.

Iron is an essential trace element responsible for many processes in the human body.

To maintain the level of the microelement, children and adults need to replenish iron stores in the body daily. A child needs to consume at least 8-9 mg, adult men - 10 mg, women - from 18 to 20 mg of iron. An increase in the dose of a microelement for women is explained by blood loss during menstruation and during pregnancy.

Important! Not only iron deficiency can harm a person, but also its excess. The established maximum dose for an adult cannot exceed 50 milligrams per day.

Signs of iron deficiency

Iron deficiency negatively affects a person's well-being. This is due to a decrease in oxygen saturation of the body. Patients note the appearance of fatigue, loss of efficiency and many other unpleasant symptoms. Considering that an excess of a microelement is just as dangerous as its deficiency, before starting treatment, one should clearly make sure that there is an iron deficiency. The following symptoms indicate this condition:

  • dizziness;
  • broken state even after sleep;
  • the appearance of chronic fatigue;
  • shortness of breath, shortness of breath;
  • pallor skin;
  • violation of the menstrual cycle in women;
  • diseases endocrine system;
  • frequent colds;
  • decrease in metabolic processes;
  • anemia.

If the above symptoms appear, you should go to the hospital, take an analysis for iron levels. The doctor will prescribe necessary drugs choose a diet.

Why there is a shortage

Low iron levels are caused by many factors. The causes of micronutrient deficiency are as follows:

  • unbalanced diet;
  • diseases of the hematopoietic system;
  • stress, emotional overstrain;
  • diets for weight loss;
  • intestinal absorption of iron.


The cause of iron deficiency is often malnutrition

Iron is poorly absorbed by the intestinal walls in gastritis, ulcers, dysbacteriosis and other diseases. Anemia (lack of hemoglobin in the blood) often develops against a background of iron deficiency. There are a lot of causes of the disease, regardless of them, when a problem appears, it is important to start timely treatment.

After passing the analysis, the doctor may prescribe drug therapy in the form of pharmaceutical preparations that increase the level of iron in the blood.

Popular iron supplements:

  • Totem is a drug for normalizing the level of iron in anemia in children, women in position, the elderly. Contraindications include the presence of an allergy to the components of the drug;
  • Ferroplex is a Hungarian remedy designed to increase the level of iron and folic acid. When planning pregnancy or during it, the medicine should be taken strictly according to the doctor's prescription. The drug is prohibited for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, ulcers, colitis, gastritis, diverticulosis and other pathologies;
  • Hemofer - increases the level of iron and the general immunity of a person. Allowed remedy during pregnancy, lactation. Admission among children and adolescents is allowed after consultation with a doctor. Among side effects note blanching of the skin, nausea, bloody stools, pain in the stomach. Negative consequences occur extremely rarely;
  • Globiron is an anti-anemic agent in the form of capsules. The drug is prescribed for patients with iron deficiency anemia, patients with bleeding, after surgery. Globiron is used among adults and children over three years old;
  • Tardiferon is a French-made medicine, often used to restore blood loss during internal bleeding, after childbirth and in some other conditions. Rarely during treatment with the drug are observed allergic manifestations, short-term staining of tooth enamel, violation of the stool;
  • Fenyuls is a remedy in the form of capsules, which includes many useful trace elements (fructose, ascorbic and folic acid, ferrous sulfate).

Important! Many medications have contraindications. Medications should be taken strictly according to the doctor's prescription.

Features of nutrition in anemia


To prevent anemia, it is important to saturate the diet with iron-containing foods.

  • meat - chicken, turkey, lean pork, beef, lamb, all types of liver. When choosing meat, you should pay attention to its color, the darker the product, the more iron it contains;
  • vegetables, fruits, greens - broccoli, corn, beets, spinach, asparagus, lentils, beans;
  • seafood - mussels, clams, oysters, red, black caviar;
  • eggs - quail, ostrich, chicken. This product, in addition to iron, contains magnesium and useful fatty acids;
  • cereals - oatmeal, barley, buckwheat, bran;
  • fruits - pomegranate, apples, persimmons, plums;
  • dried fruits - figs, prunes, dried apricots;
  • nuts - all kinds.

To raise the level of iron, you can follow the following dietary recommendations:

  • If there is little iron in the blood, it is important to correctly combine dishes. You can not take food rich in iron with dairy products.
  • Immediately after a meal or shortly before a meal, you should stop drinking coffee, tea.
  • You can increase the absorption of iron by taking vitamin C along with iron-containing foods.
  • For patients suffering from anemia, it is useful to drink daily a large number of red wine. The drink not only replenishes iron stores, but also promotes the renewal of blood cells.
  • Green tea is better. You should not refuse black, but you should not brew a drink that is too strong.
  • If iron in the body is reduced, Special attention should pay attention to the water used. The best option will become mineral water containing a large amount of trace elements.
  • Teas containing medicinal herbs and berries (rose hips, mountain ash, currants and others).


Rose hips are a good source of iron, vitamin C and many other essential micronutrients.

