What to eat to increase neutrophils? 5 safe and effective foods

Neutrophils are an important "shield" of the immune system, helping the body fight against bacteria, fungi, and many infectious agents. When neutrophil count is low, the risk of contracting infectious diseases can significantly increase, especially in people undergoing cancer chemotherapy, suffering from blood disorders, or immune deficiencies. According to many clinical statistics, tens of percent of patients undergoing chemotherapy may experience neutropenia, which can disrupt treatment and increase the risk of complications.

If test results show low neutrophil count, many people often wonder whether this level can be improved through diet or if medication is needed. In reality, the causes of low neutrophils are diverse, and each case will require a different approach to ensure safety and effectiveness.

In this article, Tiptory will help you understand the causes of decreased neutrophil count, how to increase neutrophils through nutrition and healthcare, and medical treatment methods when necessary. At the same time, you will also learn how to prevent infections and protect the immune system while your neutrophil count is still low.

Part 1: What to eat to increase neutrophil count?

Tip 1: Supplement vitamin C to support neutrophils

Boost vitamin C-rich foods

Vitamin C plays an important role in helping the immune system function effectively and contributing to maintaining a healthy neutrophil count. If the body is deficient in vitamin C, adequate supplementation can help improve immune function and support neutrophil production.

• Prioritize eating fresh fruits rich in vitamin C such as:
  • Oranges
  • Mandarins
  • Grapefruit
  • Guava
  • Kiwi
  • Strawberries
• Add vitamin C-rich green vegetables to your daily meals, such as:
  • Broccoli
  • Bell peppers
  • Kale
  • Spinach
  • Carrots
• Combine fruits and vegetables in main meals or snacks to increase the natural vitamin C absorbed by the body.

Notes when increasing neutrophil count through diet

• Vitamin C only supports immune health and is not a direct treatment for neutropenia.
• If neutrophil count is low due to chemotherapy, bone marrow disease, or blood disorders, treatment should follow a doctor's guidance instead of relying solely on diet.
• Maintaining a diverse and balanced diet will help the body get enough nutrients to produce immune cells and support long-term recovery.

Tip 2: Supplement vitamin E and zinc

Boost vitamin E-rich foods

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect immune cells from damage and supports neutrophil production. Adequate vitamin E supplementation through food can contribute to maintaining a healthy immune system.

• Prioritize supplementing with vitamin E-rich foods such as:
  • Almonds
  • Avocados
  • Wheat germ
  • Sunflower seeds
  • Olive oil
  • Palm oil
• These foods should be incorporated into daily meals to increase vitamin E absorption, especially when consumed with dishes containing healthy fats.

Supplement zinc-rich foods

Zinc is a mineral essential for the development and function of immune cells, including neutrophils. Zinc deficiency can impair the body's ability to fight bacteria and increase the risk of infection.

• Zinc-rich foods that should be supplemented include:
  • Oysters
  • Poultry
  • Legumes
  • Nuts
  • Whole grains
• Maintaining a daily zinc intake from food helps support immune function and contributes to overall health improvement.

Notes when supplementing vitamin E and zinc

• It is advisable to prioritize supplementing vitamin E and zinc from natural foods rather than arbitrarily using high-dose functional foods.
• If you have neutropenia or are at risk of low neutrophil count, consult a doctor or nutritionist to determine appropriate supplementation needs.
• Combining a balanced diet, adequate rest, and treating the underlying cause of neutropenia will yield better results than merely supplementing with a single group of nutrients.

Tip 3: Supplement omega-3

Prioritize omega-3-rich foods

Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial nutrients for the immune system, helping to support the activity of neutrophils and phagocytic cells – cells responsible for identifying and destroying bacteria and pathogens. Adequate omega-3 supplementation also helps reduce inflammation and enhance the body's protective capabilities.

• Increase omega-3-rich foods such as:
  • Salmon
  • Mackerel
  • Flaxseed oil
  • Flaxseeds
  • Chia seeds
  • Walnuts
• It is recommended to eat fatty fish 2-3 times per week to provide natural omega-3 for the body.
• Flaxseed oil can be used in salads or added to cold dishes. If consumed directly, only use according to recommended amounts and consult a doctor if you have an existing medical condition or are taking anticoagulant medication.

