Winter's are getting harsher, and each year it takes a toll on our bodies. We are more susceptible to illness, the darker days make us tired, and our bodies need that extra strength to function. But, why? Some may say it's simple: it's cold. But how does the cold actually make a difference and if we can't change the weather, how do we protect ourselves? We intend to sum up some of the common causes of winter illness and what steps can be taken to take better care of yourself this winter.
Understanding our Bodies in Winter
To understand, we need glance at biology. Colds, which are a common virus that occurs more during winter, spread and develop through the nose. The nose is able to detect bacteria and produce fluid sacs which surround the nostrils and attack the bacteria before they can cause infection. Due to the temperature drop during winter, there is a reduction of fluid sacs produced, creating more space for bacteria to cause infection. Furthermore, the hairs in our nose (known as 'cilia') helps to catch foreign bacteria. These hairs become covered in mucus which Another important factor is our blood vessels. Cold and dry air causes respiratory blood vessels to narrow, which causes white blood cells, that would normally travels through these vessels to fight germs, to become blocked.
Our body becomes more likely to contract illness because of this and our body's defenses fall weaker during winter. Vitamin deficiencies, such as Vitamin D from the lack of sun, cause a lack of defense in the immune system, as Vitamin D increases autoimmunity, helping the body automatically detect and fight harmful bacteria or viruses. Furthermore, it can help the production of serotonin, as our energy levels deplete and increase our melatonin, which causes a drop in serotonin, leading to issues such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) It also impacts our energy levels, creating a fatigue that is enhanced in combination with the days being darker for longer, affecting our mental
So, to sum up, our body falls victim to an array of changes during the winter months which reduces protection from bacteria and causes a greater likelihood of catching viruses or illnesses around winter. So what should you do to protect your body more during winter season?
Protecting your immunity
Before getting into specifics, we must acknowledge the common and one of the most choices in maintaining health and safety from illnesses: hygiene! Hand washing, using sanitizer, covering your face when sneezing or coughing, and keeping yourself isolated when sick to prevent spreading are key to preventing greater illness and infecting others. Self-care also holds as one of the strongest grounds to stay well this winter. Staying hydrated, prioritizing sleep and nutritious foods
As mentioned above, a vitamin deficiency during winter, causing less protection from germs. Therefore, increasing vitamin intake during winter helps support the immune system, digestion and gut health. This could be through more nutrient dense food, or supplements. Supplements often are stronger can be quicker and more convenient for some people, such as those with allergies. Winter supplements hold vitamins such as:
Zinc: A known essential for the immune system, zinc ions assist in pathways for the immune system and prevent bacteria and fungi from entering the immune system.
Vitamin D: A regulator in the function of the immune system, supporting autoimmunity and preventing respiratory diseases.
Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that works to maintain cells in the immune system by protecting from infection and encourage the production of new immune cells.
Vitamins have other benefits outside of the immune system, such as Vitamin C for skin or Vitamin D for energy, yet our body craves nutrients more in winter due to the extra strain and energy to maintain heat and fight off infection.
Our Virocin holds all of these vitamins and uses zinc ionophores to improve the absorption of nutrients and vitamins into the body. An ideal supplement for the winter months, combining zinc, vitamin C and D into a convenient capsule. Combing this with a healthy lifestyle and taking extra care over winter months will show improvements in energy, immunity, inflammation and MORE.
Check out Virocin here: LAZU VIROCIN™ Natural Zinc, boost immunity, reduce inflammation, lower – Lazu Life UK