With iron deficiency, it is important not only to saturate the diet with foods containing the microelement, but also to limit dishes that prevent its absorption. These include:

  • hard cheese, cottage cheese, milk;
  • all types of chocolate;
  • strong tea, coffee, cocoa;
  • wheat flour bread;
  • condensed milk and some others.

They should not be completely excluded from the diet. It is only important to limit their number, especially during meals rich in the necessary metal.

What to consider when preparing meals

If the level of iron in the blood is reduced, it is important not only to select the right foods, but also to cook them correctly. So that food does not lose its useful properties you should follow simple rules of cooking. Porridges and soups are recommended to be cooked in cast-iron cookware with a thick bottom. It is believed that such dishes increase the iron content in ready meals by 15 - 20%. Fruits and vegetables are best consumed in fresh. The absence of heat treatment will save the maximum amount useful substances. The peel should not be peeled, it contains a higher metal content than the pulp. You can not cook food longer than the prescribed period. This reduces their usefulness.

Fans of milk porridges should boil them in water, add milk after cooking. Another important rule- limiting the amount of salt in the diet. Its excess leads to disruption of the absorption of beneficial trace elements. Greens should be added to dishes fresh.

Using folk recipes

When the level of iron in the body is lower than expected, supporters of traditional medicine recommend using recipes based on natural products. Their use should be discussed with your doctor. The specialist will give the necessary advice, help prevent side effects.


To increase the level of iron in the blood, it is recommended to take tea from clover inflorescences.

Iron Boost Recipes:

  1. clover flower tea. Both fresh and dry inflorescences are suitable for the preparation of the product. A tablespoon of the product is poured with a glass of boiling water, insisted for at least 30 minutes. After the drink has cooled, it is filtered, taken one third of a glass three times a day before meals;
  2. collection of herbs. To prepare the medicine, you need to take 2 tbsp. l. St. John's wort and a spoonful of plantain. A spoonful of the mixture is poured with 250 ml of boiling water, left to brew for 2-3 hours. Take the remedy three times during the day, 10 ml before meals. The course is 30 days;
  3. Nettle tea is an excellent remedy for iron deficiency. To prepare a drink, a tablespoon of herbs is poured with a glass of boiling water, insisted for 20-30 minutes, taken warm with the addition of sugar or honey;
  4. mountain ash and wild rose for anemia. The berries are mixed in equal amounts (a tablespoon), placed in a thermos, pour 500 ml of boiling water. After 2 hours the drink is ready. You can take instead of tea, adding honey or sugar to taste.
  5. a large amount of metal is found in dill and parsley. To restore the level of iron in the blood, mix a tablespoon of dried herbs, pour a liter of boiling water, insist for an hour. Take a drink throughout the day instead of tea.

Important! If during treatment a person's condition worsens, side effects occur, you should immediately stop therapy, consult a doctor.

Iron is an essential trace element for every human being. Its deficiency negatively affects the general well-being and quality of life of the patient. Attentive attitude to one's health, timely treatment of various diseases, adherence to a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle life will help prevent iron deficiency and other health problems.

The general condition of the body directly depends on how correctly the cardiovascular and circulatory system. These are key factors that ensure the proper functioning of all other organs and systems of the body, including brain activity.

A worn-out cardiovascular system, which does not fully cope with the performance of its functions, contributes to the appearance of deficiencies in the process of hematopoiesis, deviation of the blood composition from normal values, thereby depressing the state of the body, which, in turn, leads to even worse heart function.

In addition to the functionality performed by the heart, the blood composition is also important. In order to provide the organs of the body with sufficient nutrition, the blood must contain certain substances in the right proportions, in particular iron.

According to research, the concentration of iron in the blood can be effectively adjusted by changing the diet.

In this article, we will discuss the function and rate of iron in human blood, as well as provide a list of the most effective advice about how to increase its level in the body.

Functions and norm of iron in the blood

The function of iron in the body is diverse. On the one hand, iron is involved in the synthesis of collagen, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), in the formation of immune and enzymatic reactions.

In addition, it is one of the most important proteins for human life. Hemoglobin supplies oxygen to tissues and removes carbon dioxide.

  1. through clinical analysis capillary blood;
  2. by analyzing the binding ability of blood serum based on the analysis of venous blood;
  3. by analyzing the level of iron in serum;
  4. others.

The established norms for the content of iron for different groups assume that they correspond to it. So, for children, women (including during pregnancy) and men, the following norm values ​​\u200b\u200bare established:

Iron levels are affected by a wide range of factors. This is a way of life, and bad habits, and a genetic hereditary predisposition, and a reduced ability of the body to absorb and store iron. However, ceteris paribus, nutrition has the most significant impact.

Signs of deficiency

Among external symptoms iron deficiency is worth highlighting:

  1. fragility and dryness of hair, nails;
  2. "blue" lips;
  3. unnatural pallor of the skin;
  4. frequent shortness of breath with minor physical exertion;
  5. weight problems;
  6. , headaches, dizziness, migraine.

5 nutrition rules to increase it

In order to quickly restore and maintain the level of iron in the blood at an acceptable level for health, it is important to establish an appropriate diet. What does it mean?

