Does your test results show that you have low Albumin levels in the body? If yes, then you must be looking for ways to increase your albumin levels. Read this article to learn what low levels of albumin indicate and how to overcome this condition.
Albumin is one of the essential proteins in the body that helps maintain the osmotic pressure in the body and helps in the distribution of essential substances like drugs, medications and hormones through the blood to all across the body. It is produced by the liver and also plays a very important in transporting the essential fatty acids from the fats cells to the muscle cells. It is because of these qualities that the albumin is so important in the human body. Low levels of albumin can be an indication of various underlying health conditions like kidney problems, liver diseases or Crohn’s disease. Your doctor would usually advice you to go for the albumin serum test if you are experiencing signs and symptoms of the aforementioned conditions. On a lighter note, low albumin levels can also be an indication of a low protein diet, albumin being a type of protein in itself. I am guessing that you have been diagnosed with low levels of albumin and that is why you are looking for ways to increase their levels.
Diet and Supplements to Increase Albumin Levels
Well, the normal range of albumin in the body is within 3.4 – 5.4 grams per deciliter (g/dL). However, if you have been surgically treated recently, or had a weight loss surgery, then the albumin levels tend to become lower than normal. It is important for you to keep the range within the normal parameters as too much of albumin is also not good for your body. On the other hand, low levels may affect your body’s ability to heal as albumin has coagulating properties which helps in binding the elements of blood plasma and prevent the fluid from leaking out. Albumin levels can be effectively increased through supplements and diet. A diet that contains protein rich foods, especially foods that are rich in albumin including egg whites and hemp seeds should be consumed to increase the protein levels in the body. Consuming a lot of milk, cream and other daily products along with carbohydrates would prove to be useful in this condition.
If your albumin levels are low, then you need a well-planned protein rich diet which should be consumed on a regular basis. If the reason behind your decreased albumin is a health condition wherein your liver is unable to produce adequate amount of this water soluble protein, then you need to consult with a nutritionist regarding the same and make sure that you are consuming the right foods. Understand that the protein requirement for each and every individual varies depending upon their weight, height and other health conditions. A nutritionist will actually evaluate all these factors and come up with a well-planned diet menu for you.
Though, the intake of a right diet will actually help in increasing the protein levels gradually, there will not be instant results. If your health condition demands increase in albumin levels instantly, then you might have to consume supplements containing this protein. Many times, the healthcare specialist would also give you shots of this protein. In case of liver problems like hepatitis or cirrhosis, a blood transfusion may be needed to supply the required amount of albumin in your blood. Apart from that, your doctor may also advice you certain drugs and medications like androgens and anabolic steroids which can increase the level of albumin in the body. Nevertheless, the exact requirement would actually depend upon the cause behind the low levels, which can be diagnosed only under the guidance of a trusted healthcare provider.
