How can you increase hemoglobin count through dietary changes and supplements. What are the causes of low hemoglobin levels. Which foods are rich in iron and folate. How do vitamin C and vitamin A affect iron absorption. What factors can decrease iron absorption in the body.

Understanding Hemoglobin and Its Importance

Hemoglobin is a crucial protein found in red blood cells that plays a vital role in transporting oxygen throughout the body. It also helps remove carbon dioxide from cells, returning it to the lungs for exhalation. The Mayo Clinic defines low hemoglobin counts as anything below 13.5 grams per deciliter in men or 12 grams per deciliter in women.

Various factors can contribute to low hemoglobin levels, including:

• Iron deficiency anemia
• Pregnancy
• Liver problems
• Urinary tract infections

Some individuals may have naturally low hemoglobin counts without any underlying cause, while others might experience low hemoglobin without any noticeable symptoms.

The Role of Iron in Hemoglobin Production

Iron plays a crucial role in the production of hemoglobin. A protein called transferrin binds to iron and transports it throughout the body, aiding in the creation of red blood cells containing hemoglobin. Can iron supplementation help increase hemoglobin levels? Yes, increasing iron intake through diet or supplements can potentially boost hemoglobin production.

Iron-Rich Foods to Incorporate into Your Diet

To raise your hemoglobin levels naturally, consider incorporating the following iron-rich foods into your diet:

• Liver and organ meats
• Shellfish
• Beef
• Broccoli
• Kale
• Spinach
• Green beans
• Cabbage
• Beans and lentils
• Tofu
• Baked potatoes
• Fortified cereals and enriched bread

The Importance of Folate in Hemoglobin Production

Folate, a B vitamin, is essential for the production of heme, the component of red blood cells containing hemoglobin. Without adequate folate, red blood cells cannot mature properly, potentially leading to folate deficiency anemia and low hemoglobin levels.

Folate-Rich Foods to Boost Hemoglobin

To increase your folate intake, consider adding these foods to your diet:

• Beef
• Spinach
• Black-eyed peas
• Avocado
• Lettuce
• Rice
• Kidney beans
• Peanuts

Iron Supplementation: Benefits and Precautions

In cases where a significant increase in hemoglobin is needed, oral iron supplements may be necessary. However, it’s crucial to exercise caution when taking iron supplements. Is it possible to consume too much iron? Yes, excessive iron intake can lead to a condition called hemochromatosis, which may result in liver diseases such as cirrhosis and other side effects like constipation, nausea, and vomiting.

To ensure safe supplementation:

• Consult with your doctor to determine an appropriate dosage
• Avoid taking more than 25 milligrams (mg) at one time
• Follow the recommended daily intake: up to 8 mg for men, up to 18 mg for women, and up to 27 mg for pregnant women
• Store supplements out of reach of children
• Choose child-safe formulations for children requiring iron supplements

Depending on the underlying condition causing low hemoglobin, you may notice improvements in your iron levels within a week to a month of starting supplementation.

Enhancing Iron Absorption: Factors That Help and Hinder

To maximize the benefits of increased iron intake, it’s important to understand the factors that can affect iron absorption in the body.

Factors That Increase Iron Absorption

Certain nutrients can enhance iron absorption when consumed alongside iron-rich foods or supplements:

Vitamin C

Vitamin C may significantly improve iron absorption. Consider pairing iron-rich foods or supplements with vitamin C sources such as:

• Citrus fruits
• Strawberries
• Dark, leafy greens

A simple tip is to squeeze fresh lemon juice over iron-rich meals to boost absorption.

Vitamin A and Beta-Carotene

Vitamin A and beta-carotene can also enhance iron absorption. Good sources include:

• Fish and liver (for vitamin A)
• Carrots
• Winter squash
• Sweet potatoes
• Mangos

While vitamin A supplements are available, it’s crucial to work closely with a healthcare professional to determine a safe dosage, as excessive vitamin A intake can lead to hypervitaminosis A.