  1. Firstly, when drawing up a diet, it is important to take into account the time and number of meals during the day. It is important to eat at the same time every day. This leads to a significant improvement in the degree of absorption of nutrients by the body;
  2. Secondly, it is necessary to take into account recommendations for the distribution during the day of nutrients for daily maintenance of health and activity;
  3. Thirdly, it is necessary to include in the diet those foods whose consumption contributes to an increase in the level of ferritin with its deficiency;
  4. Fourth, it is worth excluding those foods whose consumption lowers the level of iron in the blood;
  5. And finally, you should definitely take into account all the specific individual needs of the body and possible contraindications.

4 groups of the most important products

When choosing foods that increase iron in the blood, you should pay attention to the way the animal is raised. The health of the meat guarantees natural fattening without the use of antibiotics and other substances that are dangerous and harmful to the body. What products are most useful? Pay attention, first of all, to the following list:

1. Meat and poultry

Iron is found in large quantities in poultry,. From meat, preference should be given to veal, beef, lamb, lamb, lean pork.

From poultry: chicken, turkey, duck and guinea fowl. Liver is also useful: beef, pork, turkey, cod liver, etc.

2. Fish, seafood, seaweed

Iron is also found in large quantities in: fish, shellfish, caviar, etc. The most useful are salmon and sturgeon and their caviar, tuna, sardines, herring.

From shellfish: mussels, shrimps, oysters and rapana.

From algae, attention should be paid to kelp and fucus.

3. Cereals

. Moreover, not the classic, but the so-called "green buckwheat" is more useful.

In addition, it is tastier, and the method of its preparation implies the preservation of a greater number of useful substances. You should also pay attention to oatmeal, barley and rye.

4. Vegetables, greens, fruits, berries, nuts

Useful fresh seasonal, greens, fruits, berries, including spinach, broccoli, beans, lentils, pomegranates, plums, pear, apple, pineapple, feijoa, mango, peaches, raspberries, blueberries, gooseberries, mulberry (mulberry tree).

Also huge. Nuts must be present in the diet, as they are involved in critical processes and have a universal tonic effect on the body.

In addition, it is worth eating and. The latter are perfect in winter as a substitute for seasonal fresh fruits.

Also take a look at the table

Folk remedies

In case of severe iron deficiency, in addition to dietary adjustments, the doctor may prescribe drug treatment. This does not mean that there is no need for the corresponding diet above. Proper nutrition in any case will play an important role in recovery and maintaining a healthy state.

How else can you raise iron in the blood without pills? It may be effective to turn to proven folk remedies. Among them:

Freshly squeezed juices and their combinations:

  1. beets-carrots;
  2. cranberry apple;
  3. carrot;
  4. apple-lemon-beet-carrot;

Infusions, decoctions, as well as their combinations:

  1. St. John's Wort-Clover-Lamb White-Blackberry Leaves (one tablespoon of each ingredient per 200 ml of boiling water) - leave for half an hour, drink 30-50 ml per day (course - a month);
  2. wild rose-rowan (three tablespoons of each berry per 200 ml of boiling water) - leave for 10-20 minutes, take 100 ml before meals three times a day;
  3. lungwort (two tablespoons per 200 ml of boiling water) - leave for 20 minutes, take half a spoon on an empty stomach;
  4. wild rose - honey - as a healing tea.

Before deciding on the use of one or more of the above methods, be sure to consult with the supervising general practitioner. In some cases, home methods may not be enough. Then the doctor will prescribe certain pills and medications.

What lowers it?

In addition to including foods that stimulate an increase in serum iron in the diet, it is also important to exclude foods that reduce it.

These include primarily the following:

  1. fast food and junk food - fatty, very salty food, fried in copious amounts of oil;
  2. snacks and snacks with the addition of preservatives - chips, crackers lead to the depletion of nutrients in the body;
  3. soda (sweet) - leads to leaching of useful substances, contains phosphates;
  4. containing calcium in large quantities (milk and products based on it);
  5. containing phytates (primarily bread and a variety of beans);
  6. soy and;
  7. tannins (tea, coffee, persimmon).

Useful video

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Conclusion

So, human body is an inextricably linked system. Problems of cardio-vascular system both cause and predetermine at the same time a general deterioration in the state of health. Comprehensive measures are also required to improve the situation, including:

  1. rejection bad habits(primarily from the consumption of junk food, excessive amounts of alcohol, coffee and smoking);
  2. improvement of the local environmental situation;
  3. active life;
  4. limited, not overly intense physical exercise, including, if possible, outdoors;
  5. improving diet and nutrition;
  6. consumption of sufficient clean water.

It is comprehensive measures, combined with taking responsibility for one's own health, that can prolong life and improve its quality.

11/11/2018 Iron in the human body is found in erythrocytes, muscle fibers, red bone marrow, liver cells. Its content is low, but the functions performed by this trace element are irreplaceable.

