7 superfoods to improve blood count
From providing the body with oxygen and nutrients to eliminating waste, our blood cells perform various functions. Red blood cells carry oxygen to different body parts, while white blood cells and platelets help fight infections and clot blood during an injury. A person’s blood count indicates the number and type of blood cells in the body. Adding nutritious foods to meals is a simple way to maintain a healthy overall blood count.
Eggs
Eggs are a great food to improve blood count. A whole egg has about 1.9 mg of iron, which means it can considerably boost hemoglobin levels. Eggs also have high concentrations of folic acid, an essential component for an enhanced blood count.
Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamin A, an essential nutrient for producing T-cells, a type of blood cell essential for a healthy immune system. They also contain high levels of vitamin B6, necessary for maintaining red blood cell metabolism, and iron, which maintains hemoglobin levels. Thus, incorporating sweet potatoes into the nutrition plan can considerably enhance overall blood count.
Pomegranates
Loaded with iron and vitamins A, C, and K, pomegranate is one of the best fruits for increasing blood count. It also contains ascorbic acid, essential for boosting iron levels in the body. Unsurprisingly, adding pomegranates to the meal plan can help fight anemia and increase hemoglobin. This versatile fruit can be eaten directly or added to soups, juices, fruit salads, and smoothies.
Spinach
Spinach is among the most recommended foods to fight anemia and increase hemoglobin levels. Besides iron, it contains calcium and vitamins A, C, E, and B9, essential for positive results in the CBC (complete blood count) test. However, it is essential to note that cooked spinach provides more iron than when eaten raw; thus, it is a good idea to include this leafy green in gravies, soups, and snack dishes.
Tomatoes
Studies have shown that one tomato accounts for 40% of the required daily vitamin C intake. The fruit is also packed with potassium, iron, and vitamins A and K, which the body needs for optimal blood health. Further, tomatoes can increase hemoglobin levels significantly, positively affecting one’s overall blood count.
Beef
Beef is an excellent iron source. It contains heme iron, a variety of iron easily absorbed by the blood. Moreover, beef liver is one of the best sources of vitamin B12, which is essential for blood health and nutrition.
Beetroot
Beetroot is a vital source of iron, required to transport oxygen throughout the body. It also increases enzyme levels and the number of white blood cells in the body. In addition, it is rich in folic acid, fiber, and potassium and can enhance one’s blood count considerably.
Besides recommending healthy foods and encouraging individuals to maintain an active lifestyle, doctors may recommend other interventions to enhance blood count. Further, doctors might recommend a suitable treatment if a low blood count leads to health complications. For example, HEMLIBRA is prescribed to reduce bleeding in children and adults grappling with hemophilia A. However, it can have side effects and should be used only under the guidance of a healthcare professional.