ALL ABOUT HEALTH
Immune system FAQs
Q Can taking vitamin tablets strengthen my immune system and stop me catching colds?
A Vitamins can be helpful but only if you have an obvious nutrient deficiency. Q What are the signs of a weakened immune system?
A Things that may suggest immunodeficiency include frequent bouts of bronchitis and pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections and skin infections. In adults, however, some of these may be caused by another condition that has an effect on your immune system, such as having an underactive thyroid.
Smoking harms the immune system and can make the body less successful at fighting disease4
.
Can you boost your immunity?
There’s no strong evidence to suggest there are any effective ways to naturally boost your immunity. But following a healthy lifestyle can support your body in general – and that includes your immune system:
• Stop smoking (ask your local Careway pharmacist for advice and support if you’re planning to quit)
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet with at least five portions of fruit and vegetables every day
• Stay physically active – aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Drink alcohol in moderation (no more than 14 units of alcohol a week)
Find ways
to stay active on page 42
• Get as much sleep as you need
• Make time for relaxation to reduce stress
S M A R T S T A T Fewer than
50%
of people entitled to the free NHS flu vaccine take up the offer, which puts them in danger of serious illness1
. DID YOU KNOW? Does vitamin D help?
Much has been written about vitamin D and immunity, but experts are still divided on whether or not it’s needed for a well-functioning immune system.
What they do agree on is that vitamin D is needed to keep your bones, teeth and muscles healthy. If you spend a lot of time indoors, however, you may not be getting enough vitamin D from sunlight. If so, the NHS recommends taking a vitamin D supplement – ask your pharmacist for details.
Your body is thought to produce fewer of certain types of white blood cells as you get older, which is why your immune system may become less robust with age3
.
1. Patient 3. Journal of Clinical Investigation 4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
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