Factors That Decrease Iron Absorption

Certain substances can inhibit iron absorption when consumed alongside iron-rich foods or supplements:

Calcium

Calcium from both dietary sources and supplements can hinder iron absorption. To mitigate this effect:

• Avoid calcium supplements when taking iron supplements
• Refrain from consuming calcium-rich foods immediately before or after taking iron supplements

High-calcium foods include:

• Dairy products
• Soybeans
• Seeds
• Figs

Phytic Acid

Phytic acid can reduce iron absorption, particularly in individuals who don’t consume meat. However, its effects are limited to a single meal and do not impact iron absorption throughout the day. For those following a plant-based diet, it’s advisable to avoid consuming foods high in phytic acid alongside iron-rich meals.

Foods high in phytic acid include:

• Walnuts
• Brazil nuts
• Sesame seeds

It’s important to note that both calcium and phytic acid are essential nutrients and should not be entirely eliminated from your diet. The key is to manage their consumption in relation to iron intake.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Low Hemoglobin

While dietary changes and supplements can often help increase hemoglobin levels, some cases may require medical intervention. When should you consult a doctor about low hemoglobin? It’s advisable to seek medical attention if:

• You experience persistent symptoms of low hemoglobin despite dietary changes
• Your hemoglobin levels don’t improve after trying dietary interventions and supplements
• You have underlying health conditions that may be contributing to low hemoglobin
• You’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant
• You experience severe symptoms such as extreme fatigue, shortness of breath, or chest pain

Your healthcare provider can perform additional tests to identify the root cause of low hemoglobin and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Lifestyle Factors That Impact Hemoglobin Levels

In addition to dietary changes and supplementation, certain lifestyle factors can influence hemoglobin levels:

Exercise

Regular physical activity can stimulate the production of red blood cells and improve overall circulation. How does exercise affect hemoglobin levels? Moderate aerobic exercise can increase hemoglobin concentration and improve oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood.

Hydration

Proper hydration is essential for maintaining healthy blood volume and hemoglobin function. Aim to drink adequate water throughout the day to support optimal blood health.

Stress Management

Chronic stress can negatively impact various aspects of health, including blood cell production. Incorporating stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises may help support overall blood health.

Sleep

Quality sleep is crucial for the body’s repair and regeneration processes, including the production of red blood cells. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to support optimal hemoglobin levels.

Monitoring Hemoglobin Levels: Types of Tests and Frequency

Regular monitoring of hemoglobin levels is essential for individuals with a history of low hemoglobin or those at risk of developing iron deficiency anemia. What types of tests are used to measure hemoglobin levels?

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): This comprehensive test measures various components of blood, including hemoglobin levels.
• Hemoglobin A1C Test: While primarily used to diagnose diabetes, this test can also provide information about average hemoglobin levels over the past 2-3 months.
• Hematocrit Test: This test measures the percentage of red blood cells in your blood volume and can indirectly indicate hemoglobin levels.

The frequency of hemoglobin testing depends on individual circumstances and should be determined by a healthcare provider. Generally, individuals with known iron deficiency or other risk factors may require more frequent testing, while those with stable hemoglobin levels may need less frequent monitoring.

Special Considerations for Different Demographics

Hemoglobin requirements and strategies for increasing levels can vary depending on age, gender, and specific health conditions:

Pregnant Women

Pregnant women have increased iron needs due to the demands of fetal development and increased blood volume. How much iron do pregnant women need? The recommended daily intake of iron for pregnant women is 27 mg, significantly higher than the 18 mg recommended for non-pregnant women of childbearing age.

Vegetarians and Vegans

Plant-based diets can be low in iron, particularly heme iron found in animal products. Vegetarians and vegans should pay special attention to incorporating iron-rich plant foods and may benefit from iron supplementation under medical supervision.

Athletes

Intense physical activity can lead to increased iron loss through sweat and potentially impact hemoglobin levels. Athletes, especially endurance athletes, may require higher iron intake to maintain optimal hemoglobin levels.

