How to Increase White Blood Cells: Effective Natural Strategies

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White blood cells or WBCs are those cells which have no pigment or colour in them (like red blood cells) that are produced in the bone marrow. These then circulate all over the body after undergoing stringent maturation processes which teach them to attack only foreign particles or agents. When this ‘training’ does not happen well, you have autoimmune disease. While the number of WBCs is tightly controlled in the body, large numbers may be lost due to a severe infection or some chronic medical condition. When the numbers are lower than the ideal range, you may deal with opportunistic infections more often due to low immunity. Let us learn how we can help increase their numbers, without too much effort.

Best Foods To Boost White Blood Cell Count Naturally

Foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals are the best for helping WBCs retain their levels and activity in the long run. You should try to eat foods rich in Vitamin C, B group of vitamins, iron, beta-carotene, E, zinc and any antimicrobial property containing foods like garlic and other spices, in one form or the other- daily. We would also like to emphasise the importance of probiotic-rich foods and their effect on white blood cells in the gut. They help promote the growth of good bacteria or a healthier gut microbiome- which means the food you eat is then broken down and absorbed in the right manner. Spices and condiments are anti-inflammatory in nature as they have lots of antioxidants, which help keep WBCs healthy.

How Regular Exercise Influences White Blood Cell Levels

Exercise has many benefits for your body as a whole and your immune system is no exception. When you work out intensely and regularly, you are actively helping to increase the sheer numbers of white blood cells. This means there is a better chance that they identify disease causing pathogens sooner and get rid of them. Movement and exercise help your bone marrow understand that more cells need to be made, to replenish reserves.

The Impact Of Sleep On White Blood Cell Production

The normal range for white blood cells is anywhere between 4000-11000 cells per microlitre of blood. When you sleep well, the numbers are regulated but when you constantly suffer from poor sleep quality, the numbers seem to be way higher- leading to greater inflammation in the body. There are many types of white blood cells and neutrophil numbers are highest when you don’t sleep well.

Role of Hydration In Maintaining Optimal White Blood Cell Count

Water is literally the elixir for life and it is super crucial for the immune system to flow. Plenty of water means white blood cells can flow along with blood and scout different parts of the body for any suspicious activity. Water can also help cells derive nutrition in the proper manner. The amount of water you drink also depends on multiple factors like the humidity levels, the heat, climate and how active you are on a daily basis.

Conclusion

White blood cells help keep us healthy throughout our lives and it only makes sense for us to ensure that we take good care of them too. There are different kind of white blood cells- neutrophils, basophils, eosinophils, monocytes and lymphocytes. They all have specific functions to perform in the body and when you eat, sleep and take good care of yourself, you are giving them a fair chance at fighting battles against infectious pathogens and allergens.