Red blood cells transport oxygen throughout your blood and remove waste. Without red blood cells, you would eventually die. Red blood cells only have a lifespan of about 120 days, and your body continually produces new ones, but does rely on certain nutrients that allow for the production of these red blood cells. If you are deficient in these nutrients, your doctor may prescribe a supplement that contains one or more of them.
Iron
Iron is a nutrient that plays a role in the transport of oxygen by your red blood cells. Being deficient in iron could lead to anemia, which is characterized by symptoms of fatigue and weakness. These symptoms occur because your red blood cells need iron or they cannot oxygenate your blood efficiently. Women need 18 mg of iron each day and men need 8 mg. In addition to a supplement, spinach, beans and fortified cereals will help increase your intake.
Vitamin B-12
Vitamin B-12 is only available from animal foods, such as meat, eggs and milk. If you are a vegan, you are at risk of developing a deficiency. Getting enough B-12 allows your body to form red blood cells, which helps to prevent anemia. The daily intake recommendation for vitamin B-12 is 2.4 mcg; a supplement should contain most of this amount. In addition to animal foods, some fortified foods, eaten in conjunction with a supplement, can help ensure that you are getting adequate amounts.
Vitamin B-6
Vitamin B-6 is needed for healthy red blood cell metabolism. An inadequate intake could result in a form of anemia that is similar to iron-deficient anemia. B-6 helps produce hemoglobin in your red blood cells, which aids in efficient oxygen transport. Women need 1.5 mg of vitamin B-6 each day and men need 1.7 mg daily, which you can get through a supplement. In addition, adding baked potatoes, bananas and trout to your diet can increase your intake.
Vitamin E
Adults should get 15 mg of vitamin E each day, which helps your body form red blood cells. Some vitamin E supplements contain much more of this nutrient than is needed, reports the Office of Dietary Supplements, so be sure to talk with your doctor before taking one. Adding some vegetable oil, green vegetables and nuts to your diet is an alternate way to increase your vitamin E intake.
