We are loving, feeding and strengthening our immune systems this winter through diet, supplementation, and lifestyle changes.
Winter provides the perfect storm to test our body’s defence mechanisms to their limit; a mixing pot of bugs, more time spent in confined spaces, less sunlight and increased stress. It can exacerbate an underlying health problem or simply leave us run down and lethargic.
Exercise, regular sleep and eating well are crucial to supporting the immune system, but supplementing your body with key vitamins, minerals and nutrients can also be hugely beneficial at this time of year.
Which nutrients can we incorporate into our diets to support us?
- Vitamin C: Citrus fruit, red and green bell peppers, tomatoes
- Vitamin A: Pumpkin seeds, cooked sweet potato, carrots
- Vitamin E: Almonds, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds
- Zinc: Organic tofu, lentils, oatmeal
- Selenium: Eggs, brazil nuts, shiitake mushrooms
- Sulforaphane: Broccoli sprouts, brussel sprouts, cauliflower
- Beta Glucans: Medicinal mushrooms, seaweed, brewers yeast
Lifestyle practices to support:
1. A 45 minute walk every day – this can be split into two walks throughout the day rather than one block of 45 minutes. Walking increases lymphatic return, which is essential as your lymph carries your body’s natural defences and the lymphatic system is responsible for immunity
2. Dry brushing – using a body brush, starting at the extremities and moving towards the heart. This also stimulates the lymphatic system, filtering out toxins and waste
3. Daily meditation and/or breathwork – an overactive mind puts a strain on our bodies and lowers immunity. Meditating helps to manage stress and remain grounded
Our top five supplement recommendations to naturally support immunity:
1 – Vitamin D3 and K2
Vitamin K2 works synergistically with D3 to improve immune response
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Viridian D3 & K2
£23.65
2 – Vitamin C
A high potency form of Vitamin C, supportive for both the innate and adaptive immune system
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Product on sale
Viridian Extra C 550Mg 90Caps
£17.15 Now £13.64
3 – Vitamin A
Beta Carotene is converted to Vitamin A within the body and our bodies self-regulate its conversion for the normal function of the immune system
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Bionutri Carotone
£25.40
4 – Reishi mushroom tincture
Containing beta-glucans, reducing inflammation and improving immune function through an increase in white blood cells
5 – Echinacea tincture
A traditional herbal remedy used for the symptomatic relief of colds and upper respiratory tract conditions
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Product on sale
Vogel Echinaforce Tincture 100Ml
£24.10 Now £19.28
Need help getting started…
Speak with one of our Health & Wellbeing advisors in-store, or online
References
Available on request.
Important: if you have a health condition or are taking medication it is important to consult with your GP before taking supplements.
