How can i increase my rbc count

This can cause symptoms such as bone and joint pain, severe headaches , and increased pressure within the brain. A doctor may advise a person with extremely low levels of hemoglobin to take iron supplements. It is important to note that too much iron can be dangerous. It may cause hemochromatosis , which can lead to liver disease and side effects such as constipation , nausea, and vomiting. Supplements will cause levels of iron to increase gradually over a few weeks.

Iron supplements are available for purchase online. Low hemoglobin is diagnosed when a man has less than It is possible to have naturally reduced hemoglobin levels without an underlying cause. Some may even have low hemoglobin and experience no symptoms or indications. Normal ranges are:. Appropriate hemoglobin levels for children vary depending on age. People with very low hemoglobin levels may need additional treatment if taking supplements and changing the diet do not show sufficient results.

Many people can boost their hemoglobin levels with dietary changes and supplements. Speak with a doctor to determine the correct supplement dosage. If hemoglobin levels remain low, a person may need further treatment, such as a blood transfusion. Depending on the cause of low hemoglobin and the treatments attempted, it may take up to a year for levels to reach a healthy range.

Eating more nutrient-dense foods can give the body the necessary tools to create functional RBCs. People can also take these essential vitamins and minerals as supplements, although it is best to get nutrients from healthful foods in the diet if possible.

It is best to consume foods that provide the following nutrients:. Iron is the nutrient with most links to anemia. The body uses iron to make hemoglobin, which stores oxygen in the blood cells. Without iron, these cells may die or become unable to send oxygen around the body.

Eating foods with plenty of iron can help prevent symptoms of anemia and nourish the blood. Good sources of iron include :. Vitamin B is important for brain function and creating new RBCs. Low vitamin B levels can prevent RBCs from fully maturing. A B deficiency can trigger the development of abnormal RBCs called megaloblasts, which may lead to a condition doctors call megaloblastic anemia. Vitamin B binds to protein in food and naturally occurs in red meat, fish, and shellfish.

Dairy products, such as milk and cheese, also contain vitamin B Manufacturers often fortify breakfast cereals, milk substitutes , and nutritional yeast with vitamin B Vitamin B-9 is also known as folic acid or folate.

It is an essential nutrient for the nervous system and adrenal glands. Folate also helps to create new cells in the body. People with low levels of folate may develop anemia. Foods high in folic acid include:. While vitamin C does not directly affect RBCs, it is still important, because it helps the body absorb more iron. Iron increases the number of RBCs that the body makes. Vitamin C occurs in a variety of foods, including :. Copper: There may also be a link between low RBC production and copper deficiency.

Women need 18 mg per day, and men need 8 mg per day. However, your daily copper requirement depends on a variety of factors, including sex, age, and body weight. Be sure to consult your doctor or a dietitian to understand how much you need. Vitamin A retinol : Women need micrograms mcg per day. For men, the recommendation increases to mcg. Vitamin B Most people who are 14 years and older need 2. Vitamin B-9 folic acid : The average person needs between and mcg per day.

Women who are pregnant need mcg per day. Vitamin B Women need about 1. Learn more: The benefits of vitamin E ». Keep up this balanced approach by cutting back on or eliminating alcoholic beverages. Excessive drinking may lower your RBC count. For women, this is defined as more than one drink in one day.

For men, this is more than two drinks in one day. Regular exercise is also beneficial. In addition to promoting overall wellness, exercise is key to RBC production. Vigorous exercise causes your body to need more oxygen. It may also signify internal bleeding, kidney disease or malnutrition where a person's diet doesn't contain enough nutrients to meet their body's needs. A high RBC count could be caused by a number of health conditions or health-related factors, including:.

Page last reviewed: 21 September Next review due: 21 September