Benefits of low hemoglobin in high altitude populations
Tibetans living at high altitudes have red blood cell levels and
hemoglobin levels similar to those of lowlanders at sea level — and as
a consequence of the low oxygen levels at those altitudes, Tibetans
live with 10% less oxygen in their blood than most other people. Lower
oxygen levels might seem like a disadvantage, yet highland women have
fewer fertility problems than lowlanders living at high altitudes,
have better blood flow to the uterus during pregnancy, and deliver
heavier, healthier babies.
Can anyone explain how relatively lower oxygen levels can contribute to "better blood flow" etc. in higher altitude populations such as the Tibetans?
The article said it is unknown how exactly this may happen, but does anyone have an idea how it could be possible?
Read more here
Moore, L.G., D. Young, R.E. McCullough, T. Droma, and S. Zamudio. 2001. Tibetan protection from intrauterine grown restriction (IUGR) and reproductive loss at high altitude. American Journal of Human Biology 13:635-644.
Beall, C.M. 2003. High-altitude adaptations. The Lancet 362:14-15.
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