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Published on: Sep 11, 2021
2 minute read
By: Second Medic Expert

The Complete Blood Count (CBC) Second Opinion

What is CBC test?

CBC stands for a complete blood count. This test is ordered together with, or in lieu of, other tests to find out certain facts about your blood that you can't observe just by looking at the rest of the machine's readout, such as whether you have any abnormally high levels of red and white cells; if there are too many platelets (blood-clotting cells) or too few; what your hematocrit reading reveals (the percentage of circulating red blood cells); or if there are any abnormalities in how your hemoglobin is doing.

A CBC blood test measures a patient's hemoglobin, hematocrit, and red blood cell count. The "CBC" stands for "Complete Blood Count." A CBC test typically catches dangerous aspects of one's health before they could reach a crisis point because there are telltale green flags that show up on the blood screening. Understanding these green flags is imperative for those who suffer from chronic anemia or those who have been exposed to potentially life-threatening chemicals. This free-form amino acid should be supplemented inside a BCAA product as it has been shown to improve recovery rates following intense exercise sessions and acute liver damage in the rat model.

A cbc test, or complete blood count, is a screening test used to detect abnormalities in the colony of cells that reside in the bone marrow and typically produce all types of blood cells.

It also measures white and red blood cell counts as well as platelet counts. Platelets are the clotting components made by type-megakaryocyte cells residing in the bone marrow. White blood cells help fight infection from bacteria and other germs, while red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs to tissues scattered throughout your body. An abnormal white or red cell indicates a possible illness such as an infection or anemia (which causes reduced numbers of circulating red blood cells

Cbc Test is a diagnostic test used to examine the level of hemoglobin, red cells and white cells in the blood. The CBC can be used to diagnose anemia, infection or other diseases that affect the bone marrow. It may also be done along with a complete blood count (see CBC) or, when necessary, for chemical assessment after taking certain drugs or chemotherapy medications.

The cbc test (complete blood count) is a lab test that provides information on the number and type of cells in your body. A complete blood count (CBC) typically includes information such as red and white cell counts, platelet levels, hemoglobin levels, and other additional data.

A CBC is not typically ordered on its own unless you have symptoms that may be caused by one or more types of problems - for example something that might require further attention such as paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (blood disorder), chronic myelogenous leukemia (cancer), thalassemia major (disease). A CBC with differential is usually ordered when there are concerning symptoms or issues present.

CBC testing is a primary way in which a doctor can examine a patient's general health, because it contains information on many different aspects. A CBC typically records at least 7 different parameters:

•Hemoglobin - The protein in red blood cells that delivers oxygen to tissues and binds with carbon dioxide to carry it back from the tissues to be released into our airways.

•Red Blood Cell Count - Counts how many red blood cells there are, both normal and abnormal types. This cell type has been singled out because its life span averages 120 days so if there were few being produced, or they were not

However, it is more correctly called "CBC" because there are separate tests that are needed for the different parts of the blood - white cells, red cells, platelets, etc., all found in your complete blood count.

What can possibly be measured depends on what additives you need to do along with the primary measurement of how many cells per milliliter of whole blood you have after mixing with plasma or serum. The most common measurements are hemoglobin (the oxygen-carrying part), hematocrit (counts red cell volume) and mean corpuscular volume.

CBC looks at the various types of cells that are present in your blood - red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. This comprehensive test is used to measure the number of each type of cell in relation to one another on a per-microliter basis. It's used primarily as an indicator of health risk for certain time periods (for example infection or bone marrow), but can also be ordered when there are internal bleeding concerns. Common uses include monitoring kidney disease during dialysis treatment, chemotherapy after exposure to radiation therapy, hemolytic anaemias (blood disorders), chronic liver diseases, extreme iron overload due to repeated transfusions, heavy menstrual cycles during pregnancy.

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Immunity Boosting Lifestyle Guide in 2026

A strong immune system is one of the most powerful protections against infections, seasonal illnesses and chronic diseases. In India, with changing lifestyle patterns, stress, pollution and dietary shifts, maintaining immunity has become more important than ever. While supplements and quick fixes are often promoted, long-term immunity is built through consistent lifestyle habits grounded in nutrition, physical activity, sleep, hygiene and preventive health measures.

SecondMedic focuses on data-driven preventive healthcare, helping individuals strengthen immunity naturally through scientific lifestyle changes and continuous health monitoring. This blog offers a comprehensive, India-specific guide to boost immunity effectively.

Understanding Immunity and Why It Matters

Immunity is the body’s defence system made up of cells, tissues and processes that protect against harmful bacteria, viruses and toxins. Strong immunity helps:
• Fight infections efficiently
• Reduce inflammation
• Speed up recovery
• Prevent chronic metabolic diseases

According to the WHO Healthy Eating & Immunity Guidelines, immunity is closely linked to nutrition, sleep, physical activity and stress balance. In India, where lifestyle-related diseases are rapidly increasing, immunity support is essential for long-term health.