Iron in the body performs the following role:
- normalizes the condition of the dermis, nails, hair;
- helps in the assimilation of certain medications;
- prevents anemia;
- provides metabolic and oxidative processes in the body;
- increases immunity;
- stimulates the process of blood formation;
- acts as a catalyst for many vital processes;
- transports oxygen to human tissues and organs.

Iron is an essential trace element responsible for many processes in the human body.

To maintain the level of the microelement, children and adults need to replenish iron stores in the body daily. A child needs to consume at least 8-9 mg, adult men - 10 mg, women - from 18 to 20 mg of iron. An increase in the dose of a microelement for women is explained by blood loss during menstruation and during pregnancy.

Signs of iron deficiency
Iron deficiency negatively affects a person's well-being. This is due to a decrease in oxygen saturation of the body. Patients note the appearance of fatigue, loss of efficiency and many other unpleasant symptoms. Considering that an excess of a microelement is just as dangerous as its deficiency, before starting treatment, one should clearly make sure that there is an iron deficiency. The following symptoms indicate this condition:
dizziness;
broken state even after sleep;
the appearance of chronic fatigue, weakness;
shortness of breath, shortness of breath;
pallor of the skin;
violation of the menstrual cycle in women;
diseases of the endocrine system;
frequent colds;
decrease in metabolic processes;
anemia.
cracks appear in the corners of the mouth;
health worsens;
the skin dries and turns yellow;
nails begin to peel and break;
hair becomes dry and brittle, becomes thinner and begins to fall out.
These symptoms are familiar to many women, but we are accustomed to blaming stress, depression, hard work, and even poor ecology for it. Since many of us do not know what leads to such a state of the body reduced level iron in the blood, which is an important indicator and often leads to hypochromic anemia, which is very dangerous for health. Therefore, it simply needs to be controlled and if it goes down, increase it to normal. That is, if you begin to experience the above symptoms for no reason, then we advise you not to delay over time and go to a hospital or clinic, take an analysis for iron levels. The doctor will prescribe the necessary drugs, select a diet. the main thing is the right integrated approach.

You can increase the level of hemoglobin, both folk remedies and medicines. Before increasing iron in the blood medicines try some foods first (more on that later in this article)

Why is there a deficit?
Low iron levels are caused by many factors. The causes of micronutrient deficiency are as follows:

Unbalanced diet;
diseases of the hematopoietic system;
stress, emotional overstrain;
diets for weight loss;
intestinal absorption of iron.
An unhealthy diet is often the cause of iron deficiency.

Iron is poorly absorbed by the intestinal walls in gastritis, ulcers, dysbacteriosis and other diseases. Anemia (lack of hemoglobin in the blood) often develops against a background of iron deficiency. There are a lot of causes of the disease, regardless of them, when a problem appears, it is important to start timely treatment.

Popular iron supplements:

Totem is a drug for normalizing the level of iron in anemia in children, pregnant women, and the elderly. Contraindications include the presence of an allergy to the components of the drug;
Ferroplex is a Hungarian remedy designed to increase the level of iron and folic acid. When planning pregnancy or during it, the medicine should be taken strictly according to the doctor's prescription. The drug is prohibited for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, ulcers, colitis, gastritis, diverticulosis and other pathologies;
Hemofer - increases the level of iron and the general immunity of a person. Allowed remedy during pregnancy, lactation. Admission among children and adolescents is allowed after consultation with a doctor. Side effects include blanching of the skin, nausea, bloody stools, and pain in the stomach. Negative consequences are extremely rare;
Globiron is an anti-anemic agent in the form of capsules. The drug is prescribed for patients with iron deficiency anemia, for patients with bleeding, after surgery. Globiron is used among adults and children over three years old;
Tardiferon is a French-made medicine, often used to restore blood loss during internal bleeding, after childbirth and in some other conditions. Rarely, during treatment with the drug, allergic manifestations, short-term staining of tooth enamel, stool disorders are observed;
Fenyuls is a remedy in the form of capsules, which includes many useful trace elements (fructose, ascorbic and folic acid, ferrous sulfate).
Features of nutrition in anemia
Low iron levels in the blood can be corrected with proper nutrition. First of all, it is worth abandoning a variety of diets, as they contribute to a decrease in the trace element in the body. Nutrition should be balanced, healthy, exclude junk food, alcohol.

To prevent anemia, it is important to saturate the diet with iron-containing foods.

Meat - chicken, turkey, lean pork, beef, lamb, all types of liver. When choosing meat, you should pay attention to its color, the darker the product, the more iron it contains;
vegetables, fruits, greens - broccoli, corn, beets, spinach, asparagus, lentils, beans;
seafood - mussels, clams, oysters, red, black caviar;
eggs - quail, ostrich, chicken. This product, in addition to iron, contains magnesium and useful fatty acids;
cereals - oatmeal, barley, buckwheat, bran;
fruits - pomegranate, apples, persimmons, plums;
dried fruits - figs, prunes, dried apricots;
nuts - all kinds.
To raise the level of iron, you can follow the following dietary recommendations:

If there is little iron in the blood, it is important to correctly combine dishes. You can not take food rich in iron with dairy products.
Immediately after a meal or shortly before a meal, you should stop drinking coffee, tea.
You can increase the absorption of iron by taking vitamin C along with iron-containing foods.
For patients suffering from anemia, it is useful to drink a small amount of red wine daily. The drink not only replenishes iron stores, but also promotes the renewal of blood cells.
Green tea is better. You should not refuse black, but you should not brew a drink that is too strong.
If the iron in the body is reduced, special attention should be paid to the water consumed. The best option would be mineral water containing a large amount of trace elements.
Teas containing medicinal herbs and berries (rose hips, mountain ash, currants and others) will be useful.
Rose hips are a good source of iron, vitamin C and many other essential micronutrients.