Notes when supplementing omega-3

• Omega-3 helps support immune function and maintain neutrophil activity but cannot replace treatment methods when neutrophil count is low due to illness or side effects of chemotherapy.
• Prioritize supplementing omega-3 from natural foods rather than overusing supplements.
• To effectively increase neutrophil count, combine a balanced diet with a healthy lifestyle and adhere to the doctor's treatment regimen if there is an underlying condition.

Tip 4: Supplement vitamin B12

Eat more vitamin B12-rich foods

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient for blood cell formation and maintaining normal bone marrow activity. When the body is deficient in vitamin B12, the risk of neutropenia can increase, weakening the immune system's ability to fight infections.

• Prioritize supplementing with vitamin B12-rich foods such as:
  • Fish
  • Eggs
  • Milk and dairy products
  • Animal liver
  • Beef
  • Dark leafy greens (which provide many nutrients that support blood formation, although not a significant source of vitamin B12)
• Maintain a diverse diet to provide adequate vitamin B12 and other essential nutrients for neutrophil production.

Suitable choices for vegetarians

Vegetarians or those who limit animal-derived foods are at higher risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.

• Consider foods fortified with vitamin B12 such as:
  • Soy milk fortified with vitamin B12
  • Breakfast cereals fortified with vitamin B12
  • Nutritional yeast fortified with vitamin B12
• Check the label for ingredients to ensure the food is fortified with vitamin B12.

Consider using dietary supplements

In some cases, diet may not meet vitamin B12 needs, or the body may absorb it poorly.

• Vitamin B12 supplements can be used under the guidance of a doctor or nutritionist.
• Do not self-administer high doses for prolonged periods without identifying the cause of vitamin B12 deficiency.
• If low neutrophil count persists or is accompanied by anemia, fatigue, or numbness/tingling in the hands and feet, seek medical attention to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

Note

Vitamin B12 only supports blood cell formation when the body is deficient in this nutrient. If neutropenia is due to chemotherapy, bone marrow disease, or hematological disorders, treatment should follow a doctor's instructions and should not rely solely on diet.

Tip 5: Avoid eating raw foods

Do not eat raw meat, fish, and eggs

When neutrophil count is low, the body's ability to fight bacteria, viruses, and pathogens is impaired. Therefore, raw or undercooked foods can increase the risk of infection, affecting health and the recovery process.

• Avoid using foods such as:
  • Rare beef or undercooked meat
  • Raw fish, sushi, sashimi
  • Raw seafood
  • Raw eggs or soft-boiled eggs
  • Dishes containing raw eggs such as some homemade sauces or ice cream

Proper food preparation

Cooking thoroughly helps destroy most bacteria and parasites that can exist in food, thereby reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

• Always cook meat, fish, seafood, and eggs thoroughly before eating.
• Check that food is cooked completely, with no raw or undercooked parts inside.
• Use separate cooking utensils for raw and cooked foods to prevent cross-contamination.

Notes when neutrophil count is low

• If you are experiencing neutropenia due to chemotherapy, blood disorders, or immune deficiency, prioritize thoroughly cooked foods and ensure food safety and hygiene.
• Wash hands thoroughly before preparing and eating food to limit exposure to bacteria.
• If symptoms such as fever, chills, sore throat, or diarrhea appear during a period of low neutrophil count, seek medical attention promptly as these could be signs of an infection requiring timely treatment.

Tip 6: Consider using dietary supplements as directed by your doctor

Only use when absolutely necessary

If your diet does not provide enough nutrients or you have poor eating habits for a long period, your doctor may recommend supplementing with vitamins, minerals, or specialized nutritional products to help your body produce neutrophils and maintain a healthy immune system.

• May be prescribed:
  • Multivitamins
  • Supplements containing vitamins and minerals
  • Oral medical nutrition products for malnourished individuals or those undergoing treatment
• These products are only supportive when the body has a nutritional deficiency and cannot replace treating the underlying cause of neutropenia.

Consult a doctor before use

Do not self-administer vitamins or supplements as some products may not be suitable for your health condition or may interact with medications you are taking.

• Talk to your doctor if you:
  • Are undergoing cancer treatment or chemotherapy.
  • Have a blood disorder or bone marrow disease.
  • Have liver, kidney disease, or other chronic conditions.
  • Want to supplement vitamins to increase neutrophil count.

Report all medications currently being used

Before prescribing vitamins or nutritional products, your doctor needs to know all medications and supplements you are currently taking to avoid adverse interactions.

