How To Protect You Immune System In Autumn | Health & Wellbeing

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As the cold and flu season kicks in, your immune system goes into overdrive, defending you from harmful pathogens. During this time, looking after your immunity with the right supplements, foods and health practices is vital. Read on to learn how to protect your immune system in autumn, including our top immune-boosting product recommendations.

How to defend your immune system in autumn

Looking after your immune system in autumn is critical to stay healthy and energised. But how do you do it? Keep reading to discover the best practices and products for a thriving immune system as the seasons change.

Take a vitamin D supplement

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Autumn is often accompanied by rain, cloudy days, and a lack of sunlight. Reduced daylight hours and sunshine not only lower your mood but also impact your immune system.

Sunlight helps your body produce vitamin D, which creates peptides. These peptides have antiviral properties that enhance immunity by defending your body against invasive foreign bodies.

You can’t get enough vitamin D through food alone. Therefore, the NHS advises a vitamin D supplement to support your body in autumn and winter.

Best vitamin D supplements

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D3000 Vitamin D Oral Spray - An oral spray is a fantastic way to deliver fast absorption directly into the bloodstream, supporting a healthy immune system.
Vitamin D3 1000iu - This vitamin D dosage is ideal when the sun is still making an appearance and you’re regularly outdoors. Take one tablet daily to boost your immunity and maintain your health.
Vitamin D3 4000iu - You may need a stronger vitamin D dose during the depth of autumn and winter when the nights are long. One daily vitamin D supplement with food is all it takes to nurture your immune system during the low sunlight months.

Get plenty of sleep

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A lack of natural light over autumn and winter increases the production of melatonin - the sleep hormone. Therefore, it’s normal to require more sleep during the cold months. However, with the invention of electricity, there’s access to indoor lighting 24/7 and screens. Both suppress melatonin and may prevent you from getting high-quality sleep.

You need sleep for a thriving immune system, which is particularly important when the seasons change. So, make sure you avoid late-night TV shows and get plenty of rest over autumn.

Best ways to get more sleep

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Night Time Herbal Tea - Sip on a dreamy blend of organic oat flower, lavender and lime flowers to help your body unwind and slip into a peaceful slumber.
Lavender 100% Pure Oil - Lavender oil has a soothing, floral scent that decreases stress and promotes relaxation. Sprinkle a few drops over your pillow or put in a diffuser for a calm sleep
Magnesium Sleep Lotion - Magnesium helps regulate your sleep hormones for high-quality sleep. BetterYou Magnesium Sleep Lotion is absorbed through the skin and into your bloodstream for a balanced night’s rest.
Valerian Supplement - Valerian root is a herb that can reduce mild anxiety and promote better sleep. Take one to two capsules before bedtime for a soothing sleep over autumn.

Eat cosy autumn foods

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Your body needs extra nourishment over autumn and winter to keep you warm. Eat comforting seasonal foods for vitamins, minerals, and healthy fatty acids. The best cosy autumn foods include:

Make sure you drink enough water

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Water helps transport oxygen to your immune cells for correct functioning and protection against harmful bacteria. You need between 2.5 and 3.5 litres of water per day, but drinking cool water over autumn can be unappealing.

If you find it hard to get enough water as the weather turns chilly, swap out cold tap water for a warming alternative. Herbal teas are an excellent replacement and contain bonus health benefits that help the immune system function.

Best herbal teas for the immune system

Turmeric Active - An invigorating turmeric tea not only increases your water intake but also contains potent anti-inflammatory properties. This reduces the swelling in cells for better oxygen and nutrient transportation.
Three Ginger Herbal Tea - Ginger is a fiery and warming spice that makes a delicious cup of tea. Similarly to turmeric, it lowers inflammation throughout the body while warming you from the inside out. You can also add a dash of immune-boosting Manuka Honey for sweetness.
Original Chai - Chia tea is an autumnal blend of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger to keep you cosy and hydrated. Brew a soothing cup to replenish your fluids and bolster your immune system.
Organic Apple, Rosehip & Cinnamon - Enjoy autumn in a cup with this tea’s seasonal medley of apple, rosehip, and cinnamon. It’s rich in antioxidants, reduces swelling, and defends against colds and illnesses.

Minimise your stress levels

A lack of sunlight and pressure from the holiday season can increase stress, releasing cortisol. The stress hormone causes inflammation and reduces the effectiveness of your immune system.

Best products for reducing stress

Epsom Bath Salts - There’s nothing more relaxing than a warm bubble bath, especially when you add Epsom salts. These naturally occurring salts help de-knot tight muscles and activate the rest and digest response, which prompts relaxation.
Korean Ginseng - The herb ginseng has been used for centuries to reduce symptoms of mild stress and anxiety. Take a ginseng supplement daily to decrease inflammation and balance cortisol in your body.
Relax Herbal Tea - Sip on a serene infusion of organic chamomile, fennel, and marshmallow root to calm an overactive nervous system. Have a cup to increase your water intake or before bed for a peaceful body and mind.
Reishi Tea - Reishi is a mushroom that promotes focus and concentration. It can also lower mild anxiety symptoms, reduce stress, and improve sleep.
Chaga Mushroom Extract - Chaga mushroom is a brown, bark-like mushroom that grows on tree trunks. Taking it as a supplement is excellent for lowering stress and bolstering the immune system in autumn.

Nourish your immune system this autumn with Grape Tree

Caring for your immune system is simple when you harness the power of supplements, nourishing foods and nurturing practices. Look after your body and feel your best self this autumn with Grape Tree.

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