What is it?
The immune system protects the body from viruses, bacteria and other foreign agents. To work properly it needs enough sleep, exercise, good nutrition and vitamins and minerals — especially vitamins D and C, zinc, selenium and iron. A shortage of any of them weakens your defences.
It is normal for adults to catch a cold 2–3 times a year. If colds come more often, drag on or lead to complications, or if you often have fatigue, cold sores or skin infections, it is time to pay attention to your immunity. Vitamin D deficiency is especially common in autumn and winter, when there is little sunshine.
Main symptoms
- More than 4 colds or bouts of flu a year
- Slow recovery, a cough that lasts for weeks
- Constant tiredness and weakness
- Frequent cold sores on the lips
- Cuts and scratches that heal slowly
- Frequent digestive upsets
Causes and risk factors
- Lack of sleep and chronic stress
- Deficiency of vitamin D, zinc, iron and other micronutrients
- A monotonous diet low in vegetables and fruit
- Little exercise and time outdoors
- Smoking and alcohol
- Frequent, unsupervised use of antibiotics
Prevention and self-care
- 1
Get enough sleep
Adults need 7–9 hours a night. Immune cells actively recover while you sleep.
- 2
Eat a varied diet
Have vegetables, fruit, greens, legumes, nuts and protein-rich foods every day.
- 3
Move more
30 minutes of brisk walking outdoors every day trains your immune system.
- 4
Wash your hands often
Washing with soap markedly lowers the risk of respiratory and gut infections.
- 5
Manage stress
Chronic stress hormones suppress the immune response. Make time for rest and hobbies.
- 6
Vaccines and check-ups
Seasonal vaccination and regular checks of vitamin D and iron levels are worthwhile.
When to see a doctor
Don't treat yourself in these cases — see a doctor:
- A fever lasts more than 3 days
- You develop shortness of breath or chest pain
- Infections keep coming back throughout the year
- Unexplained weight loss, night sweats or swollen lymph nodes
Nutva products to support your body
As a complement to a healthy lifestyle and your doctor's advice. These products are not medicines.
Nutva Immuno
Vitamin C (200 mg), vitamin D3 (1000 IU), zinc, selenium and vitamins A and E support normal immune function; B vitamins, iron and folate help reduce tiredness and support energy metabolism.
Nutva Omega-3
Omega-3 fatty acids support normal cell-membrane function and the body's balance of inflammatory processes.
Which product is right for you?
Our specialists offer free advice and will help you choose a product for your situation.
Call: 1294