India’s Immunity Challenges

1. Changing Diet Patterns

Urban Indian diets increasingly include processed foods, sugary drinks and low-fibre meals.
NFHS-5 reports show rising obesity and nutrient deficiencies among adults and children.

2. High Stress and Sedentary Lifestyle

Long work hours, lack of movement and stress-induced habits weaken immunity over time.

3. Environmental Factors

Pollution and urban crowding increase vulnerability to respiratory issues and infections.

4. Vitamin Deficiencies

ICMR studies indicate widespread deficiencies in Vitamin D, B12, iron and zinc—core nutrients for immunity.

These challenges underline the need for simple, consistent habits that support immune function naturally.

Nutrition: The Foundation of Strong Immunity

Indian cuisine offers many immunity-boosting ingredients when used correctly.

1. Vitamin C-Rich Foods

Important for immune cell activity and protection against infections.
Include:
• Amla
• Oranges
• Guava
• Lemon
• Tomatoes
• Capsicum

2. Antioxidant-Rich Foods

Help reduce inflammation and neutralise oxidative stress.
Include:
• Berries
• Green leafy vegetables
• Nuts and seeds
• Beetroot
• Carrots

3. Indian Super-Spices

Indian spices are known globally for medicinal properties.
• Turmeric: Anti-inflammatory, supports cell repair
• Ginger: Antiviral and digestion-friendly
• Tulsi: Improves respiratory immunity
• Garlic: Natural antibacterial properties
• Cinnamon: Balances blood sugar and immunity

4. Probiotics for Gut Health

A healthy gut supports nearly 70% of immunity (Lancet Nutrition Research India).
Include:
• Curd
• Buttermilk
• Homemade pickles
• Fermented foods

5. Hydration

Water helps detoxify the body and support lymphatic immune circulation.

Exercise: A Natural Immune Booster

Moderate daily exercise improves circulation, reduces inflammation and supports immune cell movement.

Recommended activities:
• 30–45 minutes brisk walking
• Yoga and pranayama
• Strength training 2–3 times a week
• Cycling or swimming
• Stretching and mobility work

WHO guidelines highlight that even 20 minutes of daily movement significantly improves immune resilience.

The Role of Sleep in Immunity

Sleep is essential for immune cell repair and hormone regulation.

Lack of sleep leads to:
• Higher inflammation
• Lower antibody response
• Increased infection risk

Healthy sleep habits:
• 7–8 hours of sleep daily
• Avoiding screens 45 minutes before bed
• Consistent sleep schedule
• Light meals before bedtime

Stress Management for Immunity

Chronic stress increases cortisol levels, weakening immune function.

Effective stress-reduction practices:
• Meditation
• Deep breathing
• Yoga
• Journaling
• Nature walks
• Digital detox periods

A NITI Aayog Preventive Health Report highlights stress as one of the top contributors to lifestyle diseases in India.

Sunlight and Vitamin D

Sunlight exposure for 15–20 minutes daily helps maintain Vitamin D levels, essential for immune health.
ICMR studies show over 70% of urban Indians have Vitamin D deficiency due to indoor lifestyles.

Hygiene and Clean Habits

Simple hygiene practices significantly reduce infections:
• Regular handwashing
• Safe food handling
• Clean drinking water
• Sanitising frequently touched surfaces
• Avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use

Preventive Health Screenings

Regular health check-ups help identify deficiencies or risks early. Important tests include:
• Vitamin levels
• Blood sugar
• Lipid profile
• Thyroid function
• CBC
• CRP (inflammation marker)

SecondMedic also provides preventive risk scoring and remote monitoring for continuous health visibility.

Building a Daily Immunity Routine (India-Specific)

Morning

• Warm water with lemon or turmeric
• Light stretching or walk
• Sunlight exposure
• Seasonal fruit

Afternoon

• Balanced protein-rich lunch
• Hydration
• 10-minute post-meal walk

Evening

• Light yoga or core exercise
• Herbal tea (tulsi/ginger)

Night

• Early dinner
• Digital detox
• 7–8 hours of sleep

Conclusion

Immunity is built through consistent, science-backed lifestyle habits that include good nutrition, restful sleep, balanced activity, stress control and preventive health monitoring. With Indian diets and environmental conditions, simple routine changes can significantly strengthen immunity over time.

SecondMedic supports individuals with personalized immunity profiles, preventive screenings, AI-based nutrition guidance and long-term lifestyle monitoring to help build resilient health.

References

• ICMR Nutrition & Diet Study – Immune Function and Micronutrient Status in India
• National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
• NITI Aayog – Preventive Healthcare & Lifestyle Disease Management Report
• Lancet Nutrition Research India – Role of Micronutrients in Immunity
• WHO Healthy Eating & Immune System Guidelines
• Statista India Wellness & Immunity Trends Report
• EY-FICCI Report on Digital Preventive Healthcare Adoption

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