How to Increase Red Blood Cell Count

Red blood cells are the most common component of the four that make up the blood in your body. A low red blood cell count most commonly indicates anemia. Symptoms include fatigue, feeling weak, pale skin, chest pain, dizziness and an increase in heart rate. However, if you don't have a condition causing your low count, you may simply lack iron in your diet. To increase your red blood cell count, you must therefore consume more iron-rich foods, as well as adopt a better diet overall.

Instructions

• 1

  Incorporate plenty of fruits and vegetables into your diet. Remember the food pyramid; after carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables are the most important part of your diet. To make sure that you're getting the most out of your diet, aim for at least two colors of fruits and vegetables (e.g., a red fruit and a purple fruit) and have at least five servings a day.

• 2

  Choose lean protein over fatty meats. While you might sacrifice some natural flavor, you will have a healthier meal overall. Remember, whatever flavor gets sacrificed here can easily be supplemented with spices.

• 3

  Consume foods that are rich in iron. These include dried fruits, oysters, dark red meat, whole grains and tuna. Your body can more easily absorb iron from these foods than it can from fruits and vegetables, although the latter two still offer a good amount.