Older Adults

Aging can affect iron absorption and utilization in the body. Older adults should work closely with healthcare providers to monitor hemoglobin levels and address any deficiencies through diet or supplementation.

Potential Complications of Untreated Low Hemoglobin

If left untreated, chronically low hemoglobin levels can lead to various health complications:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Pale or yellowish skin
• Irregular heartbeats
• Cold hands and feet
• Chest pain
• Cognitive issues, such as difficulty concentrating

In severe cases, untreated anemia can lead to heart problems, pregnancy complications, and developmental delays in children. This underscores the importance of addressing low hemoglobin levels promptly and effectively.

Innovative Approaches to Increasing Hemoglobin

While traditional methods of increasing hemoglobin through diet and supplementation remain effective, researchers are exploring innovative approaches to address low hemoglobin levels:

Gene Therapy

Advances in gene therapy show promise for treating certain types of inherited anemias by correcting genetic defects that affect hemoglobin production.

Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agents (ESAs)

These medications stimulate the bone marrow to produce more red blood cells, potentially increasing hemoglobin levels. ESAs are typically used in specific medical conditions, such as chronic kidney disease.

Nanotechnology

Researchers are exploring the use of nanoparticles to enhance iron absorption and delivery to cells, potentially improving the efficacy of iron supplementation.

Gut Microbiome Modulation

Emerging research suggests that the gut microbiome may play a role in iron absorption and metabolism. Future treatments may involve probiotic interventions to optimize iron utilization in the body.

While these approaches show promise, they are still in various stages of research and development. Traditional methods of increasing hemoglobin through diet, supplementation, and lifestyle changes remain the most accessible and well-established strategies for most individuals.

How to Increase Hemoglobin

You can do several things to increase hemoglobin count through dietary changes and supplements, but stay in touch with your doctor while you try these out.

Read on to learn about how to raise your hemoglobin and what things to consider.

Hemoglobin is a protein in your red blood cells that carries oxygen to the rest of your body. It also transports carbon dioxide out of your cells and back to your lungs to be exhaled.

The Mayo Clinic defines low hemoglobin counts as anything below 13.5 grams per deciliter in men or 12 grams per deciliter in women.

Many things can cause low hemoglobin levels, such as:

• iron deficiency anemia
• pregnancy
• liver problems
• urinary tract infections

In addition, some people have naturally low hemoglobin counts without any underlying cause. Others have low hemoglobin, but never have any symptoms.

Iron plays an important role in hemoglobin production. A protein called transferrin binds to iron and transports it throughout the body. This helps your body make red blood cells, which contain hemoglobin.

The first step toward raising your hemoglobin level on your own is to start eating more iron. Foods that are high in iron include:

• liver and organ meats
• shellfish
• beef
• broccoli
• kale
• spinach
• green beans
• cabbage
• beans and lentils
• tofu
• baked potatoes
• fortified cereals and enriched bread

Folate is a B vitamin that your body uses to produce heme, the part of your red blood cells that contains hemoglobin. Without enough folate, your red blood cells can’t mature. This can lead to folate deficiency anemia and low hemoglobin levels.

You can add folate to your diet by eating more:

• beef
• spinach
• black-eyed peas
• avocado
• lettuce
• rice
• kidney beans
• peanuts

If you need to raise your hemoglobin level by a lot, you may need to take oral iron supplements. However, too much iron can cause a condition called hemochromatosis. This can lead to liver diseases such as cirrhosis, and other side effects, such as constipation, nausea, and vomiting.

Work with your doctor to figure out a safe dose, and avoid taking more than 25 milligrams (mg) at one time. The National Institutes of Health’s Office of Dietary Supplements recommends that men get up to 8 mg of iron per day, while women should get up to 18 mg per day. If you’re pregnant, you should aim for up to 27 mg a day.

You should start noticing a difference in your iron level after about a week to a month, depending on your underlying condition that’s causing low hemoglobin.

