It is important to look after your immune health with nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc in order to stay as well as you can all year round. Especially so during the Christmas period when colds and flu are rife and everywhere you turn there is a box of chocolates staring you in the face, staying fit and healthy can seem like mission impossible. There are however a number of things you can do which will help you to have a healthy and happy Christmas…

Supplement with Vitamin D

It is important that we get enough Vitamin D as it is required for supporting the immune system and helping prevent illness. During the winter months however there is a greater risk of becoming vitamin D deficient due to the lack of sunlight. Although we can get vitamin D from our diet, foods only provide low levels of vitamin D. Taking 10ug of a vitamin D supplement daily is therefore a good and convenient option and is recommended by Public Health England.

Practice Good Hygiene

Practising good hygiene is one way you can increase your chances of overcoming the odds and staying well this Christmas. Washing your hands regularly especially before touching food, using tissues when you sneeze and making sure you wash any cups or cutlery thoroughly to kill any germs are just a few of the ways you can prevent the spread of germs.

Stay Warm

Health issues such as sore throats, colds, flu, respiratory and cardiovascular conditions are all exacerbated by cold weather. Therefore try to stay warm this winter both when outside and inside the house. You can do this by wrapping up in lots of layers and wearing a hat and gloves when out and about. Then when inside make sure the heating is on and try and have warm food and drinks throughout the day. Blankets are also great especially when watching Christmas movies!

Vitamin C is Key

Vitamin C is another nutrient you should ensure you are getting enough of this winter. It is well known that Vitamin C is needed for the normal function of the immune system and protecting against any illnesses. It is important you consume plenty of vitamin C each day as it cannot be stored by the body and therefore we need to provide the body with a regular source. Consuming plenty of leafy greens, tomatoes, broccoli and citrus fruits will do the trick!

If you are concerned that you are not getting enough vitamin C through a varied and balanced diet, you may benefit from taking a vitamin C supplement daily.

Get Active

I know when it’s cold outside it’s tempting to just to give the gym a miss and stay nice and warm at home, but resist the temptation! Everyone knows the health benefits of exercise but given the amount of food consumed over Christmas, exercising regularly becomes particularly important over this period. Being active isn’t just going to help you burn off all that food and drink it will also help to alleviate stress and stop you from feeling lethargic.  Many people wait till the New Year to get back exercising but why wait? Why not start now and by the time the new year comes around you will have a head start on your health and fitness goals.