With iron deficiency, it is important not only to saturate the diet with foods containing the microelement, but also to limit dishes that prevent its absorption. These include:

Hard cheese, cottage cheese, milk;
all types of chocolate;
strong tea, coffee, cocoa;
wheat flour bread;
condensed milk and some others.
They should not be completely excluded from the diet. It is only important to limit their number, especially during meals rich in the necessary metal.

What to consider when preparing meals
If the level of iron in the blood is reduced, it is important not only to select the right foods, but also to cook them correctly. In order for food not to lose its beneficial properties, you should follow simple cooking rules. Porridges and soups are recommended to be cooked in cast-iron cookware with a thick bottom. It is believed that such dishes increase the iron content in ready meals by 15 - 20%. Fruits and vegetables are best eaten fresh. The absence of heat treatment will save the maximum amount of nutrients. The peel should not be peeled, it contains a higher metal content than the pulp. You can not cook food longer than the prescribed period. This reduces their usefulness.

Fans of milk porridges should boil them in water, add milk after cooking. Another important rule is limiting the amount of salt in the diet. Its excess leads to disruption of the absorption of beneficial trace elements. Greens should be added to dishes fresh.

Usage folk recipes
When the level of iron in the body is lower than expected, supporters of traditional medicine recommend using recipes based on natural products. Their use should be discussed with your doctor. The specialist will give the necessary advice, help prevent side effects.

Iron Boost Recipes:

Clover flower tea. Both fresh and dry inflorescences are suitable for the preparation of the product. A tablespoon of the product is poured with a glass of boiling water, insisted for at least 30 minutes. After the drink has cooled, it is filtered, taken one third of a glass three times a day before meals;
collection of herbs. To prepare the medicine, you need to take 2 tbsp. l. St. John's wort and a spoonful of plantain. A spoonful of the mixture is poured with 250 ml of boiling water, left to brew for 2-3 hours. Take the remedy three times during the day, 10 ml before meals. The course is 30 days;
Nettle tea is an excellent remedy for iron deficiency. To prepare a drink, a tablespoon of herbs is poured with a glass of boiling water, infused for minutes, taken warm with the addition of sugar or honey;
mountain ash and wild rose for anemia. The berries are mixed in equal amounts (a tablespoon), placed in a thermos, pour 500 ml of boiling water. After 2 hours the drink is ready. You can take instead of tea, adding honey or sugar to taste.
a large amount of metal is found in dill and parsley. To restore the level of iron in the blood, mix a tablespoon of dried herbs, pour a liter of boiling water, insist for an hour. Take a drink throughout the day instead of tea.

To increase iron in the blood and prevent anemia, it is recommended to include in food:

Dried fruits;
muesli;
fresh greens;
apples and natural juices;
oatmeal and buckwheat;
Rye bread.

To increase the level of iron in the blood, it is recommended, along with iron-containing foods, to introduce foods that contain a high content of vitamin C into the diet. With its help, the iron contained in cereals, vegetables, nuts and fruits will be better absorbed by the body. And if you drink a glass of orange juice after a meal, then the absorption of iron can double.

Do not exclude foods containing heme iron from your diet, it is found only in animal products: lard, eggs, fish, meat. Eat more lean meat - this is the main source of heme iron, which is found only in animal products. To increase the level of iron in the blood, combine meals from cereals and vegetables along with meat products, which contributes to their better absorption and increases the content of this trace element in your body.

Include in your diet dishes made from beans, peas and other legumes that contain a lot of iron.
dried porcini mushrooms;
string and asparagus beans;
garden strawberries;
pork and beef liver;
blueberry;
rabbit meat;
chicken and quail eggs.
To increase the level of iron in the blood, when eating iron-containing foods, do not forget about the “calcium effect”. Calcium and phosphorus found in milk and cheese can interfere with the flow of iron into the body's bloodstream. Therefore, it is advisable to take these products at different times.

Chocolate;
natural coffee or tea;
condensed milk;
milk and dairy products;
wheat flour bread.
Do not drink coffee or tea immediately after a meal. Do not flush iron with large amounts of them. tannin, which is contained in drinks, does not allow iron to penetrate into the blood of the body, binding it. Therefore, you can treat yourself to a cup of coffee or tea 20-30 minutes after taking the main meal, and they can also be replaced with rosehip broth, herbal teas, cocoa. As for dairy products, they can be taken in moderation. Calcium, which is part of their composition, is easily absorbed and does not interfere with the absorption of iron. Milk with high calcium content should be avoided.