Iron supplements should always be kept carefully out of reach of children. If your child needs an iron supplement, make sure you choose one that’s safe for children.

Children have a lower blood volume, which makes them much more vulnerable to iron poisoning. If your child accidentally takes an iron supplement, call your doctor immediately.

Whether you increase your iron intake through food or supplements, it’s also important to make sure your body can easily process the extra iron you put into it. Certain things can either increase or decrease the amount of iron your body absorbs.

Things that increase iron absorption

When you eat something high in iron or take an iron supplement, try eating foods rich in vitamin C or take a supplement at the same time. Vitamin C may help to increase the amount of iron your body absorbs. Try squeezing some fresh lemon over iron rich foods to increase absorption.

Foods high in vitamin C include:

• citrus
• strawberries
• dark, leafy greens

Vitamin A and beta-carotene, which helps your body produce vitamin A, can also help your body absorb more iron. You can find vitamin A in animal food sources, such as fish and liver. Beta-carotene is usually found in red, yellow, and orange fruits and vegetables, such as:

• carrots
• winter squash
• sweet potatoes
• mangos

You can also take vitamin A supplements, but make sure you work closely with your doctor to figure out a safe dose. Too much vitamin A can lead to a potentially serious condition called hypervitaminosis A.

Things that decrease iron absorption

Calcium from both supplements and food sources can make it harder for your body to absorb iron. However, it’s important that you don’t completely eliminate calcium because it’s an essential nutrient. Just avoid calcium supplements and try not to eat calcium-rich foods right before or after taking an iron supplement.

Foods high in calcium include:

• dairy
• soybeans
• seeds
• figs

Phytic acid can also reduce your body’s absorption of iron, especially if you don’t eat meat. However, it only affects iron absorption during a single meal, not throughout the day. If you don’t eat meat, try to avoid eating foods high in phytic acid with iron-rich foods.

Foods high in phytic acid include:

• walnuts
• Brazil nuts
• sesame seeds

Keep in mind that, like calcium, phytic acid is an essential nutrient that shouldn’t be completely removed from your diet.

Some cases of low hemoglobin can’t be fixed through diet and supplements alone. Contact your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms while trying to raise your hemoglobin level:

• pale skin and gums
• fatigue and muscle weakness
• a fast or irregular heartbeat
• frequent headaches
• frequent or unexplained bruising

Depending on the underlying cause and the changes you make, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to almost a year to raise your hemoglobin count.

Speak with a doctor, as you may need additional treatment, such as an iron transfusion, especially if you’re pregnant or have a chronic health condition.

B12 Deficiency: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that must be obtained through diet or a supplement. Having too little B12 can cause fatigue, anemia, and neurological problems.

Vitamin deficiencies may sometimes go unnoticed, yet they can have a significant effect on our health. Among the more common deficiencies is vitamin B12.

Here’s what vitamin B12 deficiency looks like and what you can do about it.

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. It’s an essential nutrient that the body needs but cannot produce on its own, so it must be obtained through diet or supplements.

Vitamin B12 is primarily involved in the production of red blood cells, the maintenance of a healthy nervous system, and the metabolism of proteins and fats. It also contributes to DNA synthesis and supports brain function.

A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to various symptoms, including:

• Fatigue and weakness: B12 deficiency can cause general fatigue, lack of energy, and muscle weakness.
• Anemia: Without enough B12, the body may produce larger, irregularly shaped red blood cells, leading to megaloblastic anemia. Approximately 1–2% of anemia in the general population is due to B12 deficiency. Symptoms may include weakness, shortness of breath, and pale skin.
• Neurological problems: B12 is vital in maintaining a healthy nervous system. Deficiency can lead to symptoms such as numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, difficulty with balance, muscle weakness, memory problems, and depression.
• Digestive issues: Some individuals with B12 deficiency may experience digestive problems like loss of appetite, diarrhea, or constipation.
• Tongue inflammation: B12 deficiency can cause inflammation of the tongue (glossitis), leading to a swollen, red, or sore tongue.

