Expert Advice for, Staying Healthy, This Autumn.
'The Independent' recently spoke with Dr. Babak Ashrafi, GP and clinical lead for service expansion at Superdrug Online Doctor, for tips on staying healthy this fall.
Rapid shifts from warm to cold weather can stress the body and shock the immune system, making you more vulnerable to colds and infections.
, Dr. Babak Ashrafi, GP and clinical lead for service expansion at Superdrug Online Doctor, via 'The Independent'.
Rapid shifts from warm to cold weather can stress the body and shock the immune system, making you more vulnerable to colds and infections.
, Dr. Babak Ashrafi, GP and clinical lead for service expansion at Superdrug Online Doctor, via 'The Independent'.
It’s important to prepare your body for this sudden cold spell, to keep your immune system on top form, Dr. Babak Ashrafi, GP and clinical lead for service expansion at Superdrug Online Doctor, via 'The Independent'.
1.
Get enough vitamin D, According to Dr. Ashrafi, adding vitamin D-rich foods to your diet is key to strengthening your immune system.
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During colder months, decreased sunlight exposure can cut your main source of vitamin D, which is essential for a healthy immune system, Dr. Babak Ashrafi, GP and clinical lead for service expansion at Superdrug Online Doctor, via 'The Independent'.
According to the NHS, everyone should consider taking a daily supplement which contains at least ten micrograms of vitamin D during fall and winter months.
2.
Dress for the weather, Dr. Ashrafi suggests that the body's core temperature should remain within a narrow range to function optimally.
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2.
Dress for the weather, Dr. Ashrafi suggests that the body's core temperature should remain within a narrow range to function optimally.
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When you’re exposed to cold temperatures, your body works harder to maintain this temperature, diverting energy and resources away from other essential functions, including immune responses, Dr. Babak Ashrafi, GP and clinical lead for service expansion at Superdrug Online Doctor, via 'The Independent'.
When you’re exposed to cold temperatures, your body works harder to maintain this temperature, diverting energy and resources away from other essential functions, including immune responses, Dr. Babak Ashrafi, GP and clinical lead for service expansion at Superdrug Online Doctor, via 'The Independent'.
3.
Stick to a healthy diet and stay hydrated, Dr. Ashrafi recommends a well-balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, lean protein and whole grains.
Ensure you’re staying hydrated despite the cold, to keep mucous membranes moist, helping to defend against infections, Dr. Babak Ashrafi, GP and clinical lead for service expansion at Superdrug Online Doctor, via 'The Independent'
