“Blood-producing” – this is how the name hematogen is translated from Greek, a taste familiar to us since childhood. Its main active component is albumin protein, obtained from purified bovine blood. The product contains a significant amount of animal fats, fat-soluble vitamins, easily digestible sugars, and essential amino acids. Hematogen is especially beneficial due to its high content of ferrous iron, which is absorbed very quickly.
History
In the 19th century, it was discovered that fatigue, weakness, and dysfunction of many organs were the result of blood loss and low iron levels. Insufficient iron intake leads to reduced hemoglobin levels and poorer oxygen transport in the body. Scientists began searching for a remedy to increase hemoglobin levels in the blood – the protein responsible for oxygen transport.
The year 1890 marked the appearance of a mixture made from bovine blood and egg yolk – the predecessor of modern hematogen. Since the 1920s, hematogen has also been produced in Russia. It became especially popular during the Second World War as a supportive product for wounded soldiers. In the difficult post-war years, it was widely given to children to enrich their diet and restore normal iron levels. However, at that time it did not taste very good, so sugar and other ingredients were added to improve taste and texture.
There is no need to worry about whole bovine blood in hematogen: this technology has not been used since the 1950s. Today, the product is made from defibrinated dried cattle blood, preserving all beneficial substances in an easily absorbable form.
How to choose hematogen?
In its “classic” form, the product consists of black food-grade albumin, sugar, condensed milk, starch syrup, and vanillin. However, each manufacturer develops its own recipe, so sometimes the product becomes just a candy, with only the name “hematogen” remaining. Therefore, it is better to buy it from trusted producers.
One such manufacturer is the company “Exon”. The company’s history began in 1995. All products are manufactured at its own GMP-standard production facility. Raw materials are carefully selected, and quality is controlled by accredited laboratories. The product line includes hematogen for children and adults with various additives: flaxseed, dried apricots, prunes, cranberries, chocolate glaze, and more. These additions improve taste, increase nutritional value, and enhance iron absorption.
Benefits for children
Hematogen is especially beneficial for children. It helps compensate for nutritional deficiencies as it is rich in vitamins, proteins, and trace elements. It is one of the most accessible sources of bioavailable iron. It can be given from the age of 3. Regular use helps eliminate symptoms of iron deficiency such as fatigue, irritability, poor sleep and appetite, and tiredness. It also helps children cope better with school and extracurricular activities and prevents iron-deficiency anemia.
Benefits for adults
Hematogen has a general strengthening and preventive effect on the body. It is used as a supplementary aid in the prevention and treatment of various conditions. Regular consumption increases hemoglobin levels and normalizes blood formation processes. It is also a source of essential amino acids needed for proper body function. It is especially useful for preventing anemia, reducing fatigue, and supporting mental and physical workload.
Contraindications are minimal: diabetes mellitus and individual intolerance.