First signs of vitamin b12 deficiency

Fatigue and weakness are often among the first symptoms of a B12 deficiency, followed by pale or yellowish skin due to anemia.

Numbness or tingling sensations in the extremities may occur, along with difficulty maintaining balance or coordination. Mood changes, including irritability, depression, or anxiety, can also be early signs of a B12 deficiency.

Here are some of the common causes of a vitamin B12 deficiency:

Inadequate dietary intake

A diet lacking in animal-based foods — which are the primary sources of vitamin B12 — can lead to deficiency.

In vegetarians, research in 2016 reports low B12 among:

• 62% of pregnant people
• 25–86% of children
• 21–41% of adolescents
• up to 90% of older adults

Intrinsic factor deficiency

Intrinsic factor, a protein needed for B12 absorption, can become deficient due to pernicious anemia.

Research in 2018 has shown that older adults are at high risk of vitamin B12 malabsorption due to the lack of intrinsic factor production. Their symptoms are often misdiagnosed as Alzheimer’s disease and other chronic conditions.

Gastrointestinal conditions

Conditions like celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and other gastrointestinal disorders can interfere with the absorption of B12 in the small intestine.

Autoimmune disorders

Autoimmune conditions, such as pernicious anemia or autoimmune gastritis, can result in the destruction of cells that produce intrinsic factor, or damage the stomach lining, affecting B12 absorption.

Medications

Certain medications can interfere with B12 absorption, including:

• proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) used to reduce stomach acid
• metformin, a medication for diabetes

Age-related decline

As we age, the body’s ability to absorb B12 from food decreases, which can contribute to deficiency in older adults.

Alcohol use disorder

Heavy alcohol consumption can lead to poor dietary intake, impaired B12 absorption, and damage to the stomach and small intestine, contributing to deficiency.

If you suspect or have been diagnosed with vitamin B12 deficiency, it’s important to take appropriate steps to address the deficiency and restore your B12 levels.

Here’s what you can do:

• Consult a healthcare professional: Seek guidance from a healthcare professional who can assess your symptoms, conduct tests to confirm the deficiency, and provide tailored advice based on your specific situation.
• B12 supplementation: A healthcare professional may recommend B12 supplements, which can be taken orally or administered through injections, depending on the severity of the deficiency. The supplementation will help replenish your B12 levels.
• Dietary changes: Incorporate foods rich in vitamin B12 into your diet. Animal-based sources such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products are excellent sources of B12. If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, consider fortified plant-based foods or B12 supplements.
• Address underlying causes: If your B12 deficiency is caused by an underlying medical condition, such as pernicious anemia or digestive disorders, treating and managing those conditions may be essential for the long-term management of your B12 levels.

Foods with vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is predominantly found in animal-based foods. Good dietary sources of vitamin B12 include:

• meat and poultry
• fish and seafood
• eggs
• dairy products
• fortified foods (cereals, plant-based milk alternatives, nutritional yeast)

Who should take a supplement for vitamin B12?

The following people may benefit from B12 supplementation, but it’s best to reach out to a healthcare professional first:

• vegetarians and vegans
• older adults
• individuals with digestive disorders
• heavy alcohol users
• individuals with certain medical conditions or who are taking certain medications

B12 supplements or injections?

Both B12 supplements and injections are effective methods for treating B12 deficiency. The choice between the two depends on the severity of the deficiency, the underlying cause, and individual factors.

B12 supplements, usually taken orally in the form of tablets or capsules, are widely available and convenient. They’re effective for most people with a B12 deficiency, especially those with mild to moderate deficiencies or those who can absorb B12 adequately through the digestive system.

On the other hand, B12 injections bypass the digestive system and deliver the vitamin directly into the muscle or bloodstream. This method is useful for individuals with more severe deficiencies, malabsorption issues, or those who require immediate replenishment of B12 levels.