• Please provide information on:
  • Prescription medications.
  • Over-the-counter medications.
  • Vitamins and minerals.
  • Herbal remedies or functional foods.
  • Other nutritional supplements.

Note

Supplementing with vitamins and nutrients is only effective when properly indicated and addresses the correct cause. If low neutrophil count is due to chemotherapy, infection, bone marrow disorders, or hematological diseases, prioritizing treatment of the underlying cause combined with a reasonable diet will safely and sustainably improve neutrophil count.

Tip 7: Safe food preparation to prevent infections

Wash food thoroughly before preparation

When neutrophil count is low, the body is more susceptible to bacteria, viruses, and pathogens than usual. Therefore, proper food hygiene is an important step to reduce the risk of infection.

• Thoroughly wash all fresh vegetables, roots, and fruits under clean running water before eating or preparing.
• Remove withered leaves, bruised parts, or signs of spoilage.
• Wash hands thoroughly before handling food to limit bacterial transmission.

Cook and store food properly

Cooking food at appropriate temperatures helps destroy most harmful bacteria and parasites, which is especially important for people with neutropenia.

• Cook meat, fish, seafood, and eggs thoroughly before eating.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer within 2 hours after cooking.
• Reheat food thoroughly before consuming again.
• Do not consume food that shows signs of spoilage or is past its expiration date.

Limit cross-contamination in the kitchen

Bacteria can spread from raw food to cooked food through cooking utensils if not properly sanitized.

• Use separate cutting boards and knives for raw and cooked foods.
• Limit the use of wooden cutting boards or old sponges, as they can easily accumulate bacteria if not cleaned and replaced regularly.
• Clean countertops, knives, cutting boards, and cooking utensils immediately after use.

Note

Adhering to food safety principles is a simple yet very effective way to reduce the risk of infection when neutrophil count is low. In addition to increasing neutrophils through nutrition and treatment as prescribed by a doctor, maintaining hygienic eating habits will help protect the immune system and limit complications from infections.

Part 2: Medical treatments for low neutrophil count

Step 1: Take prescribed medications to increase neutrophil count

Discuss with your doctor about medications to stimulate neutrophil production

If neutrophil count is severely low, especially due to cancer chemotherapy or bone marrow disease, your doctor may prescribe medications to stimulate the bone marrow to produce neutrophils. This is a widely used medical treatment to reduce the risk of infection in people with weakened immune systems.

• Some commonly used medications are granulocyte colony-stimulating factors (G-CSF), such as filgrastim.
• These medications should only be used when prescribed by a doctor after evaluating the severity of neutropenia and its underlying cause.
• Do not self-purchase or use medications as they may cause unwanted side effects or be unsuitable for your health condition.

How are these medications used?

Depending on the individual case, the doctor will choose an appropriate treatment regimen to help increase neutrophil count and limit complications from infection.

• Medications are typically administered by:
  • Subcutaneous injection.
  • Intravenous infusion in some cases.
• Individuals undergoing chemotherapy or with very low neutrophil counts may need to take medication daily or in cycles of treatment until blood counts recover.

Monitor side effects during treatment

Like many other medications, neutrophil-stimulating drugs can cause some unwanted side effects.

• Common side effects include:
  • Nausea.
  • Mild fever.
  • Bone pain.
  • Back pain.
  • Muscle or joint aches.
• If high fever, shortness of breath, severe pain, or any unusual symptoms occur, contact a doctor immediately for assessment and timely treatment.

Note

Neutrophil-stimulating drugs are not suitable for everyone. Their use should be based on blood test results, the cause of neutropenia, and overall health status. Patients should follow up regularly to monitor neutrophil counts and adjust the treatment regimen as needed.

Step 2: Treat the underlying cause of neutropenia

Identify the cause of low neutrophils

Not all cases of neutropenia are due to malnutrition or chemotherapy side effects. This condition can also result from various other diseases such as bacterial infections, viral infections, immune disorders, or bone marrow diseases. Therefore, accurately identifying the cause is a crucial step to effectively increase neutrophils.

• Your doctor may order:
  • Complete blood count (CBC).
  • Tests to identify infectious agents.
  • Bone marrow function assessment if necessary.
  • Other tests based on symptoms and medical history.

Treat underlying diseases

If low neutrophils are caused by an infection or another disease, treating the underlying cause will help the neutrophil count gradually recover.

