White blood cells are the defenders and protectors of the human body. When there is an infection or a sickness, white blood cells go to work healing the body and fighting viruses and bacteria. Though white blood cells are so crucial for the body, some people struggle with low white blood cell levels. Low white blood cells sometimes occur from a chronic infection, a major disease like cancer or a treatment like chemotherapy. Regardless of how white blood cell levels became low, eating particular foods can help to increase white blood cells up to a healthy level.
Oysters
Oysters are more of a delicacy than an everyday meal in the United States, yet people who have low white blood cell counts may want to eat them more often. Dr. Bill Sears, pediatrician and nutrition expert, explains that oysters are rich in zinc, a mineral that increases white blood cell production in the body. In fact, the recommendation for zinc 15 to 25 mg a day, but six medium-sized oysters contain over 70 mg of zinc, according to Dr. Bill's website.
Salmon
According to World's Healthiest Foods, a nutrition-focused website, salmon is high in protein, which enhances the body's ability to fight off infections. The omega-3 fatty acids in salmon also boost the immune system by multiplying the number of white blood cells in the body. Dr. Bill Sears even states that when a person eats a food with omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, their white blood cells are able to fight off bacteria faster.
Romaine Lettuce
Romaine lettuce is rich in vitamin C, which helps to enhance immune system function and create more white blood cells, according to Dr. Bill Sears. In addition to vitamin C, romaine lettuce also has B vitamins like vitamin B1 and B2. Dr. Sears states on his website that B vitamins play a vital role in maintaining the normal functions of the body, like the metabolism and immune function. Eating a large salad with foods like salmon and veggies on top can really speed up white blood cell growth.
Eggs
Eating scrambled eggs for breakfast or hard-boiled eggs as a snack can help raise white blood cell counts. Dr. Bill Sears states that eggs are one of the top immune system-boosting foods because they contain the mineral selenium. Selenium multiplies white blood cells in the body. At the same time, eggs are rich in protein and vitamin E, which both play a part in maintaining healthy immune system function.
