HIGH HEMATOCRIT: HOW CAN IT BE REDUCED

Hello, I’m Flora Loukianou, clinical dietitian and sports nutritionist. Today, we’ll talk about high hematocrit levels and how we can reduce them.

What is hematocrit?

Hematocrit is the percentage of red blood cells in your total blood volume. Red blood cells are essential for transporting oxygen to the body’s tissues via the bloodstream.

Normal hematocrit ranges are:

• Men: 39% – 50%

• Women: 37% – 48%

• Newborns: >32%

• Children (2–12 years): 32% – 42%

• Adolescents: 34% – 48%

What causes elevated hematocrit levels?

High hematocrit is often observed in cases of dehydration. Once the body receives sufficient fluids, levels typically return to normal.

In some cases, elevated hematocrit may indicate an increased number of red blood cells in the blood,a condition known as polycythemia. This causes the blood to become thicker and more prone to clotting.

Polycythemia is associated with high blood pressure and an increased risk of thrombosis, cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes.

Other causes of elevated hematocrit include:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Lung disorders
• Bone marrow disease
• Smoking and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Testosterone therapy

Which foods should you prefer or avoid to help lower hematocrit levels?

 Matcha & Green Tea

Green tea and particularly matcha (from the Camellia sinensis plant) may reduce iron absorption and thus lower hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. Their polyphenols interfere with iron absorption, and aluminum present in tea competes with iron, further inhibiting its uptake.

One study showed that drinking tea with meals can reduce iron absorption by up to 62%.

1.Grapefruit:

Studies suggest that consuming half to a whole grapefruit daily may help lower hematocrit levels. This is due to naringenin, a flavonoid found in grapefruit, which can reduce red blood cell levels.

However, because grapefruit juice can interact with many medications, consult your doctor before adding it to your diet.

2. Oat Bran:

Oat bran has been shown to reduce iron absorption. Research indicates that oat-based products significantly hinder the absorption of non-heme iron.

3. Vitamin C:

Foods rich in vitamin C,such as lemons, oranges, peppers, and tomatoes, boost iron absorption and can raise hemoglobin levels. If you’re trying to reduce hematocrit, it’s best to moderate these foods.

Additional tips to lower high hematocrit levels:

• Stay hydrated. Dehydration can elevate hematocrit, so aim to drink at least 8–10 glasses of water daily.
• Quit smoking. Smoking reduces oxygen levels in the blood, prompting the body to produce more red blood cells and raising hematocrit.
• Avoid alcohol.
• Donate blood. Blood donation helps remove excess iron and encourages fresh blood cell production.
• Avoid iron supplements.
• Exercise in moderation. While regular activity is beneficial, excessive exercise may raise hematocrit levels.

Certain medications may also help reduce hematocrit levels:

• ACE inhibitors (used for hypertension)
• Aspirin
• Ibuprofen
• Desmopressin
• Glycerol
• Metformin

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