Foods, supplements, and lifestyle habits that support your immune system’s interferon natural defense.

Researched and written by Keith Bishop, Integrative Cancer Educator, Clinical Nutritionist, Cancer Coach, Retired Pharmacist, and Founder of Prevail Over Cancer.

What Is Interferon?

Interferons are natural proteins your body makes to help fight infections and abnormal cells—including cancer. They act like messengers, telling your immune system to wake up, attack, and clean up. There are three main types:

• Type I (IFN-α and IFN-β): These help stop cancer cells from growing and spreading.
• Type II (IFN-γ): This type activates immune cells to recognize and destroy cancer cells.
• Type III (IFN-λ): Mostly helps protect surfaces like your skin and gut, with growing interest in cancer research.

Interferons are so powerful that some cancer treatments use them directly or try to boost their effects.[i]

Foods That May Help Your Body Make More Interferon

Eating certain foods can suppor...