Fact-check: Does your immune system need boosting this winter?

Written by Dr. Kate McCann
5th November 2022

In this economy, when money is tight, it is important to highlight that your – and your child’s -immune system does not require the purchase of supplements, tonics, homeopathy, pre/probiotics, salt therapy, any physical manipulations, restrictive diet/meal plans…

What actually works to help support your immune system this winter?

1. Get your #flushot. It’s #YourBestShot this winter. Many, many people are eligible for a free flu vaccine. Get it sooner rather than later.
2. #KnowPneumo: If you are over 65 or over 19 with certain underlying conditions, check with your doctor or chemist about a #pneumococcal vaccine
3. Make sure childhood immunisations are up-to-date.
4. Adequate #VitaminD. Vitamin D supplements should be given this winter to all children from infancy through the age of 4. They need 5 micrograms. You can ask your chemist to help find a preparation right for you (right amount and whether you want drops or gummies, etc.) Adults can take a supplement of 10 micrograms a day. Don’t take more than that unless prescribed by your doctor: extra Vitamin D won’t “boost” your immune system, and ingesting excess can be harmful.
5. Adequate Vitamin C is found in fruits and veggie (including broccoli and potatoes). excess vitamin C won’t do any harm – it just becomes expensive pee. Most people get enough from their diet and don’t need a supplement.

Your best bet: The most important things to stay healthy this winter don’t come in a bottle from the chemist: eat a healthy diet, get regular (outdoor if possible!) physical activity, get enough sleep, take time to de-stress, wash your hands, wear masks on crowded public transport, cover your coughs/sneezes, and stay home if you are unwell (nobody wants what ever bug you have, even if it’s antigen negative.)

Remember that young children (through preschool) will get up to 12 viral infection this year (it’s normal!) and mostly clustered during the winter. We’ve talked about it before you and you have have a look back in detail:  Crechitis

 

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