How to Raise Low Haemoglobin (HB) During Pregnancy: Food and Supplements
Yes — a low HB (haemoglobin) reading in pregnancy can be raised: aim for at least 11 g/dL by combining iron-rich foods with the right supplement routine. During pregnancy your blood volume expands rapidly to support your baby, which is why iron-deficiency anaemia is common.
Why Your HB Reading Matters
Keeping haemoglobin (HB) at 11 g/dL or above is critical. As your blood volume expands rapidly to support your baby, your iron needs rise too — that is why iron-deficiency anaemia so often occurs during pregnancy.
The Dangers of Low HB
With low HB, you are more likely to feel dizzy and fatigued, and you are at risk of bleeding. Your baby, meanwhile, may be born prematurely. Monitoring your HB reading at every antenatal appointment is therefore important.
Iron-Rich Foods
- Heme-iron sources: lean red meat, chicken liver, cockles.
- Non-heme iron sources: dark leafy greens, legumes, red dates, chickpeas.
Combine both types in your daily meals for a complete iron intake.
Rules When Taking Iron Tablets
- Take with vitamin C — have your tablets with orange juice to help absorption.
- Keep away from milk and caffeine — leave at least 2 hours between milk or coffee and your iron tablets.
When to See Your Doctor
If you often feel dizzy or persistently fatigued, or your HB reading stays low at antenatal check-ups, speak to your doctor or midwife. They will assess your situation and suggest the next steps — never change your supplement dose or how you take it on your own. Understand the difference between folic acid, New Obimin and Zincofer so you know what your doctor has prescribed to tackle anaemia. Also check the foods to avoid during pregnancy because some choices can affect iron absorption.
This article is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult your doctor or midwife.
References
- World Health Organization (WHO).
Frequently Asked Questions
What HB level should I aim for during pregnancy?
Having a haemoglobin (HB) level of at least 11 g/dL is critical during pregnancy.
Why is low HB dangerous for mother and baby?
Mothers are more likely to feel dizzy and fatigued and are at risk of bleeding, while babies may be born prematurely.
Which foods are high in iron?
Heme-iron sources include lean red meat, chicken liver and cockles. Non-heme iron sources include dark leafy greens, legumes, red dates and chickpeas.
What is the correct way to take iron tablets?
Take them with vitamin C, for example orange juice, and keep milk and coffee at least 2 hours apart from the tablets.