Foods That Increase White Blood Cells

The body relies on its immune system to fight invaders called antigens, which include bacteria, viruses and allergens. White blood cells attack these harmful organisms, allowing the body to maintain its health. Proper nutrition is key when it comes to maintaining your immune system 1. Essential vitamins and minerals increase the production and strength of white blood cells, thereby giving your immune system the power it needs to fight infection 1. Fortify your diet with foods that contain these vitamins and minerals to boost your body’s defense against unwelcome invaders.

Fruits and Vegetables

Carotenoids are also necessary for optimal functioning of the immune system. Beta carotene, one of the most well-known carotenoids, boosts the production of infection-fighting cells and T-cells. Fruits and vegetables high in beta carotene include:

• carrots
  
• squash
  
• pumpkin
  
• sweet potatoes
  
• mangoes
  
• apricots

Other carotenoids include lutein (found in dark green vegetables) and lycopene, which is found in tomatoes, pink grapefruit and guava.

Nuts and Seeds

Can Certain Vegetables Increase Your White Blood Cells?

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Vitamin E aids in the production of B-cells, white blood cells which hunt for and destroy germs and cancer cells. Nuts, seeds and vegetable oils contain large quantities of vitamin E; leafy greens are also a good source. Eat foods like almonds, sunflower seeds, peanut butter, spinach and broccoli to get more vitamin E.

Lean Protein

Protein contains amino acids, which are the building blocks of white blood cells. Without adequate amounts of protein, the body cannot produce enough white blood cells to fight off antigens. High quantities of protein are found in lean meats, such as seafood, fish, and skinless poultry. Eggs, beans, lentils and soy are also good sources of protein.

Fish and Flax Oil

Can Foods Raise White T Cells?

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Fatty fish, including tuna and salmon, and flax oil are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3’s are a beneficial kind of fat that boost the immune system by increase the germ-eating activity of white blood cells. Flax oil can be added to fruit smoothies.

Dark Meat and Shellfish

Dark meat and shellfish are high in zinc. Zinc helps the body produce more white blood cells and makes existing white blood cells more aggressive. Foods like dark turkey meat, beef, oysters and crab contain high amounts of zinc. You can also get zinc from beans and fortified cereals.

Garlic

Ward off invaders and add some kick to your diet with garlic. A member of the onion family, garlic stimulates the production of white blood cells and antibodies.