The Short Answer:
The most common natural methods for increasing white blood cell count include limiting your sugar intake and drinking plenty of water. It is also smart to cut unhealthy fats from your diet.
One of the best ways to support your immune system is by keeping your white blood cell count healthy. Some simple lifestyle changes can help, like reducing sugar, staying hydrated, and avoiding unhealthy fats.
Why White Blood Cells Matter
The human body is incredible—it knows how to heal and react to threats. When danger arises, our body kicks into a fight-or-flight response to protect us. A key part of this defence system is white blood cells. These tiny warriors play a significant role in keeping us healthy by fighting off infections and harmful invaders.
According to the University of Rochester Medical Center, white blood cells make up only a tiny portion of our blood, but their impact is enormous. They move through the bloodstream, hunting down bacteria, viruses, and anything else that doesn’t belong in the body. Essentially, white blood cells detect and destroy threats.
How the Body Produces White Blood Cells
White blood cells are made in the bone marrow, but they don’t live very long, so the body constantly produces new ones. However, sometimes, things go wrong, and the body doesn’t make enough white blood cells, leading to a weakened immune system.
If you have a low white blood cell count, it’s important to understand the possible causes and find ways to support your immune system naturally.
Causes of Low White Blood Cell Count
When your white blood cell count is low, your body becomes more vulnerable to infections and illnesses. According to the Mayo Clinic, several factors can contribute to this issue, including:
- Autoimmune disorders – Conditions like Type 1 Diabetes, Multiple Sclerosis, and Celiac Disease can cause the immune system to attack healthy cells, affecting white blood cell production.
- Viral infections – Some viruses weaken the bone marrow, reducing its ability to produce white blood cells.
- Cancer – Certain types of cancer can lower white blood cell counts, making it harder for the body to fight infections.
- Infectious diseases – Some infections directly impact white blood cell production.
- Vitamin deficiencies – A lack of essential nutrients like Vitamin B12, folic acid, or iron can interfere with healthy cell production.
A low white blood cell count weakens your immune system, making you more prone to sickness. Once your immunity is compromised, it can become a cycle—getting sick further weakens your body, making future infections even more likely.
How to Naturally Increase White Blood Cells
Boosting your white blood cell count is possible with some simple lifestyle changes. According to Med-Health, improving your immune function often leads to better habits. Here are some easy ways to support your body’s white blood cell production:
- Reduce sugar intake
- Drink plenty of water
- Cut out unhealthy fats
- Eat nutrient-rich foods
Best Foods for Increasing White Blood Cells
A healthy diet plays a big role in maintaining a strong immune system. Certain foods are known to support white blood cell production and overall immunity. These include:
- Carotenoid-rich foods (like Spirulina)
- Flaxseed oil
- Poultry
- Beans
- Seafood
- Dried fruit (sugar-free)
- Iron-fortified meals
- Dark leafy greens
- Squash
- Sweet red peppers
- Mango
These foods are packed with essential minerals like iron, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Omega-3 fatty acids, which are key to supporting your immune system.
Supplements That May Help
In addition to a healthy diet, certain supplements can support bone marrow function and help with white blood cell production:
- Folic acid
- Vitamin B12
- Vitamin B6
- Copper
- Vitamin E
White Blood Cell Support for Cancer Patients
Cancer can weaken the body’s ability to produce white blood cells, making it harder to fight infections. Chemotherapy also reduces white blood cell levels, leaving patients more vulnerable.
According to Choosing Wisely, many cancer patients benefit from colony-stimulating factors (CSFs)—medications that help boost white blood cell production. Common options include:
- Epogen (Filgrastim)
- Neulasta (Pegfilgrastim)
- Leukine
- Proline (Sargramostim)
These treatments are often given after chemotherapy to help restore white blood cell levels.
Final Thoughts
A low white blood cell count can weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight infections. However, by following the tips above—eating the right foods, taking helpful supplements, and making smart lifestyle choices—you can support your immune system and stay healthier overall.
