Red blood cells (RBCs) are the most common type of blood cell and are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. Increasing the number of RBCs in your body can be beneficial for people who have anemia or are prone to fatigue. There are several ways to increase the number of RBCs in your system, such as eating a healthy diet, taking supplements, exercising, and getting adequate rest.
Diet
Eating a healthy, balanced diet is essential for increasing RBCs. Foods that are rich in iron, folate, and vitamin B-12 can help increase RBCs. Foods that are high in iron include red meat, poultry, fish, and legumes. Foods that are high in folate include leafy green vegetables, orange juice, and asparagus. Vitamin B-12 can be found in dairy products, eggs, and fortified cereals.
Supplements
Taking supplements can also help increase RBCs. Iron supplements, such as ferrous sulfate and ferrous gluconate, can help increase RBCs. Folic acid and vitamin B-12 supplements can also be beneficial. It is important to speak with your doctor before taking any supplements to make sure they are safe for you.
Exercise
Regular exercise can also help increase RBCs. Exercise increases the amount of oxygen that is delivered to the body, which can help increase RBCs. Exercising for 30 minutes a day, five times a week, is recommended for optimal health.
Rest
Getting adequate rest is also important for increasing RBCs. When the body is rested, it is better able to produce RBCs. Getting at least seven to eight hours of sleep a night is recommended for optimal health.
Increasing the number of RBCs in the body can be beneficial for people who have anemia or are prone to fatigue. Eating a healthy diet, taking supplements, exercising, and getting adequate rest can help increase the number of RBCs in the body. It is important to speak with your doctor before taking any supplements to make sure they are safe for you.
