By Serena Chisty
Nutritionist
Much like the seasons, our bodies also change throughout the year, so it is important that we maintain our health accordingly by shifting our focus to external factors and how to support our bodies.
How does spring affect our health?
When the seasons shift from winter to spring, you would expect our immune systems to need less support. But as we know in the UK, the weather is quite unpredictable. During spring we are met with constant fluctuations in temperature, increased pollen in the air, and harsh winds making it feel colder than it is, resulting in our bodies catching colds, fevers, and allergies. So, it's crucial that we take care of our immune system by supporting it with a range of antioxidants.
Below are some nutrients that may help support you throughout the season change.
1. Vitamin D
By now, everyone is probably aware of the importance of vitamin D from supporting our immune function, to healthy bones, teeth, and muscles.1
As it gets warmer, we tend to spend more time outdoors. But this doesn't always mean we're getting more vitamin D. It is said that we only gain sufficient levels during the summer months, making it important to supplement during spring to make sure our levels do not become too low.
Read more about vitamin D and immune support here >
2. Selenium
Selenium is an essential mineral that our body cannot make ourselves, meaning we have to obtain this through diet and supplements. Selenium plays an important role in supporting our immune system by helping to create selenoproteins, some of which are potent antioxidants that help to combat free radicals.2
3. Zinc
Zinc, another essential mineral, is linked with optimal immune function. Research has shown low levels of zinc have been linked to poor immune function. Zinc is important for developing and maintaining immune cells, playing a central role in the immune system.3
Read more about selenium and zinc here >
4. Pycnogenol
Pycnogenol is a natural plant extract from french maritime pine bark. An astonishing supplement, with research supporting its many uses. Pycnogenol is also thought to be a powerful antioxidant that helps to provide oxidative protection whilst also contributing to normal blood circulation.4
To read more about pycnogenol's functions see here >
For more information about our products and how you can support your immune health this spring visit pharmanord.co.uk/all-products
References
1. Botelho J, Machado V, Proença L, Delgado AS, Mendes JJ. Vitamin D deficiency and Oral Health: A Comprehensive Review. Nutrients. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7285165/. Published May 19, 2020. Accessed February 27, 2023.
2. Gill h, walker g. Selenium, immune function, and resistance to viral infections. Nutrition & dietetics. 2008;65. Doi:10.1111/j.1747-0080.2008.00260.x
3. Prasad as. Zinc in human health: effect of zinc on immune cells. Molecular medicine. 2008;14(5-6):353-357. Doi:10.2119/2008-00033.prasad
4. Nattagh‐Eshtivani E, Gheflati A, Barghchi H, et al. The role of Pycnogenol in the control of inflammation and oxidative stress in chronic diseases: Molecular aspects. Phytotherapy Research. 2022;36(6):2352-2374. Doi:10.1002/ptr.7454
