Apparently, winter is coming.
Just like me, you may be lulled into the false hope that this balmy Autumn will continue indefinitely. However, like all good things this too must come to an end. Before long, Winter will announce itself, and with it will come the increased threat of dreaded winter lurgies.
So how can you keep a step ahead of colds and flu and make it through the Winter season in good health?
The secret to getting sick less often is building a strong, healthy immune system. Your immune system is your body’s natural defence force. When it is functioning efficiently it is able to protect you against harmful invaders or to shorten the time or extent of your illness. Unfortunately factors such as stress, lack of exercise, lack of sleep, pollution and a poor diet can wear our defences down and weaken our immune system leaving us vulnerable to colds and flu.
So how do you keep your defences strong?
A diet high in colourful fruits and vegetables, regular exercise, developing relaxation techniques, plenty of water and sleep and supplementing your diet with immune boosting nutrients and herbs will go a long way to keeping you strong and healthy through the winter months and beyond. And don’t forget your gut ! Around 70 % of our immunity originates in the gut, so making sure it is populated with a host of healthy bacteria goes a long way to ensuring that your immune system is up to the task of keeping you well.