• Depending on the case, your doctor may:
  • Prescribe antibiotics if there's a bacterial infection.
  • Treat viral diseases or other underlying conditions.
  • Recommend hospitalization for monitoring if the risk of infection is high or neutrophils are severely low.
• After the infection is controlled and health improves, the neutrophil count will usually increase over time.

Monitoring throughout treatment

Regular monitoring helps assess treatment effectiveness and detect complications early.

• Undergo blood tests as scheduled by your doctor.
• Report any signs such as fever of 38°C or higher, chills, sore throat, persistent cough, or any symptoms of infection immediately.
• Do not stop medication or change your treatment regimen without your doctor's guidance.

Note

For people with low neutrophils, treating the underlying cause often yields more long-term benefits than simply focusing on nutritional supplements. Combining treatment of underlying diseases, a balanced diet, and infection prevention measures will help increase neutrophils and protect the immune system safely and sustainably.

Step 3: Bone marrow transplant for advanced disease

Consider bone marrow transplant in special cases

If neutrophils are low due to severe diseases such as leukemia (blood cancer), aplastic anemia, or other bone marrow disorders, your doctor may recommend a bone marrow transplant. This is a specialized treatment method that replaces damaged bone marrow with healthy bone marrow to restore the ability to produce blood cells, including neutrophils.

• Bone marrow transplant is usually only considered when:
  • Drug treatment has not been effective.
  • The bone marrow has lost its ability to produce normal blood cells.
  • The patient has severe hematologic diseases as indicated by a specialist.

Bone marrow transplant procedure

Bone marrow transplant is a complex procedure performed at specialized hematology or stem cell transplant centers.

• During the treatment process:
  • The patient will be anesthetized or receive appropriate methods depending on the transplant technique.
  • Healthy bone marrow or hematopoietic stem cells from a compatible donor will be infused into the patient's body.
  • After transplantation, these cells will gradually develop and produce new neutrophils, red blood cells, and platelets.

Post-transplant care

After a bone marrow transplant, the patient needs close monitoring to limit complications and support the recovery process.

• Your doctor may prescribe:
  • Antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungals to prevent and treat infections.
  • Immunosuppressants if transplanted from a donor, to reduce the risk of rejection.
  • Regular blood tests to monitor the recovery of neutrophils and other blood cells.

Note

Bone marrow transplant is a treatment method for certain severe hematologic diseases and is not an option for all cases of neutropenia. The decision for transplantation must be evaluated by a hematologist based on the cause of the disease, the extent of bone marrow damage, overall health status, and the possibility of finding a suitable donor.

Part 3: How to care for people with low white blood cell count

Step 1: Wash hands properly to prevent infection

Maintain regular handwashing habits

When neutrophils are low, the immune system is weakened, making the body more susceptible to bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Proper handwashing is one of the simplest yet most effective measures to reduce the risk of infection and protect health.

• Wash hands with clean water and soap.
• Thoroughly rub all parts of the hands, between fingers, fingertips, under nails, and wrists for at least 20–30 seconds.
• Rinse thoroughly under running water and dry with a single-use paper towel or a clean towel.

Wash hands at critical times

To limit the introduction of bacteria into the body, make it a habit to wash your hands before and after daily activities.

• Always wash your hands:
  • Before eating or drinking.
  • Before preparing or handling food.
  • Before taking medication.
  • After using the restroom.
  • Before touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
  • After coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.

Wash hands after contact with animals

Pets and other animals can carry bacteria or parasites without showing symptoms.

• Wash your hands immediately after:
  • Petting or holding an animal.
  • Cleaning litter boxes, cages, or animal waste.
  • Touching animal food or supplies.

Note

For people with neutropenia, proper hand hygiene plays an equally important role as nutrition or medication. Combining frequent handwashing with personal hygiene, eating cooked food and drinking boiled water, and avoiding contact with sources of infection will help reduce the risk of illness and support the recovery of neutrophils more effectively.

Step 2: Wear a mask to reduce the risk of infection

Wear a mask when in crowded places

When neutrophils are low, the body's ability to fight off bacteria and viruses is weaker than normal. Wearing a mask correctly helps reduce the risk of inhaling droplets containing pathogens, especially in crowded places.

