White blood cells are important in our bodies because they enhance the immune system function and help to fight off infections. When someone has a low white blood cell count, it may indicate a disease. Another common reason for low white blood cells is going through a major treatment such as radiation or chemotherapy. Increasing white blood cell count can decrease a person's chances of getting sick and also affect their energy levels. Eating certain healthy foods can help to increase white blood cells.
Salmon
Salmon is one of the best foods to increase white blood cell levels. Dr. Bill Sears, pediatrician and professor of pediatrics at the University of California at Irvine explains on his website that the omega 3 fatty acids found in salmon increase white blood cell counts and enhance their strength, so that they can get rid of bacteria. This means that eating foods like salmon often can boost the immune system and fight off infection. It is important that the salmon be cooked fully, as the Cancer Supportive Care Programs states that raw or uncooked fish can cause foodborne illness.
Oranges
Foods that are rich in vitamin C, such as oranges, can help to boost white blood cell levels when eaten regularly. Dr. Bill Sears states that vitamin C increases the amount of white blood cells and antibodies in the body, while preventing viruses from getting into the body. While some people take vitamin C supplements to increase their immune system function, eating oranges provides the same benefit of the vitamin C, plus additional vitamins and minerals and dietary fiber.
Fortified Cereals
Having a simple bowl of fortified cereal is another way to increase white blood cells in the body. Most cereals are fortified with a wide variety of vitamins and minerals including the mineral zinc. Zinc increases white blood cell counts, according to Dr. Bill Sears. His website states that an ounce of fortified cereal can have up to 15 mg of zinc. It is important to check the nutrition facts panel on cereals before buying to make sure the cereal is fortified.
Cooked Turkey
Cooked turkey meat is another zinc-rich food that can help to increase white blood cell levels, according to Dr. Bill Sears. He recommends getting 15 to 25 mg of zinc per day, while a three-ounce serving of dark meat turkey has about 3.8 mg of zinc. The protein in turkey can also increase energy levels while working to enhance the immune system. It is very important that the turkey is cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 140 degrees F or higher. According to Cancer Supportive Care Programs, when white blood cell counts are low, the body cannot fight off infections or sicknesses from microorganisms in food as well as it should.
