This week I would like to speak about how we increase our blood health.
Notes
Blood Health https://www.drkarunhematology.com/blog/maintaining-blood-health/
Symptoms overlap
- Fatigue and weakness
- Pale skin
- Shortness of breath
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Frequent infections
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Enlarged spleen or liver
Blood diseases
cancer: leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma.
https://www.google.com/search?q=damaged+blood+diseases&rlz=1C5CHFA_enUS706US709&oq=damaged+blood+diseases&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIHCAEQIRigATIHCAIQIRigATIHCAMQIRigATIHCAQQIRigATIHCAUQIRigATIHCAYQIRifBTIHCAcQIRifBTIHCAgQIRifBTIHCAkQIRifBdIBCTY5NjhqMGoxNagCCLACAfEF7SNKjcxaF2A&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
Dark Field Microscopy is a microscopy technique that enhances the contrast of unstained samples by illuminating them with light that doesn’t directly enter the objective lens, resulting in a dark background and bright specimen.
Tests: https://www.google.com/search?q=tests+for+blood+disorders&rlz=1C5CHFA_enUS706US709&oq=tests+for+blood+disorders&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyCQgAEEUYORiABDIICAEQABgWGB4yCAgCEAAYFhgeMggIAxAAGBYYHjIICAQQABgWGB4yCAgFEAAYFhgeMggIBhAAGBYYHjIICAcQABgWGB4yCAgIEAAYFhgeMggICRAAGBYYHtIBCjEwMTgwajBqMTWoAgywAgHxBaaFis6t0eEe&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
Rouleaux (singular is rouleau) are stacks or aggregations of red blood cells (RBCs) that form because of the unique discoid shape of the cells in vertebrates.
Iron Profile
- Serum Iron: The amount of iron circulating in the blood.
- Total Iron-Binding Capacity (TIBC): Measures how well the body can transport iron, as it’s carried by a protein called transferrin.
- Transferrin Saturation: The percentage of transferrin that is carrying iron.
- Ferritin: Measures the amount of stored iron in the body.
1. Enzymes, B3, Turmeric, EFA’s, Certain supplements like iron (if needed) , vitamin C, B12, copper, Shilajit,
Vitamins that support increased red blood cell production or related processes:
- Vitamin B12: Essential for the formation of healthy red blood cells. It works with folic acid to ensure proper cell replication during RBC production. Dietary sources include meat, poultry, shellfish, eggs, and dairy products.
- Folic Acid (Vitamin B9): Necessary for the synthesis of new blood cells, including red blood cells. It plays a vital role in DNA synthesis and cell division.
- Vitamin C: Enhances iron absorption, which is crucial for hemoglobin production. It also plays a role in the formation of hemoglobin.
- Vitamin A: Plays a role in red blood cell production and overall immune function.
- Vitamin E: Protects red blood cells from oxidative damage and maintains their integrity.
- Copper: Helps in the production of red blood cells and the utilization of iron.
- Vitamin D: Studies suggest vitamin D may support erythropoiesis (the process of red blood cell formation).
Other Important Factors:
- Iron: A key component of hemoglobin, and therefore critical for red blood cell function.
- Zinc: May stimulate red blood cell formation.
- Diet: A balanced diet rich in these vitamins and iron is essential for maintaining healthy red blood cell levels.
2. Diet
- Focus on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains: These provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support healthy blood vessel function and reduce inflammation.
- Include iron-rich foods: Iron is crucial for hemoglobin production and preventing anemia. Good sources include red meat (in moderation), leafy greens, beans, and fortified cereals.
- Don’t forget foods rich in folate and B12: Folate (vitamin B9) and vitamin B12 are crucial for producing red blood cells. Include lentils, asparagus, leafy greens, avocados, eggs, and fortified products in your diet.
- Boost your Vitamin C intake: Vitamin C helps your body absorb iron better, according to Citizens Hospitals. Include oranges, kiwi, strawberries, bell peppers, broccoli, and tomatoes.
- Incorporate omega-3 rich foods: Fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and sardines are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation and support healthy blood flow, states Henry Ford Health.
- Consider spices like turmeric and ginger: These have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that benefit vascular health.
- Limit saturated and trans fats: These can contribute to plaque buildup in arteries.
- Reduce sodium intake: Too much salt can elevate blood pressure.
- Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol can negatively impact blood health and disrupt clotting mechanisms.
3. Exercise
- Engage in aerobic activities: Running, brisk walking, swimming, cycling, and dancing can strengthen your heart and improve blood circulation.
- Include strength training: This helps build muscle and can further enhance blood flow.
- Consider yoga: Yoga’s stretches and movements may compress and decompress blood vessels, potentially improving circulation.
- Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week, according to the UK government.
4. Stress Management
- Chronic stress can harm blood vessels and increase the risk of blood clots, says Michigan Vascular Center.
- Practice relaxation techniques: Try meditation, deep breathing, or yoga.
- Spend quality time with loved ones: This can help reduce stress levels.
5. Sleep
- Aim for at least seven hours of sleep per night for adults, suggests UChicago Medicine.
- Poor sleep can elevate blood pressure and increase inflammation, negatively affecting cardiovascular health, notes UCF Health.
6. Stop Smoking
7. Hydration
- Adequate water intake helps maintain blood viscosity and smooth blood flow, explains Dr. Karuna Kumar.
- Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day, suggests Dr. Karuna Kumar.
8. Weight
- Obesity puts strain on the cardiovascular system and can negatively impact blood health, warns Dr. Karuna Kumar.
9. Regular check-ups