Red blood cells have a lifespan of 120 days, after which new ones take their place. Over 2.4 million new red blood cells are produced every second by the bone marrow.
Vitamins B6, B12, folate, and iron play important roles in blood formation. Obtain adequate amounts of these nutrients by consuming a healthy, balanced diet consisting of a variety of foods that contain these substances. Deficiencies in vitamins A and B, as well as iron, can affect the body’s ability to transport oxygen to your cells and tissues and may cause anemia, with symptoms including fatigue and weakness.
Vitamin B6 is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to tissues and cells in the body. Vitamin B6 helps maintain the health of surrounding organs that produce white blood cells to fight infections.
Good sources of vitamin B6 include: fortified cereals, potatoes, bananas, chicken breast, pork, beef, trout, and sunflower seeds.
Vitamin B12 is essential for the synthesis of red blood cells in the bone marrow tissue.
Good sources of vitamin B12 include: liver, fortified breakfast cereals, trout, haddock, yogurt, milk, cheese, and eggs.
Folate is a B vitamin necessary for making red blood cells.
Rich sources of folate include: fortified breakfast cereals, beef liver, spinach, asparagus, beans, green peas, and broccoli.
Iron is an important component of hemoglobin. It helps transport and store oxygen in the body.
Sources of iron: chicken liver, oysters, beef, turkey, fortified breakfast cereals, soybeans, beets, egg yolk, lemons, beans, molasses, and spinach.
Iron deficiency is caused by insufficient intake of iron-rich foods, reduced iron absorption, blood loss, or rapid growth. Pregnant women, those of reproductive age, and children are at the highest risk of iron deficiency.
Beets are rich in iron, necessary for improving blood flow. They are a natural detoxifier, purifying the blood at the same time.
Leafy green vegetables: spinach, celery, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and lettuce are very healthy for the body. They help control weight and increase the number of red blood cells.
Anemic individuals are advised to consume fruits and leafy green vegetables. These are not only nutritious but also increase the number of red blood cells. Apricots, apples, grapes, prunes, and dried figs are particularly suitable.