To increase your iron levels in your blood, try to avoid low calorie diets. Since, women who adhere to such a diet receive an insignificant amount of iron with food. Thus, the iron content is sharply reduced, hemoglobin decreases and anemia develops.

Below we want to offer you some proven recipes that can be drunk by both adults and children.

In the morning you need to drink this mixture: in a glass of rosehip infusion, add a spoonful of honey and a little lemon juice. Drink only on an empty stomach to increase iron levels. At the same time, the adult dose is 1 glass, but the children's dose is half a glass.

Before breakfast, you need to eat 2 tablespoons of germinated wheat, and chew it thoroughly, you can add a little honey or dried apricots with nuts to it to increase the level of iron in the blood.

For the same breakfast, instead of a sandwich, you should eat a vegetable salad. It can be prepared from carrots or cabbage, green onions, dill. Also, beetroot salad seasoned with herbs and olive oil is considered an excellent assistant in increasing iron in the blood. Pumpkin also has a lot of iron, it can be eaten boiled or steamed.

Freshly squeezed juice from apples, carrots and beets (1:2:1) also helps to increase hemoglobin very well. But you need to drink it immediately after preparation, so you should not stock up for the whole day. If this mixture is too sugary for you, then you can dilute it with some water, but before you drink the juice, you need to eat 1 tablespoon of sour cream. It is very difficult for children to drink such juice, so they should divide the juice intake into 2-3 procedures, but, as mentioned above, prepare a new portion before use. It is advisable to drink this mixture half an hour to an hour before meals.

In addition to these recipes, in order to increase the level of iron in the blood, you can include cereals in your diet, preferably buckwheat and millet, instead of sugar, it is better to sweeten them with honey, pumpkin or dried fruits.
And finally, do not forget about walking in the fresh air, because when moving, blood circulation improves, and due to blood saturation with oxygen, the tone increases, and overall well-being improves.

As doctors say, it is better to prevent anemia than to treat it later.

Reduced hemoglobin in a complex worsens the state of the body, since in this case all organs and tissues experience oxygen starvation.

And this is complemented by an increased load on the cardiovascular system - the body simply accelerates blood flow in order to increase the flow of oxygen.

Especially dangerous is hemoglobin deficiency and anemia in preschool children - this often provokes the development of pathologies nervous systems which ultimately leads to mental retardation.

Factors influencing hemoglobin

The main hemoglobin is iron. It is through the process of its oxidation and reduction that oxygen is transported and absorbed in the tissues of a living organism.

iron deficiency- one of the most common causes of a sharp decrease in hemoglobin levels.

However, it is not enough to simply include iron-rich foods in the diet. This trace element cannot be fully absorbed without certain factors. For example, for its splitting into derivative atoms (which then react with certain groups of proteins), vitamin C, B-group vitamins (), omega-3 and omega-6 unsaturated fatty acids are needed.

However, there are a number of factors that reduce the bioavailability of iron. For example, a high calcium content in the body inhibits the production of new hemoglobin molecules. If there is a deficiency of the above trace elements, iron simply will not be absorbed.

It is also worth considering that a decrease in hemoglobin levels can be provoked by a whole range of diseases and the gastrointestinal tract. That is why you should not postpone going to the doctor - it is better to immediately establish the cause of hemoglobin deficiency and eliminate this particular factor.

If low level hemoglobin is triggered by a micronutrient deficiency, it is recommended to include the following foods in the diet:

  1. rich in iron;
  2. rich in vitamins C, E, B-groups;
  3. rich in amino acids (preferably of animal origin);
  4. exclude those foods that reduce the bioavailability of iron.

In most cases, the above list of recommendations will be enough to normalize the composition of formed elements in the blood.

List of 20 products to increase it

The body in sufficient quantities should receive all the micronutrients, including minerals, vitamins, metals. All these elements directly or indirectly affect the hematopoietic function, which must be stimulated (hemoglobin is produced in, like erythrocytes, platelets, leukocytes). So, here is a list of the 20 most effective products.

1. Liver

. Suitable beef, chicken, pork. Moreover, it is a weak roast (Rare), since in this case most of the micronutrients are preserved.

The liver contains both B-group vitamins, and iron (6.9 mg per 100 grams), and iodine - all this just contributes to an increase in hemoglobin levels.

2. Meat

The basis of any meat is a wide range of proteins and essential amino acids, which react with iron, thereby forming hemoglobin molecules.

In this plan are rabbit, pork, beef. But, again, meat should be given minimal heat treatment, ideally steamed.

3. Buckwheat

Almost all grains reduce the bioavailability of iron. The only exception is buckwheat, which acts exactly the opposite.

In addition, (almost 7 mg per 100 grams of kernels). That is why it is recommended to use it primarily as a complementary food for children. infancy, and not semolina (which contains calcium and thus slows down the production of hemoglobin).

4. Halva

- almost 30 mg per 100 grams of product (and in tahini even more - up to 50 mg per 100 grams). That is, 50 grams of such a dessert provide daily allowance iron in the body.

