With the autumn and winter months generally considered a time of coughs, sneezes, colds and flus, we take a look at what exactly is the immune system and what you can do at this time of year to fine tune it with immune nutrition tips.

So what exactly is the immune system?

Quite simply, it is a system which requires harmony and balance. Every part of the body functions better when protected from environmental, emotional and nutritional stress. As it is a complex system, research is ongoing but generally the advice to keep it in tip top shape, is to adopt an overall healthy living strategy.

On the whole, your immune system does a remarkable job of defending you against disease-causing microorganisms. But sometimes it fails: a germ invades successfully and makes you sick. And in autumn and winter months, there is a greater risk of this happening.

Why is immunity lower in winter?

There are various reasons why our immunity is lower at this time of year. The temperature drops and so we turn up the heat and stay indoors. Bacteria thrive in our heated/enclosed environments, allowing more germs breading, so much easier to catch a cold or flu. With less sunlight our vitamin D stores drop too with it no longer being available for its protective effect. Our bodies also need an increase in vitamin C, so we need to stay topped up daily as Vitamin C is water soluble and is not stored in the body. However be careful if considering a Vitamin C supplement. Ascorbic acid is not as good as one may think due to its longer term negative effect on copper metabolism.

Can I do anything to boost my immune system with Nutrition?

Thankfully, yes! To keep a strong and balanced immune system to stay healthy and avoid infections this autumn and winter, follow these top tips:

Give your immune system a real fighting chance this winter by being mindful of your intake of vitamins A, C, D and E, as well as minerals selenium and zinc and Omega 3s. The best way to do this is to eat whole foods, such as quality animal protein, whole grains, nuts and seeds and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.

The darker days and colder weather often comes with a desire to comfort eat but we recommend avoiding processed meats, fried foods, soft drinks and processed baked goods, as consuming too much of these can suppress the immune system and cause low-level inflammation.

Getting more vitamin C in your diet is easier than you might think. Upping you intake of fresh fruit and vegetables is the most convenient way to do so, opting for good sources such as berries, citrus, kiwi, bell peppers, and dark green vegetables.

Boost immunity by adding herbs and spices while cooking. Onions, garlic, ginger, black peppercorn, cayenne pepper, allspice, curry and turmeric are great!

While hot drinks might be your preference, don’t neglect fresh water. Water helps in the production of lymph, which carries white blood cells and other immune system cells. So make sure you get your recommended 2 litres per day.

By this we mean sleep! The body rejuvenates and strengthens when it’s sleeping so aim for 7 to 8 hours at night. Plus, you’ll also feel more revived the next day. Try to include as many of the golden hours of sleep 10pm-2am.

Winter is the perfect season for porridge! There’s nothing quite like kick starting your day with a warm bowlful on a cold morning and it also helps boost your intake of starchy foods and fibre. Plus, with porridge helping you feel fuller for longer, it will curb your temptation to snack on unhealthy foods. You’ll get extra bonus points if you top with fresh fruit or nuts. If you like it sweet, swap the sugar for cinnamon.

Keep an eye on the blog over the next few weeks as we’ll be sharing lots of immune boosting recipes.

Not only will you improve your fitness, exercise boosts immunity and improves sleep quality. As little as a 30 minute brisk walk each day has positive effects.

Vitamin D stores drop in winter so catching some rays when you can is essential. Vitamin D strengthens our immune system so getting outside when you can is important. For dietary intake, boost immunity with fatty fish and if deficient you are recommended to take a daily Vitamin D3 supplement.

As chronic stress and depression can weaken the immune system, which in turn makes our bodies more vulnerable to illness, it’s important to take part in activities which lower your stress levels, so make sure you have some fun this winter!

There are, as always, many more nutritional additions or changes that may help you. These are only a snapshot.

If you are unsure of how to change your eating habits, or need help optimising the foods you eat please do contact us. We would love to help you or your family and friends with any nutrition related queries big or small.

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Gillian x

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Information checked & correct on 16th May 2018, December 2022.