printHow to increase red blood cells
How to boost those red blood cells!
In today's busy world everyone feels tired and run down from time to time. But if you're feeling permanently drained and exhausted you may be suffering from anaemia. Luckily this condition can be easily remedied with iron tablets and an improved diet.
What is anaemia?
Anaemia is the condition caused by a lack of red blood cells, which carry oxygen around the body, or by red blood cells being unable to carry as much oxygen as usual. Symptoms of anaemia include tiredness, a lack of energy, and feeling faint or breathless.
What causes it?
The most common cause of anaemia is iron deficiency. Vegetarians tend to suffer more than meat eaters, as red meat is one of the best food sources of iron. Pregnant women and women with particularly periods may also become anaemic.
How to combat anaemia
If you think you may have anaemia it's worth going to see your GP and asking for a blood test to confirm it. If you are anaemic, you'll be given iron tablets to help raise your red blood cell count.
Whether you're confirmed as anaemic, or are simple run down and tired, it's crucial that you improve your diet to include plenty of iron rich food. As mentioned above, red meat is one of the best sources, but vegetarians, don't despair! Here are some great vegetarian alternatives:
- Nuts
- Tofu
- Leafy green vegetables
- Very dark chocolate
- Eggs
- Figs and other dried fruit
- Sardines, pilchards and whitebait
Kick start each day's iron intake by having a bowl of fortified cereal for breakfast. Also, it's good idea to have a glass of orange juice or side salad with your meals - these contain lots of vitamin C which increases iron absorption.
