Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor, or G-CSF, is a cell-producing growth factor that stimulates the bone marrow to produce white blood cells. It's produced naturally in the body, and is also contained in drugs, such as filgrastim, commonly used for cancer patients for the detrimental effects of chemotherapy on their immune systems. There are several natural G-CSF alternatives that may stimulate your immune system; however, it is important to speak to your doctor before trying any natural substances to enhance the production of white blood cells.
Beta-Glucans
Beta-glucans are thought to be powerful immune system modulators -- or boosters of white cell production in the bone marrow -- and are found in food sources such as mushrooms, barely, oats and yeast. According to the website Beta-GlucanInfo.com, yeast is the "mother of all beta-glucans for immune system support." Leading health scientist Dr. Paul Clayton, Ph.D., reports that animal and human investigations have indicated that beta-glucans are effective modulators of the innate immune system -- your primary defense against bacteria, viruses and even cancer. Beta-glucans are obtained from the cell walls of yeast and have been given top ratings as immune enhancers, according to Clayton.
Mushrooms
According to the Agricultural Research Service, or ARS, mushrooms play a key role in maintaining a healthy immune system. A study published in the June 2007 edition of "The Journal of Nutrition" discovered that mice fed white button mushrooms had boosted innate immune systems and an increased performance of dendritic cells -- cells that produce T-cells -- which are vital in the defense against pathogens. In addition, researchers stated that the beta-D-glucans in mushrooms were believed to play a large role in the mice's immune enhancement. Consult your doctor before adding mushrooms to your diet.
Herbs
Several herbs are believed to enhance the production of white blood cells. Astragalus has long been used in Chinese medicine as an immune-modulating herb, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM. For years, echinacea has been thought to benefit colds; the NCCAM reports that there is some evidence that it does improve the immune system. Cat's claw, or una de gato, has been utilized for centuries -- even as far back as the Inca civilization -- as an immune system booster. This herbal remedy reportedly supports the impaired immune systems of those with cancer, AIDS and a variety of other viral diseases. Additionally, laboratory animal investigations have indicated that cat's claw may stimulate some parts of the immune system, notes the NCCAM. Despite their impressive backgrounds, additional scientific evidence is needed to support the use of astragalus, echinacea and cat's claw for the immune system.
Vitamins
Vitamin C "tops the list of immune system boosters," says pediatrician William Sears. It is easily obtained through fruits, vegetables and supplements -- and is perhaps the most investigated nutrient that increases white cell production. Dr. Sears also recommends vitamin E, which has been shown to improve white blood cell counts in the elderly.
References
- Macmillan Support Center: G-CSF
- Dr. Paul Clayton: Immune System Boost
- Beta Force: Beta Glucan - The Different Types
- Agricultural Resource Service: Boost Immunity With Food and Sun
- "The Journal of Nutrition"; Dietary Supplementation With White Button Mushroom Enhances Natural Killer Cell Activity in C57BL/6 Mice; Dayong Wu et al. ; June 2007
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: NCCAM High-Priority Topics for Mechanistic Research on CAM Natural Products
Member Comments