Cancer is the abnormal, exponential growth of normal cells in the body. Unlike normal cells, which generally have a limit to the number of times they replicate, cancer cells replicate out of control and any cell in your body can become cancerous. Cancer itself and treatment medications and approaches can also affect the normal production of red and white blood cells. Following a healthy, nutrient-dense diet may help improve the effectiveness of your healthy red and white blood cells when you have cancer. In addition, certain supplements may also help. Check with your doctor before using any dietary supplement or making changes to your eating habits.
Dark Green Leafy Vegetables
People living with cancer often experience symptoms caused by low red and white blood cell numbers, according to the Mayo Clinic. These symptoms, which can include fatigue, decreased immunity and impaired blood clotting, may be alleviated by consuming dark green leafy vegetables such as kale and spinach. These vegetables are rich in iron, which can help improve your body's ability to produce healthy red blood cells. In addition, dark green leafy vegetables, according to the American Institute for Cancer Research, have significant amounts of folic acid, a member of the B-complex family of vitamins.
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Your body needs vitamin C in order to absorb iron from foods and supplements. In addition, vitamin C helps to bolster your body against antigens that can cause infections and inflammation. The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute recommends that you emphasize fresh and frozen citrus fruits, because they contain more vitamin C than other types of fruits. If you are taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, however, check with your physician before eating grapefruit, which can cause an unwanted interaction with many different medications.
Folic Acid
Folic acid may help restore red and white blood cells in your body as well as provide protection from some types of cancer. This vitamin, according to the American Cancer Society, also helps your body produce more red blood cells, which can help relieve or prevent anemia that sometimes occurs with cancer and cancer treatment. Folic acid is similar, but not the same as the nutrient folate, which is less easily absorbed by your body.
Fruits and Vegetables
The Mayo Clinic explains that people living with cancer should try to consume generous amounts of fruits and vegetables in order to help your body restore red and white blood cells. If eating isn't easy, because of swallowing problems or discomfort when eating, consider fresh juices instead. These can be purchased at your local health food store or made at home and can provide your body with the nutritional benefits you may be missing. Mixing your juice with a supplemental protein or nutrient powder from your health food store or pharmacy can also add nutrition in a form that may be easier to consume and digest.
