Red Blood Cells are one of the essential blood cells in your body. It is believed that the average human being has about 20 trillion red blood cells. These cells transport oxygen to every cell, so you can easily understand its critical role. Sometimes, though, your counts can fall, leaving you wondering how you can increase your levels. So what can you do?
Increasing Red Blood Cells
First, it is useful to look at something called EPO. Erythropoietin or EPO is a naturally occurring hormone that helps stimulate the production of RBC. Produced by the kidney, it travels to your bone marrow where it stimulates the production of RBC.
EPO, in turn, is created when you consume sufficient calories (hint – don’t diet), especially carbohydrates. Also, the production of hormones in the thyroid, especially T3 helps the production of EPO. The consumption of Vitamin B6 and B12, Folic Acid, Vitamin A, Selenium and Copper all help in the production of EPO.
Next look at the consumption of iron in your diet. Low iron levels, also known as anaemia, is a common problem. If you resorted to medication to treat this problem, you already know that the side effect can be constipation. Instead, look at natural ways to increase your iron levels. Adequate iron stimulates the production of red blood cells.
Some people suffer from poor absorption of iron. You are eating enough, but your body is unable to absorb it. If you have Celiac’s disease, for example, your ability to absorb iron can be hindered. Also, a lack of adequate bile salts, produced by the liver can result in poor iron absorption.
It is well documented that non-vegetarian food is a better source of iron, especially something known as heme-iron. However, even a vegetarian diet, such as green vegetables can provide iron; you need to eat more of it.
Finally, exercise stimulates the production of RBC. When you exercise, your body needs more oxygen, which sends a signal to your body to produce more oxygen-carrying cells. There you go – more Red Blood Cells!
