Omega 3 fatty acids and other healthy fats help increase the activity of white blood cells. They may also play an important role in the production of compounds that regulate immunity in the body and help protect the body from damage from over-reacting to infections. “Omega 3 fatty acids are immune modulators,” says Dr. Katz.
One thing to keep in mind when choosing fish: Pregnant women and young children should avoid high mercury fishes like King Mackerel, Tilefish, Shark, and Swordfish. See the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Food and Drug Administration fact sheet about mercury in fish.
“Kids, like adults, are deficient in omega 3 fatty acids,” says Dr. Katz. The best way to get omega 3 fatty acids is by eating fatty fish such as tuna, salmon and mackerel. Another good source is krill oil capsules.
Other sources of omega 3 fatty acids:
Flax seeds, flax oil, walnuts
