How long does it take your body to make new blood?
Your body continuously makes new blood cells through a process called hematopoiesis. The time it takes for your body to produce new blood cells depends on the type of blood cell.
- Red blood cells: Red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow and have a lifespan of about 120 days.
- White blood cells: White blood cells are also produced in the bone marrow and have a lifespan that varies depending on the type of white blood cell. Neutrophils, which are the most common type of white blood cell, have a lifespan of about 10 days.
- Platelets: Platelets are produced in the bone marrow and have a lifespan of about 10 days.