I tried 3 immunity ‘boosting’ supplements to fight off winter bugs – the lozenges are on offer and taste great
IT is that time of year when the chances of catching colds and flu increase as we stay indoors more, creating the perfect environment for viruses to spread.
But instead of waiting to reach for pills and potions when you are sick, act now to build resilience to fight them off.
Today I’ve looked at ways to intervene before illnesses strike . . .
PILLS
SOME nutrients, such as vitamin D, are crucial for a resilient immune system, but most of us don’t get enough from food or sunlight.
ARTAH’s immune support supplement contains vitamins D3 and K2. D3 supports the immune system, and K2 helps with vitamin D absorption. The NHS advises taking vitamin D supplements, especially at this time of year when there is less sunlight.
The capsules are easy to swallow and pure, with no bulking agents in them.
60 tablets, £26, artah.co
POWDER
YOUR gut can play a key role in your immunity – the key is keeping the microbes in there happy.
You could take probiotic pills, but if you’re sick of pills, then Nutravita’s Fibre Boost is a great idea.
This powder is made up of several fibres including psyllium husk, flaxseed and inulin – a soluble fibre in fruit and veg, and a prebiotic that is great for gut health.
Just add a small scoop of the powder, which has a subtle vanilla flavour, to yoghurt or a smoothie and mix it together for a quick daily fibre fix.
It’s 92 per cent fibre. Each serving contains a tenth of your 30g daily fibre needs at 3g and you can easily double up.
Great to bung on your breakfast to beat bloating while keeping you regular and boosting your immunity.
150g (30 servings), £27, boots.com
HONEY
BUT not any old honey. Manuka comes from the nectar of New Zealand’s manuka tree and has antibacterial properties which set it apart from traditional honey.
It also has antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits which help support your immune system.
Comvita produces plenty of honeys but I like their new lozenges, which make it easy to incorporate the benefits on the go.
They are more solid than previous lozenges, which could melt in your pocket.
These melt in your mouth, have a great taste and are 100 per cent honey. They come in different strengths and flavours and are on special offer right at the moment.
Six lozenges, £5.99, comvita.co.uk/lozengesandelixirs