But it is worth considering that there are practically no B-group vitamins and ascorbic acid in halvah. Therefore, if it is included in the diet, then taking care of a sufficient norm of other micronutrients that promote the absorption of iron.

5. Beets

Contains both iron and amino acids, vitamins that. A feature of table beets is that all micronutrients are preserved in it even during heat treatment.

You can also include beetroot juice in your diet, but you should drink it diluted (1 part juice to 2 parts water).

6. Pomegranate

Of all the fruits, it is considered the most useful. thanks to the high content of vitamin B 6.

Iron in pomegranate seeds is also available, but in a small amount - only 1 - 1.5 milligrams per 100 grams.

7. Carrot

- it contains beta-carotene and vitamin A most of all.

And these microelements contribute to the acceleration of biochemical reactions using calcium - a decrease in its “free” level in the blood increases the bioavailability of iron (it contains only 0.5-0.7 mg per 100 grams in carrots).

8. Dried fruits

It is best to eat prunes, raisins, apricots, cherries, sweet cherries, bananas - they contain B-group vitamins, E, C.

The fact that dried fruits contain a large amount of vegetable fiber also helps to speed up the absorption of iron - this comprehensively normalizes the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.

9. Nuts

Walnuts, as well as pistachios, contain a considerable amount of omega-3 and omega-6 unsaturated fatty acids, which accelerate a whole complex of intercellular metabolic processes, including those with iron.

Most healthy nuts are considered for young children - they reduce the likelihood of pathologies of the nervous system by almost 2 times.

But peanuts should be abandoned. It is extremely high in fat, which creates a high load on the gastrointestinal tract, and also slows down the absorption of iron.

See separate article.

10. Fish caviar

, as they contain iron (from 6 to 12 mg per 100 grams), as well as omega-3 unsaturated fatty acids. Literally 100 grams of such a product per day completely provides the body with all the necessary micronutrients to normalize the level of hemoglobin.

And most importantly, this product is easily digestible, so it can be included in the diet in the presence of chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (when meat or liver are contraindicated).

11. Honey

- it contains a huge range of minerals (including rare ones that cannot be obtained from other foods), which positively affects the water-salt balance. And this is also an important point in the normalization of hemoglobin levels.

This will also help get rid of edema, which often occurs with an increase in the load on the cardiovascular system (which will definitely happen with a hemoglobin deficiency).

Nutritionists point out that you need to eat exactly buckwheat or honeydew honey in order to achieve the desired effect - they have the highest concentration of minerals.

12. Nettle

Contains a small amount of iron, as well as vitamin B 12, which increases its bioavailability for the body.

But it is worth remembering - it also stimulates the release gastric juice that with gastritis or peptic ulcer of the stomach and / or duodenum may aggravate the patient's condition.

13. Eggs

- they contain up to 8 mg per 100 grams of iron. And it is better to eat them fresh or boiled soft-boiled.

Fresh chicken eggs can be a source of salmonellosis. But quails also contain iron, but their shells have smaller pores through which the infection does not penetrate. Therefore, they are considered safer - they are recommended for children to include in the diet.

14. Fish

rich in omega-3 unsaturated fatty acids. And the fatter it is, the more fatty acids it contains. River in this regard is also useful, carp (mirror), pike and perch are better suited. And from the marine varieties of fish - tuna, salmon.

By the way, it is no less useful to use seaweed. It contains iodine, which normalizes the work of the endocrine system (which indirectly regulates the production of hemoglobin).

15. Chocolate

In cocoa powder, iron is up to 12 mg per 100 grams (depending on the variety and variety). Nutritionists say that you need to eat exactly. Less useful - milky, white, pink.

And it is advisable to cook chocolate yourself at home without adding butter (since it reduces the bioavailability of iron).

Chocolate also stimulates metabolic processes between cells by stimulating the production of endorphins. But you should not abuse this property, since the body is prone to increasing the need for the same serotonin. That is, over time, addiction develops and a kind of dependence.

16. Rosehip

Among - it is precisely the largest source of ascorbic acid, which is used in biochemical processes involving iron.

It is better to use wild rose in the form of a decoction (50 grams of fresh or dried berries per 300 milliliters of boiling water) or jelly.

Although rosehip contains a large amount of vitamin C, it does not irritate the mucous membrane of the stomach and esophagus, so these berries can be included in the diet when chronic diseases gastrointestinal tract.

17. Currant

Contains slightly less ascorbic acid than rose hips. It is better to use it - it has less tannin than red (tannin is a tannin and slows down the production of hemoglobin).

Currant leaves are no less useful, from which you can prepare fragrant and tasty tea. Its use is also an excellent prevention of immunodeficiency.

18. Strawberry

rich in vitamin C, it also contains a small amount of iron (from 0.2 to 1 mg per 100 grams, depending on the variety, as well as the cultivation method).

Only strawberries should be consumed whole or with sugar or honey, but not with sour cream, yogurt or cream.

