Winter protection

Winter protection

Winter is coming!

In Winter your immune system is more susceptible to colds, flues and infections. Here are my top tips to help prevent infection during the winter months.

Winter Diet: It is essential to maintain or even increase your intake of a variety of nutrients such as iron, zinc and vitamin C as they play key role in a healthy immune system. Foods rich in these nutrients include dark, leafy greens; red and yellow fruits and vegetables; lean red meats and pumpkin seeds.

Garlic is a fantastic winter food. The sulfur-containing compounds in garlic help to gave your immune system that extra boost to help battle infection. Use it in soups, salads or roasts.

Berries such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C, all boost your immunity. Frozen berries are cheap and can be used in breakfast smoothies.

Breakfast smoothie: frozen berries, organic yogurt, banana, manuka honey, orange juice. Blend and enjoy.

Exercise: Make sure to exercise in the winter months. Research has shown that exercise has a positive effect on mental health and immunity. Walk, run, swim, do whatever you enjoy.

Sleep: Adequate sleep is essential for health. Sleep will help keep those winter blues at bay. A healthy sleep routine will help prevent infection or will encourage a faster recovery if you do become sick.

Stress: Excess stress dampens your immune system. So watch your stress levels, relax when possible and maintain a positive mental attitude.    

Hydrotherapy: Hydrotherapy is an excellent way to build resilience, vitality and your immunity. Hot/cold shower: During your normal shower turn the temperature to cold (the colder the better) for 1-2 minutes than back to hot, Repeat this cycle 3 times and finish on the cold. Follow shower with a brisk towel rub.