Table of Contents
- 1. Sugar Rush
- 2. TATT
- 3. Black and Blue
- 4. Thirsty Work
- 5. Sleep Struggles
- 6. Sore Spot
- 7. Skin Deep
- 8. Ear This
- 9. Sick Of It
It’s that time of year again. Half of your team is out with a cold, train carriages are packed with people coughing, and you just can’t shake that sore throat.
But are some individuals more susceptible to illness than others?
Most of us will catch at least one cold this year – but are you more likely to fall ill than others?Credit: Getty
Colds affect 15 million people in the UK every year. Most adults will experience two to three colds annually, while children typically have five to eight.
They are most prevalent during autumn and winter, when the weather is colder and we spend more time indoors.
However, some individuals seem to be constantly battling infections, while others remain unaffected.
This could be due to the efficiency of our immune systems – the body's defense mechanisms that work to keep germs out and eliminate any that enter.
Sanjay Nathwani, a community pharmacist, tells Sun Health: “While your immune system aims to protect you from illnesses, lower temperatures can make it more challenging for people to stay healthy.
“When it’s cold outside, we tend to stay indoors to keep warm.
“This often results in closer contact with one another, making it easier for viruses to spread from person to person.”
Dr. Naomi Newman-Beinart, a nutritionist and psychologist, adds: “We usually only notice our immune system when we catch a cold or feel fatigued.
“However, there are often early warning signs that indicate your defenses may need a little extra support.
“Here are nine subtle clues to be aware of.”
1. SUGAR RUSH
Do you constantly crave sweets or reach for a slice of cake to combat the 4 PM slump?
This could indicate that your immune system is struggling.
Dr. Newman-Beinart explains: “When your immune system is under pressure, your body seeks quick energy fixes, which can lead you to crave sugary foods more than you'd like.
“To support your immune system, replace sugary snacks with fruits and a handful of nuts or seeds, which are rich in essential fiber and minerals.”
2. TATT
Feeling tired all the time (TATT) can be common when the weather changes.
However, persistent fatigue could be a warning sign.
Sanjay states: “If you’re getting enough sleep but still feel drained, it may indicate that your body is conserving energy to support a weakened immune system in fighting off illnesses and infections.
“Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet ensures you get the nutrients your body needs, which supports your overall well-being.”
Make sure you’re eating a variety of foods, prioritizing hydration, drinking at least six to eight glasses of fluids daily, and reducing your sugar and fat intake.
“If you’re having trouble eating well, consider taking a dietary supplement to fill any nutritional gaps,” Sanjay suggests.
This could be a B12 supplement if you're over 50, or iron if you're vegetarian, for example.
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Struggling to fall asleep or waking up during the night could be a warning signCredit: Getty
“The only nutrient we don’t obtain from our diet is vitamin D,” Sanjay mentions.
“Our bodies produce vitamin D when our skin is exposed to sunlight; however, the sun isn’t strong enough during the autumn and winter months. Therefore, it's recommended that everyone aged four and older consider taking a 10 mcg vitamin D supplement during this time.”
You can purchase a bottle of 90 tablets from Boots for £2.75, which works out to just
