It’s that time of year when we are surrounded by all sorts of disease-causing bugs, and we are constantly in contact with people who are suffering from colds and ‘flu’s!    

In order to survive the winter chills we need a strong and robust immune system to allow us to enjoy the cooler months rather than sniffle our way through.

The immune system is a complex system that is constantly barraged by stimuli from both internal and external sources. A healthy immune system will effectively fight off such stimuli, keeping us from getting sick. Supporting the immune system is critical to good health, and conversely good health is critical to supporting the immune system. The best approach for healthy immune function is a combination of good lifestyle, stress management, exercise and dietary habits.

Nutritional and plant based supplements may also be helpful in supporting and improving general immune activity. Here are a few winter-warming tips to help you stay healthy. 

NUTRIENTS

Vitamin A plays an essential role in maintaining the integrity of the epithelial and mucosal surfaces that line our respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, which provides a non-specific host defence role. It has been shown to stimulate numerous immune processes including natural killer cells and lymphocytes activity (white blood cells which help fight infection).

Vitamin C has been shown to be antiviral and antibacterial, as well as improving overall resistance to infection. (Vitamin C levels are also quickly depleted during the stress of an infection).

Zinc serves a vital role in many immune system reactions, and also acts synergistically with vitamin A to support immune activity.

Selenium affects all components of the immune system via its involvement in the production of an antioxidant enzyme produced in the body, glutathione peroxidase.

BOTANICALS

Echinacea is widely used for enhancing immune function. It has been shown to activate one of the immune system’s non-specific defence mechanisms and increase the production of chemicals that activate macrophages, resulting in increased activity of many key immune parameters.

Astragalus is a Traditional Chinese herb used for viral infections, with clinical studies showing it to be effective against the common cold.

Panax Ginseng has been shown to exert immunomodulating activity through its ability to enhance many aspects of the immune system including cell mediated immunity, natural killer cell activity and production of interferon.

LIFESTYLE

Get plenty of sleep

Don’t let your stress levels get out of control

Drink lots of fluids, including diluted vegetable juices, soups and herbal teas

Limit sugar consumption (including fruit sugars), as excessive intake can adversely affect the activity of neutrophils.

While it is normal to experience 1-2 colds of mild-moderate severity a year, if you are getting sick more often than this, it may be time to book yourself in for a comprehensive and individualized health check!