With freezing temperatures and a cold weather health alert issued, experts advise on taking extra precautions to boost immunity and avoid illness this winter.
As the country prepares for a week of freezing, wintery conditions, with lows of -5C overnight in some areas, experts are urging everyone to take extra measures to stay healthy during this period. With parts of the UK issued with a cold weather health alert by the UK Health Security Agency ( UKHSA ), it is likely that people are to be more vulnerable to catching a cold.
Dr Chun Tang, GP at Pall Mall Medical, explained: “Cold weather itself doesn’t weaken your immune system, but the conditions associated with it can make you more susceptible to infections. In winter, we spend more time indoors with others, which makes it easier for germs to spread.' He added: “Additionally, cold air can dry out the mucous membranes in your nose and throat, reducing their ability to trap and fight off bacteria and viruses. Lower sunlight exposure can also reduce vitamin D levels, which are crucial for immune health.' People will weakened immune systems, such as people who are pregnant or have chronic conditions such as diabetes or asthma, are more vulnerable at this time of year. Young children and older adults are also more likely to become ill. In hopes of avoiding illness during the cold snap, here are eight ways you can boost your immune systems to fight off wintery bugs. 1. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night Dr Tang advises that you should consistently aim to have between seven and nine hours sleep every night and keep a regular sleep schedule even through to the weekends. He said: 'Sleep is when your body repairs itself and produces infection-fighting cells and antibodies, so chronic sleep deprivation can reduce the production of these vital cells, making it harder for your body to ward off illness.' 2. Minimise stress “When you’re stressed, your body releases cortisol, a hormone that can suppress immune function if levels remain high for too long,” added Dr Tang. “Chronic stress also promotes inflammation, which can further weaken your body’s defences”, ,
HEALTH IMMUNITY COLD WEATHER WINTER UKHSA
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