| Haemoglobin | |||||
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Hemoglobin (also written as hemoglobin) is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to every cell in the body via the arteries.
Haemoglobin is made up of:
- Haeme (or heme) - contains iron ions and
- Globin - contains serum proteins
- The iron is haemoglobin is responsible for the red colour of blood
- Low haemoglobin levels in otherwise healthy individuals normally indicate some type of anaemia
Haemoglobin is important as it allows all cells to breath. Without oxygen the cells would die.
Normal levels of haemoglobin in adults are:
- Male: 13.8 to 17.2 gm/dL
- Female: 12.1 to 15.1 gm/dL
Last reviewed: 14 January 2007 || Last updated: 21 August 2007
Related Articles
references
- Marieb EM, Hoehn K. Human Anatomy & Physiology. 7th edition, 2006. Benjamin Cummings Publishing
- Tortora GJ, Derrickson BH. Principles of Anatomy & Physiology. 11th edition, 2005. Wiley Publishing
To learn more, go to the following web sites:
- HealthFirst ACT (Australia)
NOTE: Mega doses of any type of vitamin, mineral, amino acid or herbal supplement cannot cure illnesses and in fact can be very dangerous and produce toxic side effects and interfere with medicine you are taking. Always ensure you consult your doctor before taking any type of complementary supplements.
Disclaimer: This guide is not intended to be used for diagnostic or prescriptive purposes. For any treatment or diagnosis of illness, please see your doctor.
