Summer is over and Autumn is definitely in full swing. The changing weather and limited daylight hours can take its toll on our bodies and it’s important to stay healthy and well, more so than ever. Maintaining physical and mental wellbeing is crucial in order to avoid illness and feel energised. Keep reading for our top tips to help you stay well all season long.
The immune system often needs extra support during the changing of the seasons, particularly into autumn and winter. 70% of your immune system is actually in your gut, it is essentially the engine in our body. If you are looking for a boost we would highly recommend a daily Vitamin C supplement alongside a high quality multi-strain probiotic. Vitamin C helps to protect cells from damage, it can help to lower the risk of further complications and reduce the length of symptoms. Probiotics ensure digestive health, help to support a strong immune system and maintain mental and emotional wellness.
We know that our Vitamin D levels are usually maintained by the sun, so it’s obvious that our intake will decrease in autumn and winter. We stay inside away from the cold and wet weather and exposure to sunshine hours are generally reduced. A good Vitamin D supplement can boost both your mood and your immune system and promote bone health. Whilst some Vitamin D can be achieved through eating well, experts recommend taking a daily supplement from October to March to top up.
Seasonal vegetables are fantastic and there is usually a great variety available to choose from at this time of year. Eating fresh seasonal foods such as pumpkin, squash and leafy greens should help to maintain a healthy and balanced diet as they are packed with nutrients that the body requires..
Mushrooms are also full of protein and some such as the Shitake, contain excellent antiviral chemicals and can help to achieve and maintain wellness. A multi mushroom complex supplement may be a good way to introduce them into your diet.
Keeping your fluid levels up throughout the day helps to flush toxins out of your body, which is crucial to maintaining a healthy immune system. Urine colour is actually a really good sign to show if you are hydrated well enough. The darker the urine, the more dehydrated you are.
It is important to try and drink about two litres of fluids every day, even when it is cold. It doesn't have to be plain water, herbal teas and fresh fruit juices are great alternative, healthy options.
The poor weather and cold, dark evenings can be demotivating. Don’t put off going to the gym or going for a run. If you prefer, join an indoor exercise class. Research shows that exercising regularly, even just a daily walk, releases endorphins and can help to reduce stress and anxiety levels. A sedentary lifestyle slows down circulation and metabolism which then weakens the immune system. Exercise is great for the mind, body and soul.
Along with following government advice and guidance, we hope that our tips will help you to stay fit and healthy this autumn and winter.
Sources:
https://www.hellenia.co.uk/blog/post/top-5-supplements-to-keep-you-healthy-throughout-the-autumn-months
www.asnatureintended.uk.com/2019/10/06/autumn-wellness-tips/
www.victoriahealth.com/editorial/five-ways-to-boost-your-wellbeing-this-autumn
www.herbfacts.co.uk/autumn-wellness-and-nutrition/