• You should wear a mask when:
  • Going to a hospital or medical facility.
  • Using public transportation.
  • Shopping at supermarkets, markets, or shopping malls.
  • Attending crowded events.
  • Being in close contact with people showing signs of flu or infectious diseases.
• Prioritize using masks with good filtration capabilities and ensure they cover your nose and mouth tightly for better protection.

Wear a mask at home in some cases

Even in everyday living environments, people with neutropenia should proactively protect themselves if there is a risk of exposure to pathogens.

• Consider wearing a mask when:
  • Living with someone who has the flu or an infectious disease.
  • Cleaning dusty areas.
  • Coming into contact with mold or unsanitary environments.
  • Having a caregiver who is experiencing coughing or sneezing symptoms.

Combine with other preventive measures

Wearing a mask will be more effective when combined with other health protection habits.

• Wash hands frequently with soap or hand sanitizer.
• Maintain distance from people with infectious diseases when possible.
• Clean and ventilate living spaces.
• Maintain a healthy diet to support neutrophil production and boost immunity.

Note

Masks help reduce the risk of exposure to pathogens but cannot replace treatments for neutropenia. If symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, or shortness of breath appear while neutrophils are low, seek medical attention promptly for assessment and timely treatment.

Step 3: Limit contact with sick people

Avoid contact with people who have the flu or infections

When neutrophils are low, the immune system is weakened, making it difficult for the body to fight off bacteria and viruses. Even close contact with someone who has a cold, flu, or other infectious diseases can increase the risk of illness.

• Limit contact with people who are:
  • Currently experiencing a cold or flu.
  • Showing symptoms of fever, cough, sore throat, or runny nose.
  • Suffering from other infectious diseases.
• If contact is unavoidable, make sure to:
  • Wear a mask correctly.
  • Maintain a safe distance.
  • Wash hands immediately after contact.

Limit going to crowded places

Crowded areas often increase the risk of exposure to disease-causing agents, especially during flu season or when an epidemic is spreading.

• You should limit visits to:
  • Shopping malls.
  • Supermarkets during peak hours.
  • Crowded markets.
  • Events, festivals, or other large gatherings.
  • Waiting rooms at medical facilities unless absolutely necessary.
• If you have to go out:
  • Wear a mask with good filtration capabilities.
  • Maintain distance from others when possible.
  • Wash hands or use hand sanitizer after touching public surfaces.

Proactively protect your health when neutrophils are low

In addition to avoiding sources of infection, people with neutropenia should combine various measures to protect their immune system.

• Get adequate rest and enough sleep.
• Maintain a balanced diet to support neutrophil production.
• Adhere to follow-up appointments and blood tests as instructed by your doctor.
• Monitor your body temperature daily if recommended by your doctor.

Note

If neutrophils are low accompanied by fever of 38°C or higher, chills, or other suspected signs of infection, seek immediate medical attention. This condition requires early assessment and treatment to reduce the risk of serious complications.

Step 4: Maintain oral hygiene to prevent infection

Daily oral care

When neutrophils are low, the oral cavity is more susceptible to inflammation, ulcers, and bacterial infections than usual. Maintaining proper oral hygiene helps limit bacterial growth and reduces the risk of infection.

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day or after every meal if possible.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to minimize gum damage.
• Gently use dental floss to remove plaque between teeth if your gums are not bleeding or overly sensitive.

Proper gargling

Gargling helps clean the oral cavity and reduces the amount of bacteria on the mucous membranes.

• You can gargle with physiological saline solution or a mouthwash as instructed by your doctor.
• In some cases, a solution made from clean water and a small amount of baking soda, as advised by healthcare professionals, can be used to help clean the oral cavity.
• Avoid overusing mouthwashes containing a lot of alcohol if your oral mucous membranes are dry or ulcerated, as it can cause irritation.

Keep your toothbrush clean

A toothbrush can accumulate bacteria if not cleaned and stored properly.

• Rinse the toothbrush thoroughly under running water after each use.
• Allow the toothbrush to air dry in a well-ventilated area.
• Do not share your toothbrush with others.
• Replace your toothbrush every 3 months or sooner if the bristles are frayed.

Note

If neutropenia is accompanied by mouth ulcers, bleeding gums, toothache, or white patches in the oral cavity, seek medical attention for examination. Early treatment of oral problems will help reduce the risk of infection and support the recovery of neutrophils more effectively.

References

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Content edited by: Lesley Collins Tran.

Information reviewed and verified by expert: Christopher Walker.