Hemoglobin: The Good, the Bad, Tests, and Normal Values

[Nelson Vergel]

Hemoglobin is an extremely important protein. As an essential part of red blood cells, it delivers oxygen to all parts of the body. In this post (Part 1), we go over health benefits, roles, and harms of hemoglobin. In addition, we discuss hemoglobin lab tests, normal values, and reference ranges.
CONTENTS [HIDE]

• Hemoglobin Series
• Introduction
  • Hemoglobin Structure
  • Hemoglobin Function
  • Hemoglobin Types
  • Hemoglobin Metabolism
• Hemoglobin Testing
• Normal Hemoglobin Levels
• Hemoglobin – The Good
  • 1) Hemoglobin Supplies Tissues with Oxygen
  • 2) Hemoglobin Expands Blood Vessels
  • 3) Hemoglobin Is Important for Cognitive Function
  • 4) Hemoglobin Is Important for Immunity
  • 5) Healthy Hemoglobin Levels Reduce Risks of Postpartum Depression
  • 6) Hemoglobin Improves Odds in Diseases
  • 7) Hemoglobin-Derived Peptides Act As Opiates
• Hemoglobin – The Bad
  • 1) Hemoglobin Increases Oxidative Stress
  • 2) Hemoglobin Increases Inflammation
  • 3) Hemoglobin Increases the Risk of Blood Clots
  • 4) Free Hemoglobin May Contribute to the Hardening of the Arteries
  • 5) High Hemoglobin Elevates Blood Pressure
  • 6) High Hemoglobin May Contribute to Metabolic Syndrome
  • 7) High Hemoglobin Impairs Cognitive Function
  • 8) Free Hemoglobin Exacerbates Diseases
  • 9) Free Hemoglobin Adversely Affects Blood Transfusion
• Hemoglobin Series