Albumin is one of the most important blood plasma proteins; it is the primary protein in the blood, accounting for approximately 60% of plasma proteins. Albumin is secreted by the liver, which produces 12 grams of it daily, meaning its daily percentage is estimated at 25% of the total proteins secreted by the liver. The largest portion of albumin is broken down in the liver. Blood serum contains 40% of albumin, while body fluids outside the blood vessels contain 60%. Therapeutic nutrition specialists have indicated that a deficiency in blood albumin levels causes many health problems, but if albumin levels drop, they can be increased again by following proper therapeutic nutrition methods.
Causes of Albumin Deficiency
Several factors lead to a decrease in albumin levels, including:
- Decreased consumption of amino acids resulting from following harsh diets.
- Occurrence of liver diseases such as viral hepatitis and liver cirrhosis.
- High blood sugar levels.
- Nephrotic syndrome, which occurs due to the excretion of large amounts of urine.
- Infection with malignant tumors.
- Pregnancy; albumin levels naturally decrease in the blood of pregnant women.
Therapeutic Nutrition Methods to Treat Albumin Deficiency
Therapeutic nutrition specialists confirmed that albumin deficiency can be treated by consuming foods that assist the liver in protein production, such as foods rich in proteins and amino acids.
Foods that Stimulate the Liver to Secrete Albumin
- Meat: It is recommended to eat red and white meats rich in protein materials.
- Legumes: Such as beans, peas, and chickpeas, which contain a high percentage of protein.
- Seafood: Of all kinds; it is among the best foods for liver stimulation.
- Nuts and Soy: These foods work to increase albumin levels in the blood.
- Dairy Products: They are among the best foods for stimulating albumin secretion.
- Fresh Vegetables: Such as spinach, turnip, broccoli, cabbage, green pepper, cucumber, parsley, and cauliflower.
See Also: Therapeutic Nutrition Diploma and Certified Health Courses.