B12 injections can rapidly increase B12 levels and may be recommended in cases where oral supplementation is ineffective or impractical.

Recovery time from a B12 deficiency varies based on the severity of the deficiency, the underlying cause, and your individual response to treatment.

Improvement in symptoms typically occurs within a few weeks to a few months with appropriate treatment.

Mild deficiencies may resolve relatively quickly through oral B12 supplements or dietary adjustments. However, severe deficiencies or absorption issues may require longer recovery periods, often involving B12 injections or higher-dose oral supplements.

Patience is key, as it can take several months for symptoms to improve and B12 levels to normalize.

Vitamin B12 deficiencies occur when your body doesn’t have enough B12 to function properly. It can lead to various symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, neurological problems, and anemia.

There are several causes of B12 deficiency, such as inadequate dietary intake, intrinsic factor deficiency, gastrointestinal disorders, medications, and age-related decline.

If you suspect you may have B12 deficiency, it’s important to reach out to a healthcare professional so they can test your B12 levels and guide you on a treatment option that works for you.

Serum latent iron-binding capacity

Serum latent iron-binding capacity is a laboratory indicator that reflects the potential ability of blood serum to bind additional iron.

Synonyms Russian

Unsaturated iron-binding capacity of serum, NZhSS, LZhSS.

Synonyms English

Iron indices, iron profile, unsaturated iron binding capacity, UIBC.

Test method

Colorimetric photometric method.

Units

µmol/l (micromoles per litre).

What biomaterial can be used for research?

Venous blood.

How to properly prepare for an examination?

• Do not eat for 8 hours before the test, you can drink pure non-carbonated water.
• Stop taking iron-containing drugs 72 hours before the test.
• Avoid physical and emotional stress and do not smoke for 30 minutes prior to the examination.

General information about the study

Iron is an important trace element in the body. It is part of the hemoglobin that fills red blood cells and allows them to carry oxygen from the lungs to organs and tissues.

Iron is part of the muscle protein myoglobin and some enzymes. It is absorbed from food and then carried by transferrin, a special protein that is formed in the liver.

Normally, the body contains 4-5 g of iron, about 3-4 mg (0.1% of the total) circulates in the blood “in conjunction” with transferrin. The level of transferrin depends on the functioning of the liver and on the nutrition of the person. Normally, 1/3 of the binding centers of transferrin are filled with iron, the remaining 2/3 remain in reserve. The latent serum iron-binding capacity (LBI) reflects how much transferrin is “not filled” with iron.

This parameter can be calculated using the following formula: TLBC = TIBC – serum iron (TIBC is the total iron-binding capacity of blood serum – an indicator that characterizes the maximum ability of transferrin to “fill up” with iron).

In iron deficiency, transferrin becomes larger so that this protein can bind to a small amount of iron in the serum. Accordingly, the amount of transferrin “not occupied” by iron, that is, the latent iron-binding ability of serum, also increases.

Conversely, with an excess of iron, almost all the binding centers of transferrin are occupied by this trace element, so the latent iron-binding capacity of the serum is reduced.

The amount of serum iron can vary significantly on different days and even within one day (especially in the morning), however, TIBC and LVVR normally remain relatively stable.

In the early stages, iron deficiency sometimes causes no symptoms. If a person is otherwise healthy, then the disease can only make itself felt when hemoglobin drops below 100 g / l. Usually these are complaints of weakness, fatigue, dizziness, headaches.

What is research used for?

To determine the amount of iron in the body and its association with blood proteins (along with a serum iron test, sometimes with a test for TIBC and transferrin). These studies allow you to calculate the percentage of saturation of transferrin with iron, that is, to determine exactly how much iron the blood carries. This indicator most accurately characterizes the exchange of iron.

The purpose of these tests is to diagnose iron deficiency or excess. In patients with anemia, they can determine whether the disease is due to iron deficiency or other causes, such as chronic disease or vitamin B deficiency ₁₂ .

