White blood cells are immune cells and are included in our blood. White blood cells are also called leukocytes. Although the amount of (WBC) in the blood is very low (1%), yet they play a major role in our body. We can say white blood cells are warriors against any bacterial or viral infection. They are the first line of defense in our bodies.
White blood cells are made of protein in the bone marrow. The ratio of WBC against RBC is 1:600. The life span of WBC is short so our body has to produce them constantly.
Types of WBC
Following are the types of WBC:
- Neutrophils
- Eosinophil’s
- Basophils
- Lymphocytes
- Monocytes
When is white blood cells count low?
The low count of WBC is called leukopenia. It gives the signal that your immune cells are destroyed by several infections of bacteria or viruses.
How to check WBC
To check the count of WBC, a CBC (complete blood cell) test is done. The normal range of WBC is from 4000 to 10000 cells.
How to increase white blood cells
The major function of WBC is to save the body from disease and infections. You can increase your WBC with a healthy diet. When your white blood cells will increase, your immune system will also become strong to fight against any infection or disease.
- Protein
As we know that protein is the basic nutrient for every cell and white blood cells are also made of protein, we should take protein in our regular diet like eggs, milk, meat, etc.
- Vitamins
Vitamin A, C, and E are important to increase WBC. For this, you should take spinach, cheese, carrots, eggs, meat, citrus fruits, sweet potatoes, and eggs. You can also intake vitamin supplements.
- Yogurt
Yogurt triggers the immunity system. It has stimulating properties that increase white blood cells. Include probiotic yogurt in your diet.
- Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 is also good to increase WBC and boost the immune system. In this regard, you can have fish, avocados, and walnuts.
- Zinc
Zink plays an important role in restoring white blood cells and boosting immunity.
- Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits contain vitamin C. They are antioxidants that enhance the immune system and increase white blood cell count. You can consume oranges, strawberries, lemons, kiwis, and grapefruits.
- Garlic
Garlic has both antiviral as well as antibacterial properties. It boosts our immunity system and prepares our body to fight against any type of infection. Must include garlic in your regular diet.
Other tips
Along with a healthy diet, you must take some other measures if your WBC count is low. First of all you must take good care of hygiene like:
Wash hand several times a day especially before preparing food
Use an antibacterial soap with warm water.
Scrub hands for at least 15-30 seconds.
Before using any fruit or vegetable, wash it thoroughly.
So, by taking safety measures regarding hygiene and taking a healthy diet, you can increase white blood cells.
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