Haemoglobin
Haematology marker
Haemoglobin
Category: Haematology
Unit: g/L
Oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells.
PED Notes
AAS stimulate erythropoiesis (red blood cell production), increasing haemoglobin. This is a significant cardiovascular risk as high haemoglobin increases blood viscosity, raising stroke and heart attack risk. Values >180 g/L are concerning and warrant immediate intervention. EQ (Boldenone) is particularly notorious for raising haemoglobin.
Lifestyle:
- Donate blood regularly (every 12 weeks) if levels exceed 175 g/L
- Increase hydration (3-4L/day)
- Consider reducing testosterone dosage
- Grapefruit/Naringin -- may mildly help
- Monitor blood pressure alongside -- high viscosity raises BP
References:
- Bachman, E., Travison, T. G., Basaria, S., et al. (2014). Testosterone induces erythrocytosis via increased erythropoietin and suppressed hepcidin. The Journals of Gerontology: Series A, 69(6), 725-735. DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glt154
- Marchioli, R., Finazzi, G., Specchia, G., et al. (2013). Cardiovascular events and intensity of treatment in polycythemia vera. New England Journal of Medicine, 368(1), 22-33. DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa1208500
- Robbins, R. C., Martin, F. G., & Roe, J. M. (1988). Ingestion of grapefruit lowers elevated hematocrits in human subjects. International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research, 58(4), 414-417. PubMed: 3243695
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Frequently Asked Questions
Reference Ranges
Standard Range
130 - 170 g/L
VitalMetrics Range
130 - 180 g/L