What It Measures
This test measures the concentration of hemoglobin protein in your blood, reported in grams per deciliter (g/dL). It reflects your body's ability to carry oxygen to cells and tissues, which is essential for energy production, organ function, and exercise capacity.
Hemoglobin is an iron-containing protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to tissues and returning carbon dioxide for exhalation. It is a fundamental marker of oxygen-carrying capacity and overall blood health, making it one of the most commonly ordered lab tests in medicine.
Current Value
What High Means
Elevated hemoglobin (polycythemia) can indicate dehydration, chronic hypoxia (from lung disease, sleep apnea, or high altitude living), polycythemia vera (a bone marrow disorder), smoking, testosterone use or abuse, congenital heart disease, or kidney tumors producing excess erythropoietin. High hemoglobin increases blood viscosity, raising the risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attack.
Possible Symptoms
Headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, flushing or ruddy complexion, itching (especially after warm showers), enlarged spleen, fatigue, joint pain, excessive sweating, increased blood clot risk
What Low Means
Low hemoglobin (anemia) can result from iron deficiency (most common cause worldwide), vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, chronic kidney disease (reduced erythropoietin production), chronic inflammation, bone marrow disorders, blood loss (menstruation, GI bleeding), hemolytic anemias, thalassemia, or chronic diseases. Low hemoglobin impairs oxygen delivery, causing fatigue, weakness, and reduced exercise tolerance.
Possible Symptoms
Fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, dizziness or lightheadedness, cold hands and feet, brittle nails, headaches, rapid or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, poor exercise tolerance, pica (craving non-food items like ice)
Risk Factors
Iron deficiency anemia, vitamin B12 deficiency, folate deficiency, chronic kidney disease, thalassemia, sickle cell disease, polycythemia vera, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), sleep apnea, heart failure, gastrointestinal bleeding, heavy menstruation, bone marrow failure, lead poisoning, chronic inflammation
Actionable Advice
Supplements
- •Iron bisglycinate
- •Vitamin C (enhances iron absorption)
- •Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin)
- •Folate (5-MTHF)
- •Copper
- •Vitamin B6
- •Vitamin A
- •Chlorophyll
- •Spirulina
- •Beetroot extract
Diet & Lifestyle
- •Eat iron-rich foods: red meat, organ meats, dark leafy greens, legumes, and fortified cereals
- •Pair iron-rich foods with vitamin C sources to enhance absorption
- •Avoid drinking coffee or tea with meals (tannins inhibit iron absorption)
- •Address underlying causes of blood loss (e.g., heavy periods, GI issues)
- •Engage in regular moderate exercise to stimulate red blood cell production
- •Ensure adequate sleep and treat sleep apnea if present
- •Avoid smoking, which artificially elevates hemoglobin
- •Stay well-hydrated to avoid falsely elevated readings
- •Cook in cast iron cookware to increase dietary iron intake
- •Get tested for celiac disease or H. pylori if iron deficiency is persistent despite supplementation
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Historical Trend
Related Biomarkers
Resources & Studies
All Readings
| Date | Value | Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2026-01-28 | 15.6 g/dL | -1.2 |
| 2025-09-18 | 16.8 g/dL | +0.1 |
| 2025-08-25 | 16.7 g/dL | +0.5 |
| 2025-07-31 | 16.2 g/dL | +1.6 |
| 2025-06-27 | 14.6 g/dL | — |