How can you increase your hematocrit levels?

As a hematologist, I can provide you with some evidence-based strategies to increase your hematocrit levels. Hematocrit is the percentage of the total blood volume that is made up of red blood cells (RBCs). A low hematocrit can be indicative of anemia, which is a condition where your body lacks enough healthy RBCs to carry an adequate amount of oxygen to your body's tissues. Here are some steps you can take to increase your hematocrit levels: 1. Iron-Rich Foods: Consuming more iron-rich foods is one of the most common recommendations. This includes red meat, especially liver, as it is high in heme iron which is more easily absorbed by the body. Other good sources of iron include fish and shellfish like oysters, clams, shrimp, and scallops. 2. Dried Fruits: Dried fruits such as apricots, prunes, and peaches are also rich in iron and can be a good addition to your diet. 3. Green Leafy Vegetables: These are not only good for overall health but also contain iron and other nutrients that can support RBC production. 4. Legumes: Beans and other legumes are a good source of non-heme iron. 5. Fortified Foods: Iron-fortified breads and cereals can also help increase your iron intake. 6. Vitamin C: Consuming vitamin C-rich foods or taking vitamin C supplements can enhance iron absorption from plant-based sources. 7. Avoidance of Certain Substances: Certain substances can inhibit iron absorption, such as calcium and tannins found in tea and coffee. It's best to avoid these when consuming iron-rich meals. 8. Medical Consultation: It's important to consult with a healthcare provider before making significant dietary changes, especially if you're considering supplements. 9. Regular Check-ups: Regular blood tests can monitor your hematocrit levels and help adjust your treatment plan as needed. Remember, it's crucial to approach this under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure that any increase in hematocrit is safe and appropriate for your individual health needs.

What can I do to increase my low hematocrit? Increasing the consumption of red meat (liver in particular), fish and shellfish (oysters, clams, shrimp, and scallops), dried fruit (apricots, prunes, and peaches), green leafy vegetables, beans, iron fortified breads and cereals, all rich in iron, may help.