When is the test ordered?

• When there are any abnormalities in the complete blood count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, red blood cell count (together with the serum iron test).
• If you suspect a deficiency or excess of iron in the body. With a severe lack of iron, there is shortness of breath, pain in the chest and head, weakness in the legs. Some have a desire to eat unusual foods (chalk, clay), burning of the tip of the tongue, cracks in the corners of the mouth. Children may have learning difficulties.
• If iron overload is suspected (hemochromatosis). This condition manifests itself in many ways, such as pain in the joints or in the abdomen, weakness, fatigue, decreased sex drive, and heart rhythm disturbances.
• When monitoring the effectiveness of the treatment of iron deficiency or excess.

What do the results mean?

Reference values: 20 – 62 µmol/l.

Interpretation of the results of the analysis for LVCC, as a rule, is made taking into account other indicators that evaluate iron metabolism.

Causes of increase in TIH

• Anemia. It is usually caused by chronic blood loss or insufficient consumption of meat products.
• Third trimester of pregnancy. In this case, the level of iron in the serum decreases due to an increase in the need for it.
• Acute hepatitis.
• Multiple blood transfusions, intramuscular iron administration, inadequate administration of iron preparations.

Causes of low TIBC

• Chronic diseases: systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, tuberculosis, bacterial endocarditis, Crohn’s disease, etc.
• Hypoproteinemia associated with malabsorption, chronic liver disease, burns. A decrease in the amount of protein in the body leads, among other things, to a drop in the level of transferrin, which reduces TIBC.
• Hereditary hemochromatosis. With this disease, too much iron is absorbed from food, the excess of which is deposited in various organs, causing their damage.
• Thalassemia is a hereditary disease in which the structure of hemoglobin is changed.
• Cirrhosis of the liver.
• Glomerulonephritis – inflammation of the kidneys.

What can influence the result?

• Estrogens, oral contraceptives lead to an increase in LVCC.
• ACTH, corticosteroids, testosterone may decrease LVVR.
• The amount of serum iron can vary significantly from day to day and even within one day (especially in the morning hours), however, VAVR and TIVR normally remain relatively stable.

Important Notes

• Total serum iron-binding capacity (TIBC) is calculated as the sum of VVB and serum iron.
• With a lack of iron, its level drops, but the VVSS rises.

Also recommended

• Serum iron
• Iron-binding capacity of serum
• Ferritin
• Transferrin
• Hemoglobin
• Hematocrit
• Erythrocytes

Who orders the examination?

General practitioner, internist, hematologist, gastroenterologist, rheumatologist, nephrologist, surgeon.

Serum iron-binding capacity

Serum iron-binding capacity (IBC) is a measure of the amount of iron that the blood can carry.

Synonyms Russian

Total iron-binding capacity of serum, TIBC.

Synonyms English

Test method

Kinetic colorimetric method.

Units

µmol/l (micromoles per litre).

What biomaterial can be used for research?

Venous blood.

How to properly prepare for an examination?

1. Do not eat for 8 hours before the test, you can drink pure non-carbonated water.
2. Exclude physical and emotional overexertion 30 minutes before the study.
3. Do not smoke for 30 minutes before the test.

General information about the study

Iron is an important trace element in the human body. It is part of the hemoglobin that fills red blood cells and allows them to carry oxygen from the lungs to organs and tissues. Iron is part of the muscle protein myoglobin and some enzymes. It is absorbed from food and then carried around the body by transferrin, a special protein that is formed in the liver.

Normally, the body contains 4-5 g of iron, about 3-4 mg (0.1% of the total amount in the body) circulates in the blood “in conjunction” with transferrin. The amount of transferrin depends on the functioning of the liver and on the nutrition of the person. Normally, 1/3 of the binding centers of transferrin are filled with iron, the remaining 2/3 remain in reserve. To determine the total iron-binding capacity of blood serum, a certain amount of iron is added to the test serum until all transferrin binding centers are filled. The total amount of iron bound to transferrin is then measured. It characterizes the degree of lack of serum iron and actually reflects the amount of transferrin in the blood.

