If you are diagnosed with a low blood count, you have lower than normal levels of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. Low red and white blood cell count are the more urgent problems. Luckily, there are many natural ways to improve levels of both of these.
Step 1
Red blood cells, or erythrocytes, carry oxygen around the body. Although it is possible for red blood cell counts to be too high, low red blood cell count is a much more common complaint. Low red blood cell count can be caused by deficiencies in copper, iron, vitamin B12 or vitamin B6. The more red blood cells you have, the more work your body can do. For this reasons, athletes may try to raise their red blood cell count.
Step 2
Exercise is the safest and most effective way to increase your red blood cell count. Time spent exercising uses up oxygen faster than time spent being sedentary, and this increased demand causes the body to produce more red blood cells. If you exercise at higher altitudes, this is even more effective. Ensure that your iron, B12 and B6 levels are adequate -- red blood cells cannot be produced without adequate amounts of these essential nutrients.
Step 3
White blood cells, or leucocytes, make up a major part of the immune system and defend the body against disease. There are several types of white blood cell. Some types of white blood cells attack viruses, fungi and bacteria when they enter the body and others target parasites. Other white blood cells create smaller cells which make antibodies to fight infection. People who have had chemotherapy and people who are HIV positive are more likely to have lowered white blood cell counts, and so are more susceptible to infection. Stress and a bad diet can also lower white blood cell counts.
Step 4
Eat a lot of fruit and vegetables, as the phytochemicals in colored fruit and vegetables are essential to make white blood cells. Five servings is the minimum recommended intake for adults according to the US Department of Agriculture. Green tea contains an antioxidant called catechin, which stimulates the production of white blood cells. Ginger and garlic may also boost production of white blood cells. Exercise boosts both red and white blood cells. A good multivitamin containing zinc may also help.
