White blood cells are specialized cells that exist in the blood. Their purpose is to neutralize antigens, which are substances foreign to the body that evoke an immune response. To carry out the this function, white blood cells rely on proteins, which facilitate the functions of our body. The instruction to synthesize protein is encoded in your DNA.
Function
White blood cells are a natural extension of the immune system that originate in the bone marrow and help fight foreign invaders such as bacteria, viruses, allergens and other potentially harmful organisms. They are much less common than the oxygen-carrying red blood cells, outnumbered 700-to-1, but are still vitally important to the health of the body.
Types
There are several kinds of white blood cells. T-lymphocytes, for example, patrol the body in search of antigens. B-lymphocytes manufacture antibodies, which are blood proteins that destroy germs. Both neutrophils and macrophages scavenge antigens from the blood to dispose of them in the lymphatic system. In addition, the rare eosinophils and basophils appear during certain diseases and increase the blood flow to the region.
Expert Insight
White blood cells require proteins from the diet to combat antigens. Protein is excreted from the body every day and needs to be replaced. "One of the ways immune cells fight against pathogens is by increasing their numbers," says Simin Nikbin Meydani, associate director of the Jean Mayer Research Center on Aging at Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts. "To increase immune cell proliferation, you need protein and amino acids."
Amount
To achieve the healthiest possible immune system, consume 0.8 to 1g of protein per kg of body weight. For example, a person who weighs 160 lbs., which is equivalent to 72kg, would need to consume at least 57g of protein per day. Preferably, it would be closer to 72g. If you also lift weights or engage in serious athletic activity, you may need to increase your consumption to as much as 1.5 to 2g per kg body weight.
Foods
Proteins are made of amino acid building blocks. Animal products contain all of the essential acids but also tend to have a lot of saturated fat. According to the American Heart Association, you should consume no more than 7 percent of your total calories from saturated fat, so you need to accentuate lean proteins such as fish, seafood, poultry without the skin, eggs and soy products. Lentils and beans are also sources but do not contain all of the essential amino acids.
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