Is Your Hemoglobin Too Low And Wrecking Your Health?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), anemia affects 1.62 billion people globally, which is roughly 24.8% of the world’s population. While severe anemia is less common, it is a significant global health issue affecting just 4% to 5% which is still millions of people worldwide. While the exact numbers can vary depending on the source, severe anemia generally refers to hemoglobin levels that are dangerously low, often below 7 g/dL, requiring medical intervention such as blood transfusions. 

Maintaining healthy hemoglobin levels is crucial for overall health and proper bodily function. I had no idea that my iron had been dangerously low for over 10 years! I put my lack of energy down to getting older and the stress of running businesses and then working amidst all of the many crises that have unfolded from the first administration of the “one who will not be ever named in these pages” to the Covid crisis to the insurrection to the ongoing craziness of our political situation even when President Biden was fixing things. My exhaustion seemed to heighten after the ridiculous open steal and re-installation of the MAGA/Project 2025 candidates into the congressional majority and the White House.

But, little did I know, that my exhaustion was actually down to a severe iron deficiency. It became life-threatening about a month ago, when it got so bad I couldn’t walk up subway stairs or more than half a block without my heart racing. I could do little more than work and sleep. Fortunately. I am very proactive when it comes to my health. So, I researched my symptoms and forced an inept doctor to do a hemogloblin and iron test and both levels were so dangerously low that I could have had a heart attack or stroke at any time. I had no idea this was even a thing until I did my own research. Three overnight hospital stays, two blood transfusions, and a series of iron infusions later, I am on the road to recovery. Yesterday, I literally ran up subway steps which is an amazing improvement from just a month ago. However, I will never again take my iron levels for granted or let doctors do so. When I looked back over the past 14 years worth of blood tests results, I have been anemic for all but 2 of them and this should’ve been addressed a long time ago.

So dear readers, here is the skinny on hemoglobin and why you should always be aware of your levels:

Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body and returns carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs to be exhaled. Here’s why keeping hemoglobin levels within a healthy range matters:

1. Efficient Oxygen Transport

• Primary Role: Hemoglobin binds with oxygen in the lungs and transports it to tissues and organs.
• Impact: Low hemoglobin levels mean less oxygen reaches vital organs, which can cause fatigue, weakness, and poor physical performance.

2. Energy and Stamina

• Adequate hemoglobin is essential for maintaining energy levels.
• People with low hemoglobin (anemia) often experience tiredness, shortness of breath, and reduced exercise tolerance.

3. Brain Function

• The brain is highly sensitive to oxygen levels.
• Low hemoglobin can impair concentration, memory, and overall cognitive function.

4. Immune System Support

• Oxygen is essential for white blood cell activity.
• Maintaining proper hemoglobin supports immune defenses and reduces susceptibility to infections.

5. Cardiovascular Health

• The heart must work harder to deliver oxygen if hemoglobin is low, which can strain the heart over time.
• Chronic anemia is linked to an increased risk of heart complications, especially in people with pre-existing conditions.

6. Pregnancy and Child Development

• Healthy hemoglobin levels are crucial during pregnancy for fetal development and reducing the risk of complications like preterm birth or low birth weight.
• In children, low hemoglobin can affect growth, immunity, and cognitive development.

7. Athletic Performance

• Athletes monitor hemoglobin because it influences aerobic capacity and endurance.
• Higher (but still safe) levels of hemoglobin improve oxygen delivery to muscles during physical activity.

Normal Hemoglobin Levels

• Men: 13.8 to 17.2 grams per deciliter (g/dL)
• Women: 12.1 to 15.1 g/dL
• Children: 11 to 16 g/dL (varies by age and gender)

How to Maintain Healthy Hemoglobin

• Diet: Iron-rich foods (red meat, leafy greens, legumes), vitamin C (enhances iron absorption), B vitamins (especially B12 and folate).
• Hydration: Proper hydration supports healthy blood volume.
• Supplements: When needed, under medical guidance.
• Medical Conditions: Treat underlying causes of low hemoglobin (e.g., chronic disease, bleeding, or nutritional deficiencies).

Low hemoglobin levels—known medically as anemia can lead to a range of complications depending on the severity, cause, and how long it persists. Here are the major complications that can arise from untreated or
severe anemia:

Complications of Low Hemoglobin Levels

1. Fatigue and Weakness

• One of the earliest and most common symptoms.
• Low oxygen delivery to muscles and tissues leads to chronic tiredness, low stamina, and reduced physical performance.

2. Shortness of Breath

• Even with mild exertion, people with low hemoglobin may feel breathless.
• The body compensates for the lack of oxygen by increasing respiratory effort.

3. Heart Problems

• Tachycardia (rapid heartbeat): The heart works harder to pump oxygen-rich blood.
• Heart murmur: May develop as blood viscosity changes.
• Heart failure: In severe or chronic cases, especially in older adults or those with preexisting heart conditions.

4. Pale or Yellow Skin

• Reduced red blood cell mass leads to paleness.
• Certain types of anemia (e.g., hemolytic anemia) can cause jaundice due to rapid red blood cell breakdown.

5. Cognitive and Neurological Effects

• Impaired concentration, memory issues, dizziness, and even fainting can occur due to reduced oxygen supply to the brain.
• In children, it can impact learning and developmental milestones.

6. Pregnancy Complications

• Increases the risk of premature birth, low birth weight, and postpartum depression.
• Severe maternal anemia can affect fetal oxygenation and development.

7. Immune System Dysfunction

• Increases susceptibility to infections.
• The body becomes less capable of mounting an effective immune response.

8. Cold Hands and Feet / Sensitivity to Cold

• Poor circulation and low oxygen delivery can lead to peripheral temperature regulation issues.

9. Restless Legs Syndrome

• Particularly associated with iron-deficiency anemia.
• Can affect sleep and quality of life.

10. Reduced Exercise Tolerance

• Hemoglobin is crucial for aerobic energy production.
• Even routine activities may cause exhaustion or muscle cramps.

Severe or Acute Anemia Risks

In cases of rapid or extreme blood loss or dangerously low hemoglobin (often below 7 g/dL):

• Organ damage can occur due to hypoxia.
• Shock and death are possible if left untreated.
• Emergency blood transfusions may be needed.

✅ When to Seek Medical Help

Seek prompt evaluation if you or someone experiences:

• Persistent fatigue
• Chest pain or palpitations
• Shortness of breath at rest or with minimal effort
• Pale or yellowish skin
• Light-headedness or fainting
  

  In conclusion, hemoglobin is a cornerstone of health because of its role in oxygen transport and energy production. Regular checkups, a balanced diet, and prompt treatment of deficiencies or medical conditions can help maintain optimal levels and prevent complications.