Foods To Boost Hemoglobin Levels Naturally
Discover delicious foods that naturally boost your hemoglobin levels! Learn about iron-rich sources (heme and non-heme), essential Vitamin C foods for absorption, and key dietary tips to effectively combat fatigue and improve vitality.
Written by Dr. Siri Nallapu
Reviewed by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam MD (Physician)
Last updated on 14th Aug, 2025
Hemoglobin is a protein in your red blood cells that carries oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may feel tired, weak, or short of breath—a condition known as anemia. Fortunately, you can improve your hemoglobin levels naturally by eating the right foods.
Why Is Hemoglobin Important?
Hemoglobin plays a crucial role in keeping your body energized and healthy. When levels drop, your organs and tissues don’t get enough oxygen, leading to fatigue, dizziness, pale skin, and even heart problems in severe cases.
Symptoms of Low Hemoglobin
Symptoms of low hemoglobin are:
Fatigue and weakness
Pale or yellowish skin
Shortness of breath
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Cold hands and feet
Irregular heartbeat
If you experience these symptoms, it’s a good idea to check your hemoglobin levels with a simple blood test.
Best Foods to Increase Hemoglobin
Here are some nutrient-rich foods that can help boost your hemoglobin naturally:
1. Iron-Rich Foods
Iron is essential for hemoglobin production. There are two types of iron:
Heme Iron (found in animal sources, easily absorbed)
Red meat (beef, lamb)
Chicken and turkey
Fish (salmon, tuna)
Eggs
NonHeme Iron (found in plant sources, better absorbed with vitamin C)
Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens
Lentils, chickpeas, and beans
Tofu and soy products
Pumpkin seeds and sesame seeds
2. Vitamin C-Rich Foods
Vitamin C helps your body absorb nonheme iron better. Include:
Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits
Bell peppers (especially red and yellow)
Strawberries, kiwi, and guava
Tomatoes
3. Folate (Vitamin B9) Sources
Folate helps in red blood cell formation. Good sources include:
Dark leafy greens (spinach, kale)
Lentils and beans
Avocados
Bananas
4. Vitamin B12-Rich Foods
Vitamin B12 is crucial for healthy red blood cells. Include:
Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
Eggs
Fortified cereals
Fish (salmon, trout)
5. Copper and Vitamin A Foods
Copper (helps iron absorption) – nuts, seeds, shellfish
Vitamin A (supports hemoglobin production) – carrots, sweet potatoes, liver
Consult Top Physician
Lifestyle Tips to Improve Hemoglobin
Lifestyle tips to improve hemoglobin levels are:
1. Pair Iron with Vitamin C – Eating vitamin Crich foods with ironrich meals enhances absorption. Example: Spinach salad with lemon dressing.
2. Avoid Iron Blockers – Tea, coffee, and calcium-rich foods can interfere with iron absorption. Have them between meals.
3. Stay Hydrated – Drinking enough water helps maintain healthy blood volume.
4. Exercise Regularly – Moderate exercise can stimulate red blood cell production.
When to See a Doctor?
If dietary changes don’t improve your hemoglobin levels, or if you experience severe symptoms like chest pain or extreme fatigue, consult a doctor. You may need supplements or further tests to rule out underlying conditions.
Book a Hemoglobin Test with Apollo 24|7
Worried about low hemoglobin? You can easily book a blood test or consult a doctor through Apollo 24|7 for personalized advice.
Final Thoughts
Eating a balanced diet rich in iron, vitamins, and minerals can naturally boost your hemoglobin levels. Small dietary changes, combined with healthy habits, can make a big difference in your energy and overall wellbeing.
Stay healthy and nourished!
Consult Top Physician
Consult Top Physician
Dr. Promise Jain
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
20 Years • MBBS, DNB Medicine, TDD, MNAMS, PGCDM, CCEBDM, CCMTD,PGDE Senior Consultant- Internal Medicine Head- Department of critical care Apollo Sage Hospital, Bhopal, MP Intensivist, Diabetes, Thyroid , Physician
Bhopal
Apollo Sage Hospitals, Bhopal
Dr. Subashini Venkatesh
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
25 Years • MBBS., DCH, MRCGP, Dip (Dermatology), CCT
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Heart Centre Thousand Lights, Chennai
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Tanmaya Kumar Sahu
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS, MD ( Internal Medicine )
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Apollo Hospitals Old Sainik School Road, Bhubaneswar
Dr. Pankaj Dubey
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
28 Years • MBBS,Dip.Card, MRCP., FJFICM
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Apollo Hospitals Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad
Dr. M C S Reddy
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
9 Years • MBBS, MD (Gen. Med.), Dip.Diabetoogy, IDCC
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Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Nellore
