Health Tips: How to Increase Hemoglobin Levels With Simple Food Pairings

Due to busy and hectic schedule and changing dietary habits, hemoglobin deficiency has become an extremely common issue among women. According to the latest report by the National Family Health Survey (NFHS), more than half of the women in India suffer from anemia. Surprisingly, this deficiency is observed on a large scale even among women who consume a nutritious and balanced diet.

The primary reason for this is that what matters most is not merely what we eat, but rather the extent to which our body is able to absorb it (Iron Absorption). Simply consuming iron-rich foods is not sufficient; it is equally essential to pair them with the right food 'combinations.

Symptoms such as feeling weak, experiencing premature fatigue, or constantly feeling drained could indicate low hemoglobin levels in the blood. We often consume leafy vegetables, fruits, and supplements, yet our medical reports frequently show no improvement in hemoglobin levels. So, where exactly are things going wrong? The answer lies in 'Iron Absorption.' The extent to which the body can utilize iron-rich foods depends entirely on what other foods are consumed alongside them. To address this blood deficiency—and to help increase hemoglobin levels—Dr. Trupti Raheja has recommended several beneficial 'food combinations' that can naturally help resolve the shortage of blood in the body.

5 'Food Combinations' to Consume If Your Hemoglobin Levels Are Not Rising...

1. Spinach and Lemon: Spinach is an excellent and rich source of iron. However, the iron present in spinach is not fully absorbed by the body. To enhance its absorption, one should consume spinach dishes mixed with a small amount of lemon juice. This facilitates the rapid absorption of iron. Despite eating *Varan-Bhat* (lentils and rice) daily, Tamannaah Bhatia maintains an amazing figure; check out her method and portion sizes for eating this simple meal.

2. Beetroot, Carrot, and Sweet Lime Juice:** Carrots and beetroots are rich in iron, and sweet lime juice helps facilitate the rapid absorption of this iron into the body. The Vitamin C present in sweet limes aids in transporting iron throughout the system. Therefore, make sure to drink sweet lime juice alongside your carrots and beetroots.

3. Jaggery and Chickpeas: This age-old, traditional, and desi (homegrown) remedy helps boost blood levels in the body. Jaggery contains iron, while the protein found in chickpeas assists in the process of converting that iron into hemoglobin.

4. Pomegranates and Pumpkin Seeds: It might sound a bit unusual, but if you want to ensure your body fully absorbs the iron from pomegranates, try eating a bowl of pomegranate seeds mixed with a spoonful of pumpkin seeds. Pomegranates are packed with antioxidants, which, when combined with pumpkin seeds, play a supportive role in the production of hemoglobin.

5. Dates and Almonds: Consume two dates and five almonds together. When combined, dates and almonds play a crucial role in the production of red blood cells.

Take Note of This Important Point.

Many women tend to consume excessive amounts of tea and coffee. However, whenever you consume iron-rich foods, strictly avoid drinking tea or coffee for one hour *before* and one hour *after* your meal. Tea and coffee interfere with the body's ability to absorb iron.