Supplements That Can Help Increase WBC

November 16, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the National Cancer Institute, a low white blood cell count (leukopenia) can increase a person's risk of infection. A number of supplements, including specific vitamins, minerals, and herbs, are known to support the immune system and can help increase WBC levels.

Quick Summary

This article explores various supplements, such as vitamins C, D, and B12, along with zinc and omega-3 fatty acids, that can help raise white blood cell counts. It also covers herbal options like echinacea and astragalus, discusses how these nutrients aid immune function, and emphasizes the importance of consulting a healthcare professional before beginning any new regimen.

Key Points

Vitamin C and D are primary WBC boosters: Vitamin C increases the production of infection-fighting white blood cells, while Vitamin D helps regulate overall immune function.
B vitamins and minerals are building blocks: Folate (B9) and Vitamin B12 are essential for WBC formation in the bone marrow, while minerals like zinc and selenium support immune cell development and activity.
Herbal options exist with varying evidence: Echinacea and Astragalus root have shown some promise in studies for stimulating immune cells and boosting WBC count.
Omega-3s support a healthy immune response: Found in fish oil and other sources, omega-3 fatty acids can help regulate inflammation and support optimal WBC function.
Always consult a doctor before supplementing: Medical supervision is critical to ensure proper dosage, avoid interactions with other medications, and address any underlying medical conditions.
Lifestyle changes are equally important: Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management are vital factors that support a healthy white blood cell count.

Essential Vitamins to Support WBC Production

White blood cells (WBCs), also known as leukocytes, are crucial components of the immune system that fight off infections and disease. While a healthy, balanced diet is the best way to get these nutrients, supplements can be beneficial, especially if a deficiency is present.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is one of the most well-known immune boosters, as it is thought to increase the production of WBCs, particularly lymphocytes and phagocytes, which are key to fighting infections. It also acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting immune cells from damage. Since the body does not store vitamin C, a daily intake is necessary.

Vitamin D

Often called the “sunshine vitamin,” Vitamin D plays a crucial role in immune system regulation. It is known to boost the activity of immune cells and can enhance the body's natural defense against disease. Many people have low levels of Vitamin D, particularly in winter months, making supplementation a common and effective strategy.

B Vitamins (Folate and B12)

Folate (B9) and Vitamin B12 are both vital for the production of red and white blood cells in the bone marrow. A deficiency in either can lead to a lower-than-normal WBC count. Supplements containing these B vitamins can help ensure the body has the building blocks needed for healthy immune cell formation.

Key Minerals that Affect WBC Count

In addition to vitamins, certain minerals are also essential for maintaining a healthy WBC count. These micronutrients support various functions of the immune system.

Zinc

Zinc is a trace element that is critical for the proper function and development of immune cells, including T-lymphocytes. A zinc deficiency can significantly weaken the immune response and reduce WBC levels. Zinc supplementation can be a simple way to support immune health.

Selenium

Selenium has a positive effect on the production of white blood cells and is known for its antioxidant properties. It helps protect the body from oxidative stress and plays a role in regulating the immune response. Some studies suggest selenium can help combat viral infections.

Herbal and Other Supplements

Beyond basic vitamins and minerals, several other supplements have shown promise in supporting or increasing WBC counts, though scientific evidence varies.

Echinacea: This popular herbal remedy is often used to support immune function. Studies have shown it can enhance natural killer (NK) cell activity and may increase neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, within the first 24 hours of use.
Astragalus Root: Used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, astragalus is believed to strengthen the immune system. Research indicates it can increase levels of B- and T-lymphocytes, as well as boost antibody production.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oil and flaxseeds, these healthy fats are known to support a healthy inflammatory response and contribute to optimal WBC function.
Probiotics: These beneficial bacteria, found in supplements or fermented foods like yogurt and kefir, help maintain a healthy gut microbiome, which is closely linked to a robust immune system.

