A low red blood count, or anemia, can cause feelings of fatigue and weakness. When a person has a lower red blood count than is normal, their body has to work harder to get enough oxygen to the cells. A low red blood cell (RBC) count can cause a variety of symptoms and health complications. There are several diet and lifestyle changes people can make to help the body increase its RBC count. However, if symptoms continue, it is important to see a doctor. RBCs are the most common component of human blood. The cells contain hemoglobin, which is a protein that carries oxygen around the body. Hemoglobin is also responsible for blood’s red color. RBCs circulate the body for an average of 115 days. After this, they go to the liver, where they break down. The body recycles their nutrients back into the cells. The bone marrow continuously produces RBCs. If the body does not receive a regular supply of necessary nutrients, the RBCs may become malformed or die off at a faster rate than the body can replace them. A low RBC count usually occurs when a person does not eat enough essential nutrients. Eating more nutrient-dense foods can give the body the necessary tools to create functional RBCs.
