Does red blood cell production normally decrease with age?
Indeed, as we age, our bodies produce fewer red blood cells on average. Changes in the bone marrow, which produces red blood
cells, are the main cause of this decline. The aging process causes a decrease in the generation of red blood cells due to many
factors: Changes in Bone Marrow: The bone marrow's ability to produce blood cells, particularly red blood cells, declines with
age. There might be a drop in the creation of new blood cells, which would reduce the overall quantity of red blood cells in
circulation. Diminished Renal Function: Erythropoietin is a hormone that the kidneys make that causes the bone marrow to create more red blood cells. Erythropoietin production may be
lowered when kidney function deteriorates with age, which may lead to a reduction in the formation of red blood cells. Nutritional Factors: Individuals who are older may be more vulnerable to
nutritional deficits, especially when it comes to iron, vitamin B12, and folate—nutrients that are crucial for the synthesis of red
blood cells. Red blood cell formation may also be impacted by inadequate nutritional intake or malabsorption of certain substances.