If like me, your immune system has already taken a hit this year, consider following some of the below tips for winter so you can stay healthy during the colder season.

1) Get your vitamin D Levels tested. Vitamin D is one of the most important vitamins for keeping your immune system functioning at its best. A simple blood test via your GP can detect low levels or even a vitamin D deficiency. A high number of the UK population are deficient, so it’s vital we optimise our vitamin D levels, especially during winter months!

2) Improve your gut health. Did you know that approximately 80% of our immune system is located in the gut? Supplementing with probiotics can help you digest nutrients and keep your gut healthy!

3) Cut down on sugar. 3) Research shows that high consumption of sugar can suppress the healthy functioning of white blood cells that keeps bad bacteria at bay. Reduce sugar intake to keep your immune system functioning at its best.

4) Increase your intake vitamin-C rich foods. It’s a well-known fact that vitamin C supports healthy functioning of the immune system. However, did you know that it is also depleted when we are stressed? This key antioxidant can be found in sources such as peppers, broccoli and parsley!

5) Get some sleep! Lack of sleep quickly decreases your immune function, putting you at greater risk for illnesses such as colds and flu. To improve sleep quality, avoid caffeine in the afternoon and aim for 7-9 hours of sleep a night.