White blood cells, or leukocytes, are the disease-fighting cells of the body. A leukocyte count of less than 3,500 cells per microliter of blood, according to MayoClinic.com, is generally considered as a threshold for leukopenia or low white blood cell count. Viral infections, certain types of cancers and medications can cause leukopenia. Leukopenia can lead to impaired immune function and the treatment depends upon the underlying cause. Certain foods can help increase white blood cell levels in the body.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are rich sources of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that play a crucial role in the proper functioning of a variety of immune cells including the white blood cells. Consumption of vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, green peppers and cantaloupes can be beneficial because, according to Linus Pauling Institute, vitamin C can stimulate the production of white blood cells, especially neutrophils, lymphocytes and phagocytes.
Linus Pauling Institute also states that vitamin A can help in the differentiation and development of white blood cells. Vitamin A can be found in foods such as carrots and green leafy vegetables.
Garlic
Some animal studies, such as the one published in a 2002 edition of "African Journal of Biomedical Research," state that feeding rats with garlic for 30 days may help increase their white blood cell counts. Garlic is generally safe to eat, although side effects such as upset stomach, bad breath and skin rash may occur. Consult a doctor before consuming excessive amounts of garlic.
Meats
The National Institutes of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements states that zinc is an essential mineral for the development and activation of white blood cells and even mild to moderate zinc deficiency can lead to a low white blood cell count. Meats such as beef, pork, oysters, crab and chicken are good sources of zinc.
Dairy Products
Dairy products such as milk, cheese and yogurt are rich sources of zinc and vitamin A, both of which are required for white blood cell formation. Non-fat and low-fat dairy products may be beneficial for most individuals. Strict vegetarians and vegans may obtain vitamin A from fruits and vegetables and zinc from legumes and beans.
References
- Linus Pauling Institute: Vitamin C
- Linus Pauling Institute: Vitamin A
- "African Journal of Biomedical Research"; Effect Of Chronic Garlic Feeding On Some Hematological Parameters; Iranloye B. O; 2002
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Zinc
