Health Notes: Stocking up supplements for Autumn/Winter
I’m writing this for you dear BB readers, of course, but also because I truly wanted pharmacist Shabir Daya’s expert advice on the key supplements to help me and my family stay healthy this winter… And here it is, so we can all get our supplementary benefits.
DoSe by VH Mega Probio: About 70% of the body’s immune system lives in the gut. Probiotics work in a variety of ways to reduce inflammation, strengthen the gut lining so bacteria and viruses do not enter the bloodstream, and activate specialised white blood cells and antibodies. And, Shabir adds, you get all the other benefits of probiotics such as healthy digestion, manufacture of energising B vitamins etc. (I take this every day after years of digestive problems following a stint in India. It really works.)
BetterYou Vitamin D3: Scientists believe that vitamin D helps maintain a strong immune system. If you’re deficient in vitamin D or have less than optimal levels the specialised T-cells required to attack pathogens are dormant or inactive. Shabir usually aims for between 2000iu and 3000iu per day. Also, vitamin D provides multiple other benefits including bone building, muscle function and mood regulation.
Bare Biology Life & Soul Pure Omega-3 Fish Oil: We can’t manufacture these essential fatty acids in our bodies, so we need to get them from our diet. But even if we eat the recommended two or three portions of oily fish every week, this is simply not enough, says Shabir, bearing in mind the various functions of these important fats. When it comes to immunity, omega-3s help support the immune system by reducing inflammation in the body and by helping the function of cell communication. Shabir favours this brand (my choice too) because it contains high strengths of omega-3s obtained from small fish like sardines and anchovies.
And if you prefer fewer pills, Shabir suggests this formula:
DoSe Daily Immunity: this provides probiotics, vitamin D, zinc, vitamin C and herbal extracts that all work in synergy to support and strengthen the immune system. You can take this supplement from autumn through to spring. It’s especially helpful for people who are prone to recurrent infections.
If you feel like reading more, Shabir’s editorial on a Winter SOS Survival Guide with dietary advice is really worth a read.
PS And just in case you wonder, I do buy these for myself and my family. They’re not press freebies.
