The winter season can be unforgiving, affecting not only your physical health but also your complexion, hair, and mental well-being. Post-holiday lethargy and reduced outdoor activity can contribute to this seasonal toll.
Now, more than ever, it is essential to maintain a healthy diet, ensure adequate sleep, and provide your body with essential nutrients. Including specific supplements and nourishing foods on your menu will enhance your winter wellness. Explore our guide to discover the most effective winter vitamins and supplements that will take care of all your health needs this season.
Related: These Winter Fruits Are Loaded With Heath Benefits
Vitamin D is essential in the winter season, when there is less direct sunlight and more indoor activity. Although your skin normally creates vitamin D in reaction to UVB light, winter clothing, especially when doing outdoor activities such as dog walking or skiing, often hinders this process.
Vitamin D strengthens the physical barrier to viruses and promotes the generation of antimicrobial peptides. This is why it helps our immune systems stay balanced during the cold and flu seasons. It also helps promote a pleasant mood, which benefits the many people who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) owing to shorter daylight hours and longer dark evenings.
Related: This Is What It's Like to Have Seasonal Affective Disorder
Pycnogenol is a compound of natural chemicals that comes from the bark of a European pine tree. Experts say that its antioxidant effects can be particularly helpful in the winter. Substantial research supports pycnogenol's potential health benefits in the colder months. A 2021 study found that taking this supplement regularly during the dry months improved skin elasticity and firmness. Further research shows that its natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help to shorten the duration of a cold and relieve nasal congestion and runny nose.
Omega-3 fatty acids have been associated with a variety of health benefits, including improved brain and heart function, reduced inflammation, and protection against a variety of chronic diseases. Furthermore, this supplement is useful in addressing the dry, flaky skin that is common during the winter.
Omega-3 fatty acids contribute to the general health of the skin by controlling skin oil production, improving balanced hydration, minimizing breakouts, and lowering indications of aging. They also help soften rough, dry skin and soothe inflammation and dermatitis.
Zinc is essential for the development and function of innate immunity, influencing the performance of natural killer cells and helping to establish adaptive immunity. Innate immunity protects against external threats, whereas adaptive immunity helps in the fight against diseases that invade the body. The interaction of these two immune responses is vital for general health.
Research shows that vitamin C plays a crucial role in supporting cellular functions in both the innate and adaptive immune systems. When combined with zinc, this potent combination has the potential to enhance the functioning of both branches of your immune system.
Related: How to Beat and Prevent the Winter Blues
Improving the quality of your sleep not only makes it easier to get out of bed on cold winter mornings but also helps to improve your immune system. Experts recommend a mix of valerian root to induce sleep, passion flower to relax, and hops to provide a calm and restorative night's sleep for a more profound sleep experience.
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