While blood cells are the driving force behind a healthy immune system. But a low white blood cell count doesn't necessarily mean there's anything to worry about. In fact, white blood cell measurements from blood tests are best considered in context of your historic data and whether recent tests deviate from your normal. Here's a comprehensive overview of white blood cells, the reasons they might be low, and how to support their production.

Our current reality is undoubtedly anxiety-inducing. And understandably, demand for household products such as toilet-paper and hand sanitizer has spiked in response. But perhaps more surprising is the surge in e-commerce sales of self-care products containing CBD oil. CBD is perhaps best known for its beneficial effects on anxiety and sleep, and up until recently, this was merely hearsay.[1] The past five years have been pivotal for the legalization of CBD and its use in clinical trials. But ...

A major threat of COVID-19 is its differential impact on people with pre-existing health conditions; from what we know so far, COVID-19 is more dangerous for people with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, hypertension, and cancer.[1] But if you (or someone you love) fall into this demographic, there are actions you can take to optimize your overall health and well-being—and your immune response to a potential infection. Here's a list of science-based changes to ...

At InsideTracker, we've always been here to provide you with science-based guidance and the essential truths about your blood and genetic biomarkers—and now is no different. We noticed an influx of misinformation spreading about immunity and respiratory infections like COVID-19, and it's times like these when we feel we have a role to fill. Respiratory infections (also called respiratory tract infections) affect the sinuses, throat, airways or lungs, and include a range of illnesses from ...

It’s the leading cause of death for men, women, and most ethnic and racial groups. It kills more people than all forms of cancer combined. And one person dies from it every 37 seconds.[1] Heart disease continues to be the greatest threat to American health, and yet, our healthcare system fails to prevent this deadly disease. One way to tackle this issue is to be proactive and access your bloodwork and DNA data—insights into genetic predispositions and nutrition and lifestyle habits can help you ...

Maintaining a thriving sex drive with age has always been a challenge, and the distractions of the 21st century haven't made it any easier to create and maintain intimate moments with our partners. But research shows that a healthy sex life is important for wellness and aging—those who have regular, partnered sex have different levels of stress, inflammation, and even blood pressure than those who don't. And if you find it hard to feel 'turned on' on a daily or weekly basis, there are ...

Exercise and training routines have many benefits: improved mood, strong muscles and bones, weight management, and reduced risk of chronic diseases, among others. But big training weeks without adequate recovery can negatively impact health and performance, and even your immune system. Here we’ll take a closer look at how training load—or the amount you exercise—can impact your immune system, and what you can do to stay healthy. 

Performance athletes are always looking for the next best thing to boost recovery and edge out the competition. But sometimes, therapies with ancient roots prove to be tried and true. Two such therapies—sauna bathing and cryotherapy—have become increasingly popular in the modern age for athletes and the everyday man alike. But while there's lots of research about the effects of temp therapy on health, some evidence still remains hot and cold.