White blood cells (WBC) also known as leukocytes, play a major role in your body’s immune function. They help by looking for invading viruses, and bacteria in your blood. WBCs recognize and destroy the invading elements before they develop into any disease. Some WBCs even have a role in allergic reactions.
How to know your WBC count?
It can be known through a simple blood test during your full body health checkup.
Normal WBC count (per microliter of blood):
- Neutrophils: 3150 - 6200
- Lymphocytes: 1500 - 3000
- Monocytes: 300 - 500
- Eosinophils: 50 - 250
- Basophils: 15 - 50
What does it mean when your health checkup report shows a high level of WBC count?
Increased WBC numbers are not beneficial. A high WBC count can indicate an underlying health problem, like an infection, stress, allergy, inflammation, trauma, etc. High WBC count requires further investigation for checking the actual cause. Your health checkup report shows the levels of different types of WBCs in your body by which your physician can know the cause of the elevation.
Types of white blood cells:
- Neutrophils
- Lymphocytes
- Monocytes
- Eosinophils
- Basophils
Neutrophils make 70% of the total WBCs. They usually indicate a response to bacterial infections and stress. Lymphocyte count may indicate viral or bacterial infection, and increased monocytes indicate chronic inflammation.
Diseases that high WBC count can lead to:
- Viral or bacterial infection
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
- Leukemia
- Immune disorders
- Emotional or physical stress
How to prevent these health conditions from developing?
Your food intake and physical activity affect your overall white blood cell count. Be physically active and include the following nutrition in your diet:
- Vitamin C - eat fruits like lemons, oranges, berries, and pineapples, and vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers
- Antioxidants - Eat leeks, garlic, onions, green tea
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids - available in fish, flaxseed, and walnuts
Along with these, avoid foods that are rich in sugar, salt, and fat. Also, cut down on addictive habits like smoking and drinking. A simple modification in your lifestyle can help you live a healthy and happy life. Know how health checkups can help you personalize your complete lifestyle and live a better life.
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