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Nutrition for Low Hgb From Chemo Treatments

A low hemoglobin (Hgb) level due to a reduced number of red blood cells is a side effect of chemotherapy that can make you extremely tired. Maintaining good nutritional habits while hemoglobin is low will help prevent health complications.

  1. Significance

    • Anti-cancer drugs can damage bone marrow, resulting in less production of red blood cells and hemoglobin, the substance in cells that carries oxygen throughout your body. When hemoglobin levels are low, your body works harder to get oxygen to your organs and tissues, informs Mayo Clinic.

    Effects

    • Anemia is a condition that results from low hemoglobin levels. A common side effect of anemia is fatigue, which is extreme tiredness that can make it difficult to do the activities of daily living, including preparing and eating meals.

    Solution

    • Getting proper amounts of protein, energy, vitamins and minerals through food helps keep up your strength, rebuild body tissues and prevent infections. Eating well also makes it easier to tolerate chemotherapy.

    Eating Tips

    • Eat small, frequent meals to increase intake when you lack an appetite, suggests the National Cancer Institute. Choose nutrition-dense foods, such as eggs, nut butters and cheese, to provide healthy amounts of energy and protein in smaller portions. Ask family and friends to help with meal preparation so that dinner time isn't exhausting.

    Other Treatment

    • You may receive medicine to build up your red blood cell and hemoglobin levels. Good nutrition helps relieve the symptoms caused by low counts and continues to benefit you when treatment ends.

    Warning

    • Anemia caused by chemotherapy is not nutrition induced. Taking iron pills or other supplements will not increase your low hemoglobin level and may be dangerous. Talk to your doctor about treatment options.

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