Yes, walking has been shown to temporarily increase white blood cells.
Engaging in physical activity like walking can have a notable impact on your body's immune response, particularly concerning white blood cells. These vital cells are part of your immune system, helping to fight off infections and diseases.
The Effect of Walking on White Blood Cells
Studies indicate that even moderate exercise, such as a brisk walk, can lead to a temporary increase in the number of white blood cells circulating in your bloodstream.
According to a 2005 study published in the American College of Sports Medicine's flagship journal, researchers measured the white blood cell count of 15 adults immediately after they completed a 30-minute walk. The results showed a significant increase in white blood cells compared to when the same individuals sat for the same amount of time.
Key Findings from the Study:
- Duration: 30 minutes of walking.
- Participants: 15 adults.
- Comparison: White blood cell count after walking vs. after sitting.
- Result: A significant increase in white blood cells immediately following the walk.
This temporary rise is thought to be due to the physical exertion mobilizing white blood cells from places like the spleen and lymph nodes into the bloodstream, allowing them to circulate more actively.
Why This Matters
While this increase is temporary, regular, moderate exercise like walking is generally associated with overall improved immune function over time. It helps promote good circulation, which allows the cells and substances of the immune system to move through the body efficiently.
However, it's important to note that intense or prolonged exercise without adequate recovery can sometimes have a temporary suppressive effect on immune function immediately afterward, though moderate activity typically supports immune health.
In summary, a moderate walking session, like the 30 minutes studied, can indeed lead to a temporary boost in circulating white blood cells, highlighting one way physical activity interacts with the immune system.
