Loving Our White Blood Cells
Our blood contains billions and billions of cells, both white and red.
White blood cells are famous for being essential to our immune function. For those of us who are lucky to have them functioning as intended, we never have to think about what they’re doing for us. They just serve us, unnoticed, operating in the background.
As do our other cells. The human body is a wondrously complex organism, containing around 200 different types of cells. Within these cells there are about 20 different types of structures or organelles.
Stress is the name of the game these days. As a service to your own self-care, will you join me in sending gratitude to the cells in your body that are keeping you going?
Our white blood cell coloring page gives you the opportunity to meditate on how amazing your body is while easing the stress of the day.
The human body consists of some 37.2 trillion cells. Your body consists of some 37.2 trillion cells.
37.2 trillion cells. All working together. Inside of you. Right now.
That’s amazing, right?
You’re amazing, right?
Print our coloring page now and celebrate you!
What are white blood cells?
Our blood is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma (thin liquid). White blood cells (also called leukocytes), are a key element of the immune system and help our bodies fight infection. By constantly circulating in the blood they are ready to attack any invader. They are called white blood cells because they lack the pigment of red blood cells.
How many white blood cells in the body?
Billions and billions. At the same time, there are about 500 to 1,000 times more red blood cells in the human body than white blood cells. When the number of white blood cells rapidly increases, it is usually a sign of infection. However, a high white blood cell count can also indicate inflammation, trauma, allergy, or disease.
How long do white blood cells live?
White blood cells greatly vary in their life span, ranging from a few days to many years. Fortunately, they are regularly replenished at factories located in the bone marrow.
Are there different types of white blood cells?
There are five main types. Neutrophils, a key defense against bacteria, are by far the most common, constituting between 50% and 70% of the total. They kill bacteria by ingesting them through a process called phagocytosis, in which they surround the bacteria and digest them with enzymes. Neutrophils can destroy five to 20 bacteria in their lifetime of a day or two.
