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What Causes A Lower White Cell Count?

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Posted on Sat, 31 Jan 2015
Question: Dear Dr. XXXXXXX
my white cells is lower than normal for long time .
2.5 (4-11) so how can I increase it ?
I don't know if my cancer cimicals course related, it was 3 years ago .
please advice .

regards, XXXXXXX
doctor
Answered by Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha (3 hours later)
Brief Answer:
You may take certain immunity boosting foods

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic.

The white blood cells (WBC)/leucocyte are responsible for the defense against infections. A low WBC count increases the propensity of infections, especially viral infections. The cause of the low WBC count needs to be evaluated.

I have carefully gone through the reports. Other than the low WBC count, the Vitamin D level seems to be low and should be supplemented.

There is not much that can be done to increase the WBC count. But taking immune booster nutrients may help.
1. Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna and sardines, are high in omega-3 fatty acids may have immune booster effects. You can also consider fish-oil supplements. Plant-based fats like olive oil are also known for antiinflammatory properties.
2. Whole grains - Consuming most of your grains as whole grains, as opposed to refined, white bread, cereal, rice, and pasta have high fiber content and may be helpful.
3. Vitamin E is an antioxidant and helps in protecting the body from pro-inflammatory molecules called cytokines. One of the best sources of this vitamin is dark green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, XXXXXXX broccoli, and collard greens. Nuts—particularly almonds, which are rich in fiber, calcium, and vitamin E, and walnuts, which have high amounts of alpha-linolenic acid, a type of omega-3 fat. In fact, all nuts contain good amount of antioxidants.
4. Isoflavones, estrogen-like compounds found in soy products, may have antioxidant properties and may reduce inflammation. Colorful vegetables also have more antioxidants and may reduce inflammation. Red tomatoes for example are rich in lycopene, which has been shown to reduce inflammation. Beets are rich in fiber, vitamin C and plant pigments called betalains and have anti-inflammatory properties. Berries are low in fat and calories and high in antioxidants. Tart cherries have the highest anti-inflammatory content of any food.
5. Yogurt and skim milk are rich source of calcium and vitamin D and also have beneficial role on the immunity.
6. Turmeric, the ingredient that gives curry its yellow color, works by turning off NF-kappa B, a protein that regulates the immune system and triggers the process of inflammation. Pungent vegetables like ginger, garlic and onions are also known for their immunity-boosting properties.

Hope that helps.

Regards
Dr. Kunal Saha
Note: For further queries related to kidney problems Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1954

Answered : 4467 Questions

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What Causes A Lower White Cell Count?

Brief Answer: You may take certain immunity boosting foods Detailed Answer: Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic. The white blood cells (WBC)/leucocyte are responsible for the defense against infections. A low WBC count increases the propensity of infections, especially viral infections. The cause of the low WBC count needs to be evaluated. I have carefully gone through the reports. Other than the low WBC count, the Vitamin D level seems to be low and should be supplemented. There is not much that can be done to increase the WBC count. But taking immune booster nutrients may help. 1. Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna and sardines, are high in omega-3 fatty acids may have immune booster effects. You can also consider fish-oil supplements. Plant-based fats like olive oil are also known for antiinflammatory properties. 2. Whole grains - Consuming most of your grains as whole grains, as opposed to refined, white bread, cereal, rice, and pasta have high fiber content and may be helpful. 3. Vitamin E is an antioxidant and helps in protecting the body from pro-inflammatory molecules called cytokines. One of the best sources of this vitamin is dark green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, XXXXXXX broccoli, and collard greens. Nuts—particularly almonds, which are rich in fiber, calcium, and vitamin E, and walnuts, which have high amounts of alpha-linolenic acid, a type of omega-3 fat. In fact, all nuts contain good amount of antioxidants. 4. Isoflavones, estrogen-like compounds found in soy products, may have antioxidant properties and may reduce inflammation. Colorful vegetables also have more antioxidants and may reduce inflammation. Red tomatoes for example are rich in lycopene, which has been shown to reduce inflammation. Beets are rich in fiber, vitamin C and plant pigments called betalains and have anti-inflammatory properties. Berries are low in fat and calories and high in antioxidants. Tart cherries have the highest anti-inflammatory content of any food. 5. Yogurt and skim milk are rich source of calcium and vitamin D and also have beneficial role on the immunity. 6. Turmeric, the ingredient that gives curry its yellow color, works by turning off NF-kappa B, a protein that regulates the immune system and triggers the process of inflammation. Pungent vegetables like ginger, garlic and onions are also known for their immunity-boosting properties. Hope that helps. Regards Dr. Kunal Saha