19. Turmeric

Of the spices, it contains the most iron - about 35-50 mg per 100 grams. And most importantly - it is great for cooking almost any dish, even for some desserts.

During pregnancy, turmeric should not be abused, as it can provoke spasms of smooth muscles. In critical cases, this will even lead to premature birth. Doctors in most cases warn about this.

20. Parsley

From iron-containing greens -. But it should be consumed fresh, so it is better to add it to salads, and not to soups. Contains about 2 mg of iron per 100 grams.

Parsley root is no less useful. It is also used as a spice.

Also check out the product table:

General nutrition rules

For a faster and more effective increase in hemoglobin, nutritionists recommend following these tips:

  1. Observe fractional nutrition. You need to eat in small portions, but as often as possible. Optimally - at least 6 times a day.
  2. Refuse cereals (except buckwheat) and fermented milk products - all of them interfere with the production of formed elements and hemoglobin.
  3. Walk outdoors as often as possible- a sufficient balance of oxygen in the blood also indirectly stimulates the renewal of hemoglobin molecules, prevents the oxidation and destruction of red blood cells. Ideally, take a walk in the fresh air after each meal (this will also help to significantly speed up the metabolism).
  4. Refuse tea and. Better, as well as homemade compotes, fruit and vegetable juices.
  5. Do not eat 2-3 hours before scheduled sleep. Metabolic processes during sleep slow down significantly, so iron and vitamins are practically not absorbed during this period (but the load on the gastric mucosa increases, as the utilization of gastric juice slows down).

Features of the diet for certain groups of patients

The rules of nutrition for low hemoglobin for different groups of patients are somewhat different. Nutritionists point out:

  1. Adults. The norm of iron for adults is about 12 mg per day. Adults are much easier to understand meat products, animal offal (liver, lungs, kidneys, heart). It is recommended to include them in the diet every day at least in a minimal amount.
  2. Children. The norm of iron in children is from 8 to 11 milligrams per day. Preference should be given to herbal products. But milk should not be abused, especially fatty, as it dramatically reduces the level of hemoglobin, slows down the absorption of iron. It is also recommended to include in the diet buckwheat, fish, a small amount of chocolate and halva.
  3. Pregnant. The need for iron in pregnant women is the highest and reaches 20 mg per day. As a rule, they are prescribed specialized vitamin complexes to normalize hemoglobin. It is also recommended to eat fish, red caviar, carrots. But from turmeric, parsley and most other spices that stimulate smooth muscle spasm, it is better to refuse. The doctor with whom the woman becomes registered must tell about all this in detail.
  4. Elderly. They have the smallest need for iron - only 6 - 8 mg per day, which is explained by a natural slowdown in the functionality of the cardiovascular system and bone marrow. For older people, doctors also recommend eating fish, chicken fillet (breast, since there is practically no fat in it), as well as pomegranate, beetroot juice.

Folk remedies and vitamin complexes

If the inclusion of the above products in the diet did not bring the desired effect, then you can use folk remedies to increase the level of hemoglobin. Many of them are extremely effective and are recommended for use even by doctors. The most popular of these methods are:

  1. A decoction of dandelion roots. Helps to normalize the biochemical composition of the blood, accelerate the removal of toxins. To prepare, mix 30 grams of grated fresh dandelion roots with 2 cups of boiling water. Infuse for at least 2 hours (until completely cooled). Use 1 teaspoon, diluted in a glass of water with honey. Take 2 times a day.
  2. Infusion of wild rose and honey. For cooking, mix 10 grams of dry grated rose hips, 2 tablespoons of honey and a glass of boiling water. Insist 30 - 40 minutes, take as a tea 2 times a day. The course is no more than 2 weeks (if more, then there may be an excess of iron in the body, which also negatively affects health).
  3. Infusion of St. John's wort, blackberry leaves and medicinal chamomile. Mix 1 teaspoon of dry base of herbs, add 300 milliliters of water and infuse for 2 hours. Take 50 milliliters 3 times a day until hemoglobin levels normalize (but not more than 4 weeks).

If folk methods treatments do not bring the desired effect, then it is prescribed drug therapy. As a rule, these are multivitamin complexes with a high content of iron, B-group vitamins, and ascorbic acid. But calcium in such preparations is either completely absent or contained in a very small amount. Popular vitamin complexes of this group:

  • Decamevit;
  • Aevit;
  • Complivit;
  • Dopel-Hertz (with iron).

You should only check with your doctor for the recommended dosage, as well as the duration of the course of treatment.

Now let's take a look at the video:

Conclusion

In total, in most cases, it is possible to normalize the concentration of hemoglobin in the blood by a banal change in the diet. But this is not always enough, so you should not postpone going to the doctor. And the advanced stage of anemia is extremely dangerous disease, which can provoke both pathologies of the cardiovascular and nervous systems. This is especially important for infants. That is why it is recommended to donate blood for analysis at least once every 3 months in order to determine the concentration of hemoglobin and the presence of a vitamin deficiency.

Doctors also say that in almost 70% of cases, the reason for the decrease in hemoglobin is precisely the non-compliance with a healthy diet.