Blood work: RBC and hemoglobin levels explained

Went for a pre-employment physical this morning and my hemoglobin came back at 177 and my RBC was 5.96
I actually ate right before the test, and someone mentioned that might mess with the results... is that actually a thing?
I feel totally fine, though. I work out pretty regularly—lots of pushups, sit-ups, neck exercises, dumbbells, stuff like that.
I stay active, play basketball too, but I don't take any supplements or anything, and I don't really hit the heavy weights at a gym.
Does anyone know much about this? Maybe you could explain if it's related to working out, what I eat, or something else? I'm thinking about going back for more detailed testing, but if anyone knows anything or has tips on how to get these numbers back to normal before I go, let me know.
Thanks

My numbers are a bit elevated too, but it’s really not a big deal. You see this all the time with pro athletes.

Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water today, seriously...

nimblebison16 said:Went for a pre-employment physical this morning and my hemoglobin came back at 177 and my RBC was 5.96
I actually ate right before the test, and someone mentioned that might mess with the results... is that actually a thing?
I feel totally fine, though. I work out pretty regularly—lots of pushups, sit-ups, neck exercises, dumbbells, stuff like that.
I stay active, play basketball too, but I don't take any supplements or anything, and I don't really hit the heavy weights at a gym.
Does anyone know much about this? Maybe you could explain if it's related to working out, what I eat, or something else? I'm thinking about going back for more detailed testing, but if anyone knows anything or has tips on how to get these numbers back to normal before I go, let me know.
Thanks

Eating right before a blood draw won't change your hemoglobin. Just go back and get it checked again.

Ugh, I just can't seem to drink any more fluids. I'm drinking a ton, honestly... but I don't think that's what's causing this. They told me it might just be athlete's heart, so, I mean, I'm really hoping that's actually the case 🙂

It’s possible; if you've been spending time at higher altitudes, that could be the cause. It wouldn't hurt to have your blood work checked again in a few months. Most likely, it isn't an illness, but simply a compensatory mechanism...