Your white blood cells make up a part of your immune system, helping to keep you healthy and free of infection and disease. Specialized white blood cells generate antibodies, which recognize foreign particles and bacteria. Upon identification, your immune system destroys and neutralizes these particles, preventing or fighting off disease. The health and efficiency of your immune system is partially controlled by nutrients you consume from your diet, and ingesting adequate amounts of vitamins may help support white blood cell functioning.
Vitamin A
One vitamin that can support white blood cell function and the immune system is vitamin A. This vitamin is commonly obtained in the diet in the form of beta-carotene--which is split into two vitamin A molecules within your cells--or as retinyl palmitate found in many vitamin A supplements. The National Academies Press explains that deficiencies in vitamin A consumption lead to diminished immune functioning, indicating that vitamin A is important for the proper function of white blood cells. You can consume adequate levels of vitamin A by eating foods including spinach, milk and eggs, as well as orange-tinted fruits and vegetables.
Vitamin D
Another vitamin involved in proper white blood cell and immune functioning is vitamin D. Following ingestion and absorption into the body, vitamin D can interact with your cells and tissues via a vitamin D receptor, guiding your cell's behavior. The Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University indicates that this vitamin D signaling is important in promoting proper innate immune functioning. As a result, vitamin D supplementation may help support the immune system and white blood cell functioning, helping to fight disease in vulnerable populations such as the elderly. Always consult with a physician before beginning any vitamin D supplementation, as taking too much vitamin D can have adverse health effects, including an increased risk of cardiovascular or kidney disease.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 also plays a role in immune and white blood cell functioning, reports the Linus Pauling Institute. Like all B-family vitamins, vitamin B6 plays a role in metabolism and digestion, helping provide your white blood cells with the fuel needed to fight off infection and disease. Vitamin B6 deficiencies are associated with a decreased immune system and decreased production of white blood cells, eventually leading to low white blood cell counts. Consuming foods rich in vitamin B6, including bananas, salmon or chicken, can help prevent vitamin B6 deficiency. If you already suffer from vitamin B6 deficiency, consult with a physician to explore the possibility of vitamin B6 supplementation to restore proper white blood cell function.