Comparison of Key WBC-Supporting Supplements


Supplement	Primary Function	Key Evidence	Best For	Considerations
Vitamin C	Enhances WBC production, antioxidant	Extensive research, well-established	General immune support	Body does not store it; requires daily intake
Vitamin B12 & Folate	Essential for WBC formation	Clinically proven for blood cell production	Addressing nutritional deficiencies	Requires blood test to confirm deficiency
Zinc	Supports immune cell function and development	Strong evidence, critical for T-lymphocytes	Direct immune support	Excessive intake can be harmful
Echinacea	Stimulates natural killer cells and neutrophils	Some clinical studies show benefit	Natural, herbal immune support	Consult a doctor, especially if on other medications
Omega-3s	Reduces inflammation, supports WBC activity	Research ongoing, some promising findings	Supporting overall immune health	Potential interference with other medications
Selenium	Enhances WBC production, antioxidant	Linked to combating viral infections	Targeted viral protection	Requires proper dosage; toxicity can occur

Taking Supplements Safely

Before adding any new supplement to your routine, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have an underlying medical condition, are pregnant, or are undergoing cancer treatments like chemotherapy. Supplements can interact with medications and may not be suitable for everyone. A doctor or registered dietitian can help determine if a low WBC count is caused by a nutritional deficiency and recommend the safest and most effective course of action.

Conclusion

While a balanced diet is always the foundation for strong immune health, supplements can play a targeted role in increasing WBC counts, particularly when nutritional deficiencies are a factor. Vitamins C, D, and the B-group, alongside minerals like zinc and selenium, are well-documented for their roles in immune cell production and function. Herbal remedies such as echinacea and astragalus also offer promising benefits. By understanding which supplements increase WBC and consulting with a medical professional, individuals can make informed choices to support their immune system effectively. A holistic approach that includes proper nutrition, sufficient sleep, and stress management will provide the strongest defense for overall health.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult with a healthcare provider before taking any supplements, especially if you have a medical condition or are undergoing treatment.

The Role of Myeloid Growth Factors

For some medical conditions, particularly those involving chemotherapy, a doctor may prescribe myeloid growth factors to directly stimulate the bone marrow to produce white blood cells. These are specific medications like filgrastim (Neupogen) and pegfilgrastim (Neulasta) and are prescribed only under medical supervision. They are not over-the-counter supplements and are used for severe cases of leukopenia.

Visit Medical News Today for more information on how to raise white blood cell count.

Lifestyle Factors that Support WBC Count

Optimizing your lifestyle is just as important as supplementation. Regular exercise improves circulation, helping WBCs move more efficiently throughout the body. Adequate sleep is critical, as the body produces and distributes key immune cells during rest. Chronic stress can suppress the immune system, so managing stress through techniques like yoga or meditation is also beneficial. Limiting alcohol and avoiding tobacco are also crucial steps for supporting WBC production.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, whether a low WBC count can be cured with supplements depends on the underlying cause. If the cause is a simple nutritional deficiency, supplements may help. However, low WBC can be caused by more serious conditions like autoimmune diseases or cancer treatments, which require medical intervention.

Dosage recommendations vary depending on the supplement and individual needs. It is best to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to determine the correct dosage for you, as excessive amounts of some supplements, like zinc, can be harmful.

For most healthy individuals, a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains provides sufficient nutrients to support WBC production. Supplements are typically recommended when a dietary intake is insufficient or a deficiency is identified.

The timeframe for increasing WBC count with supplements can vary. For nutritional deficiencies, improvement can occur over several weeks or months of consistent intake. For conditions caused by illness or medication, the timeline can be influenced by other factors.

Yes, risks can exist, especially if supplements are taken without medical advice. High doses of certain vitamins or minerals can be toxic, and herbal supplements can interact with other medications. It is always important to discuss supplement use with a healthcare provider.

To get these nutrients, include citrus fruits (Vitamin C), red bell peppers (Vitamin C), spinach (Vitamins A, E), shellfish and red meat (Zinc), and oily fish (Omega-3s) in your diet.

Yes, probiotics can help increase WBC count indirectly by improving gut health. A healthy gut microbiome is strongly linked to a more robust immune system and can positively influence WBC activity.