As the colder months approach, many people brace themselves for the inevitable rise in coughs and colds. On average, colds and flu affect around 15 million people in the UK each year, with the peak season extending roughly from September through to March. Indeed, approximately 80 per cent of annual colds are contracted during this period.
Dr Shireen Ghezel, an NHS GP, has shared her advice on how to reduce the impact of these common illnesses. She emphasises the importance of acting promptly at the first sign of a bug to minimise discomfort. “It is crucial to take action the moment you suspect you have caught a cold,” Dr Ghezel explains.
While cold weather itself does not directly cause colds, the associated conditions do contribute. According to BUPA, factors such as spending more time indoors in close proximity to others, certain viruses thriving in colder conditions, and the body’s defences potentially weakening in cold temperatures all increase the likelihood of catching infections.
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In a recent TikTok video, Dr Ghezel recommended the use of supplements combining Vitamin C and zinc, which are readily available in effervescent tablet form at Boots and local pharmacies. She advises starting them immediately upon noticing symptoms like a sore throat, watery eyes, or a runny nose.
Scientific studies support the notion that taking these supplements early can reduce both the severity and duration of colds. “This can make the difference between being able to go to work or not, or being able to care for your children effectively,” Dr Ghezel added.
She also notes the affordability of these supplements and shares that she has personally taken them for several years, successfully avoiding any flu or illness severe enough to interrupt her daily functioning.
Although the advice is particularly relevant to winter, it may also be useful during other times when colds spread rapidly, such as when children return to school or during the university ‘Freshers’ flu' season.
Responses from the public on social media reflect the effectiveness of this approach. One TikTok user shared that taking Vitamin C plus zinc, alongside Vitamin D and multivitamins with iron, has led to fewer and less severe colds over five years. Another user reported feeling much better the day after taking Vitamin C and zinc at the first sign of feeling unwell.
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an essential nutrient found naturally in many fruits and vegetables. It plays a key role in supporting immune function, collagen production, and reducing fatigue, helping to keep skin, blood vessels, bones, and cartilage healthy.
Zinc is important for maintaining immune health, as well as normal vision and cognitive function. When taken together, Vitamin C and zinc provide a combined boost to the immune system.
While further research is needed to fully understand the link between cold weather and respiratory illnesses, experts agree that taking proactive steps can help protect your health throughout the winter months.
According to health guidance, measures to safeguard wellbeing during the colder season include:
[Note: The original article alludes to further measures but does not list them; therefore no additional measures are included here.]