When iron is deficient, there is more transferrin in the body so that this protein can bind to a small amount of iron in the serum. Accordingly, the “unoccupied” iron transferrin, that is, the latent iron-binding ability of serum, also increases.

Conversely, with an excess of iron, almost all the binding centers of transferrin are occupied by this trace element, so the latent iron-binding capacity of the serum is reduced.

The amount of serum iron can vary significantly from day to day and even within the same day (especially in the morning), but the FBC remains relatively stable in the norm.

What is research used for?

The TIBC test is usually given in conjunction with serum iron, sometimes with latent serum iron-binding capacity and transferrin, to determine the amount of iron in the body and its association with blood proteins. These studies allow you to calculate the percentage of saturation of transferrin with iron, that is, to determine exactly how much iron the blood carries. This indicator most accurately characterizes the exchange of iron.

The purpose of these tests is to diagnose iron deficiency or excess. In patients with anemia, they can determine whether the disease is due to iron deficiency or other causes, such as chronic disease or vitamin B deficiency ₁₂ . Interestingly, when there is a lack of iron, its level drops, but the FBC increases.

These tests are also done if iron poisoning or hereditary hemochromatosis is suspected, a disease associated with increased absorption and accumulation of iron in the body. With it, the concentration of iron in the serum increases, and the FBC decreases or remains normal.

When is the test ordered?

• When there are any abnormalities in the complete blood count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, red blood cell count (together with the serum iron test).
• If iron deficiency or excess is suspected.
• Iron deficiency may not cause any symptoms in the early stages. If a person is otherwise healthy, then the disease can only make itself felt when hemoglobin drops below 100 g / l. Usually these are complaints of weakness, fatigue, dizziness, headaches.
• With a severe lack of iron, there is shortness of breath, pain in the chest and head, weakness in the legs. Some have a desire to eat unusual foods (chalk, clay), burning of the tip of the tongue, cracks in the corners of the mouth. Children may have learning difficulties.
• TIA and other tests that reflect iron metabolism may be ordered if iron overload (hemochromatosis) is suspected. This condition manifests itself in many ways, such as pain in the joints or in the abdomen, weakness, fatigue, decreased sex drive, and heart rhythm disturbances.
• When monitoring the effectiveness of the treatment of iron deficiency or excess.

What do the results mean?

Reference values: 45.3 – 77.1 µmol/l.

The interpretation of the results of the analysis for TIBC is usually made taking into account other indicators that evaluate iron metabolism.

Causes of increased FBC

• Anemia is the most common cause of iron deficiency. It is usually caused by chronic blood loss or insufficient consumption of meat products.
• Third trimester of pregnancy. In this case, the level of iron in the serum decreases due to an increase in the need for it.
• Acute hepatitis.

Causes of low TIBC

1. Chronic diseases: systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, tuberculosis, bacterial endocarditis, Crohn’s disease, etc.
2. Hypoproteinemia associated with malabsorption, chronic liver disease, burns. A decrease in the amount of protein in the body leads, among other things, to a drop in the level of transferrin, which reduces TIBC.
3. Hereditary hemochromatosis. With this disease, too much iron is absorbed from food, the excess of which is deposited in various organs, causing their damage.
4. Thalassemia is a hereditary disease leading to anemia, in which the structure of hemoglobin is changed.
5. Cirrhosis of the liver.
6. Glomerulonephritis – inflammation of the kidneys.
7. Multiple blood transfusions, intramuscular iron administration, inadequate dosage of prescribed iron preparations.

What can influence the result?

• Estrogens, oral contraceptives lead to an increase in TI.
• ACTH, corticosteroids, testosterone may decrease TI.

Important Notes

• Serum iron levels can vary significantly from day to day and even within the same day (especially in the morning), but the TIBC remains relatively stable in normal conditions.