Red blood cells oxygenate tissues throughout the body while also expelling carbon dioxide via the lungs, which makes them vital to bodily function. Iron, B12, and folate are essential for producing red blood cells, and without these nutrients, lots of health issues can occur. Here is how each nutrient works to support red blood cell production and what you can do if your levels of certain nutrients are lacking.
Iron is a crucial mineral for bodily function. Along with being a component of important proteins, it plays a significant role in the production of haemoglobin, which is a type of protein found in red blood cells. The iron present in haemoglobin allows it to absorb oxygen, which is then carried all throughout the body.
Vitamin B12 is essential in the formation of red blood cells. Consider that a person who is deficient in B12 will lack a healthy amount of red blood cells, which can lead to anaemia. Vitamin B12 also helps with nerve function, biochemical reactions within cells, and the generation of DNA.
Along with B12, folate is another type of B vitamin essential to the blood. And like B12, folate is also vital for the production of red blood cells. When the vitamin is lacking, a person can develop megaloblastic anaemia, which causes red blood cells to become bigger and misshapen, while also having a shorter life expectancy.
While lacking iron, B12, and folate can lead to unwanted health effects, it may be possible to boost levels with medical treatments, dietary changes, and supplements:
In some cases, the above supplements will only need to be taken on a temporary basis. In others, supplements might become an ongoing part of your life.