Which Vitamins Should I Take This Winter?

With the days drawing in and the cold weather fast approaching, we need to stock up on vitamins to give ourselves best possible chance to fight those winter bugs!

SO WHICH VITAMINS SHOULD WE BE TAKING IN WINTER?

VITAMIN A

Not as well-known as Vitamin C, Vitamin A is essential for a healthy life during the colder months. Vitamin A can be found in substances such as cod liver oil and is effective in helping the production of white blood cells in the body, helping to avoid ear infections, chest infections and the common cold. If you do not take it as a stand-alone vitamin, make sure you take multivitamins that contain the recommended dosage of Vitamin A.

VITAMIN C

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is necessary for the growth, development and repair of all body tissues. It's involved in many body functions, including formation of collagen, absorption of iron, the proper functioning of the immune system, wound healing, and the maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth.

VITAMIN D

We all need vitamin D to help us absorb calcium and phosphate from our diet. These minerals are important for healthy bones, teeth and muscles. With the cold winter months and the reduced sunlight hours, a lot of us can struggle to get the required levels of vitamin D we need through a typical day. It is recommended that everyone over the age of one year (including pregnant and breastfeeding women) take a daily supplement containing 10 micrograms (μg) of vitamin D a day.

OMEGA FISH OILS

Most people don’t get enough Omega 3’s in their diet and this especially applies to those eating processed foods regularly. Omega fish oils can help boost your mood, improve your mental focus, ward off winter colds and strengthen the structure of our skin. During winter it is sensible to top up our intake of Omega 3 to make sure our skin stays healthy and supported from the harsh cold conditions that can dry skin out quickly. It has been help to decrease your risk of heart disease by decreasing your blood fat, help prevent Rheumatoid Arthritis, Depression, Alzheimer, Dementia and Asthma.

IRON

Low levels of in iron can really make you feel tired and weary in the winter. This is particularly true for women who have heavy periods or pregnant. Iron supplements can increase your energy levels and increase oxygen delivery to the lungs, spleen, bone marrow, muscles and cells.

ZINC

Zinc is a nutrient that is found throughout your body, it helps your immune system and metabolism function. Zinc is also important in wound healing and improving your sense of taste and smell. Zinc helps the immune system fight off invading bacteria and viruses. The body also needs zinc to make proteins and DNA, the genetic material in all cells.