The final months of the year can become incredibly hectic, often leaving us feeling overwhelmed and stressed. When our bodies encounter a stressor, they react with a “fight or flight” response, causing a surge of chemicals and immune cells. Prolonged excessive stress can disrupt our immune regulation, create inflammatory conditions, and weaken the antibody response to infections, ultimately impairing immune function.
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.
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.
