6 Causes for Low Haemoglobin in Men

Low haemoglobin level means that there are not enough red blood cells in the body to carry oxygen through the body. This may cause a condition called anaemia, a common health problem across the world. There has been extensive research and discussion on anaemia in women. However, anaemia in men is mostly ignored. In India, nearly 25% of men are anaemic due to low haemoglobin levels. People suffering from anaemia are at a risk of developing other serious conditions like diabetes, asthma, tuberculosis, hypertension, etc. Hence, it is important to understand the causes for low haemoglobin in men for effective treatment.

In this blog, we will explore what is low haemoglobin, its symptoms and the common causes of low haemoglobin in males.

What does Low Haemoglobin Mean?

Haemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells, which transports oxygen from the lungs to the entire body and also removes carbon dioxide from the lungs.  For a male, normal haemoglobin level is in the range of 14 gm/dL - 17.5 gm/dL. A haemoglobin level below 13 is considered low for men.

Low haemoglobin means that your body is not getting enough oxygen and may show some signs. Low haemoglobin symptoms in males are the same as those in females. Here are some common symptoms of low haemoglobin in males include:

• Feeling weak and tired
• Shortness of breath
• Body aches
• Fast heartbeat
• Brittle nails
• Pale skin
• Headaches
• Poor concentration

Reasons for Low Haemoglobin in Men

There are many factors that affect the haemoglobin levels in men such as:

1. Internal Bleeding

Blood loss due to an injury, ulcer or illness like colon cancer or bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract results in low haemoglobin.

2. Low Production of Red Blood Cells

The bone marrow produces red blood cells (RBC) and white blood cells. Sometimes certain diseases or conditions affect the bone marrow’s ability to make RBCs such as leukemia, chronic kidney disease, chemotherapy, etc. Such a situation is more common in old age after having a chronic disease and is one of the main causes of anaemia in older men. In certain conditions like enlarged spleen or sickle cell anaemia, enough RBCs are produced but cells die faster than they can be replaced. 

3. Low Iron Absorption

Iron is required to make haemoglobin. Sometimes the body’s ability to absorb iron is affected after gastrointestinal surgery causing iron deficiency. 

4. Insufficient Nutrient Intake

A diet low in essential nutrients like iron, B12 and B9 can lead to low haemoglobin levels. Iron deficiency is one of the most common causes of anaemia in elderly males.

5. Genetic Conditions

Sometimes certain genetic conditions also cause a person to have low haemoglobin levels due to a defect in the gene. Sickle cell anaemia and thalassemia are two such genetic blood disorders. 

6. Chronic Condition of Anemia

Anaemia of chronic conditions is caused as a result of a critical illness. It is among the common causes of anaemia in elderly men above the age of 65 years. Inflammation caused by a chronic disease affects the body’s ability to use iron to produce RBCs. Chronic diseases that can cause anaemia are autoimmune diseases, cancer, congestive heart failure, etc.

>> Also Read: 6 Sources of Iron to Include in Your Diet

How to Treat Low Haemoglobin Levels?

To treat low haemoglobin levels, it is important to understand the underlying cause of the anaemia and address it. Here are ways to improve your haemoglobin levels.

1. Eat Iron-Rich Food

Consuming a diet rich in iron and other essential nutrients can help maintain haemoglobin levels. Dietary intake of iron can be increased by eating iron-rich foods like,

• Beans
• Legumes
• Leafy green vegetables, beetroot
• Fruits like apple, pomegranate 
• Nuts and seeds
• Eggs
• Meat and fish

2. Increase Folate Intake

Folate is a B vitamin which helps in the production of heme an essential part of haemoglobin. Folate also helps in the maturation of RBCs. Some good sources of folate are spinach, kidney beans, peanuts, whole grains, etc. For better absorption, you can take folate supplements also but only after consulting your doctor.

3. Improve Iron Absorption

Certain minerals and vitamins aid in the absorption of iron. These include vitamin A, vitamin C and beta-carotene. You can consume these through food as well as supplements. For vitamin A you can take sweet potatoes, fish, etc. For vitamin C you can have oranges, strawberries, papaya etc. and for beta-carotene eat carrots, mangoes, turnips etc.

4. Take Iron Supplements

Iron supplements can also be taken to improve haemoglobin levels but only in severe cases. Iron supplements should be taken as per the doctor’s recommendation only because an overdose of any essential nutrient may also cause certain health issues.

To Conclude

If you are someone with low haemoglobin, do not ignore it and consult a doctor to understand the root cause. Try to improve your haemoglobin levels through natural ways only unless your doctor advises you to start supplements. In extreme cases, blood transfusions may also be required.

Finally, invest in a suitable health insurance plan that offers annual health check-up benefit as well so that you can monitor your health and undergo treatment without having to worry about the costs. So hurry up and visit the Care Health Insurance website today to explore various health insurance plans available online and select a plan that best suits you.

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