As scientists predict Britain could face its coldest and most extreme winter in the UK for 30 years and we prepare for the imminent winter flu to sweep the office, we’ve enlisted the advice of the gurus behind the FX Mayr cure to share some practical immune-boosting hacks.
Try as you might to resist it but Autumn is well and truly upon us and whilst the chillier weather provides us with the perfect opportunity to swaddle ourselves in our cosy knits, winter illnesses aren’t as welcome.
The celebrity-loved programme apparently allows your cells to become activated and your intestines, in which between 70 and 80 percent of all of the body’s immune reactions occur, to recover and strengthen. Your metabolism and energy supply will be optimised as a result, they promise.
The gut is eight metres packed full of immune defences. The intestines are where viruses and bacteria are identified, antibodies formed, pathogens eliminated and then transported out of the body. So there is good reason to pay close attention to our gut in preparation for the colder months. Here are 5 simple immune-boosting hacks that will see you through winter…
There are several ways of protecting yourself from winter colds and flu and strengthening your immune system. For instance, by undergoing a cleansing and regenerating FX Mayr cure. This will bring your digestion back into balance, ensure the health of your gut flora and, at the same time, prevent disease.
As Dr Karin Hamböck, Physician at the Original FX Mayr, explains: “Between 70 – 80% of all of the body’s immune responses take place in the gut, which – if you consider the small and large intestine together – is approx. eight meter in length. This is where viruses and bacteria, etc. are identified, antibodies formed, pathogens eliminated and then transported out of the body. So a good reason to pay close attention to our gut. ”
Feast on winter veggies
In winter in particular, we need vitamins and secondary plant substances if our immune system is to function effectively. And the best way to obtain these is by consuming hearty, fresh winter vegetables. It’s no coincidence that the plants that are harvested in the winter are packed with substances that strengthen the immune system. Right at the top of the list are the most diverse varieties of cabbage and herbs. Savoy cabbage, broccoli, Brussels sprouts are particularly rich in vitamin C, among other good things. But potatoes, lamb’s lettuce and spinach contain very valuable nutrients, too.
As Andreas Wolff, Chef de Cuisine at the Original FX Mayr, adds: ”Visit a farmers’ market in your area and revel in the abundance and diversity of freshly harvested winter veggies. Dive right in and do give something new a try. ”
Check your zinc and Vitamin D levels
Zinc is one of the trace elements that the body cannot produce itself; it has to be obtained via the diet. If the body lacks the levels of zinc that it needs, this exerts a negative impact on the immune system. Among other things, this increases susceptibility to infections like the common cold, cough, sore throat, etc. Skin, nail and hair disorders are also often attributable to zinc deficiency. The human body produces vitamin D on its own, but only when regularly exposed to sunlight. Especially in winter, the natural production of D3 is significantly reduced and it’s scientifically-proven that a stable vitamin D3 household can reduce influenza infections and reduce susceptibility.
Dr Karin Hamböck, Physician at the Original FX Mayr, said: “To prevent zinc deficiency, it is a good idea to assess zinc levels by carrying out a blood test. If your zinc level is low, take 30mg of zinc every night before going to sleep and not right after meals. ”
Drink warming teas
Teas are a real boost on cold autumn and winter days. They warm the body from the inside and provide it with extra hydration. In the winter, when the air is dry both indoors and outdoors, you need to remain adequately hydrated (ideally by consuming water or unsweetened teas) in order to be able to keep the mucous membranes supple and eliminate pathogens. So keep drinking those cups of tea through the day and take time to enjoy the variety that’s on offer.
As Dr Karin Hamböck, Physician at the Original FX Mayr, says: “To strengthen the body’s immune defence, prefer teas based on caraway, cardamon, fennel or cinnamon over green tea or peppermint. ”
Outdoor exercise
Wrap up warm and go outside for a winter walk, a short hike or a leisurely run. When you are outdoors, the body produces vitamin D, a nutrient that is incredibly important for immune defences. A complete win-win.
A tip from Nikolai, exercise therapist at the original FX Mayr: “Regular exercise, 3 times a week, boosts the immune system and strengthens the muscles and the cardiovascular system. ”