The thought that you, or your children, may have threadworms probably makes you feel ill, not to mention wondering if your standards of hygiene and cleanliness have slipped. In most cases, hygiene is not the issue. Instead it is more the fact that threadworms (also known as pinworms) are fairly common in the wider environment, and easy to catch. The good news is that threadworms are easily treated.
Vitamin D is sometimes called the “sunshine vitamin” because it is produced in our skin in response to sunlight. It is an essential vitamin that helps to regulate calcium in our bodies and so is vital for good bone health and preventing osteoporosis. Research over the past few years has also shown some evidence that vitamin D plays a role in our immune response and how susceptible we are to infection.
There is a broad awareness of the need to maintain a healthy body weight for good health but it is a complicated issue that many people struggle with. You can see if you are in a healthy weight range by calculating your Body Mass Index (BMI) using a weight to height ratio. Healthy eating and activity are keys to reducing obesity and maintaining a healthy weight. Drinking plenty of water is also vital.
As the days grow shorter and the skies greyer, many of us start to feel the effects of winter not just in our bodies—but in our minds too. It is common to feel flat, fatigued or unmotivated during the colder months. Maintaining positive mental health is just as important as managing physical health and there are many practical steps we can take to support our wellbeing through the season.
If you’ve found yourself wondering whether your cold needs more than just rest and hot tea, you are not alone. We look at causes of winter coughs and colds and offer advice to help you recover more comfortably.