As the winter chill settles in, it's not just the holiday season that arrives. It's the sniffles, colds, and the undeniable desire to hibernate. And while blankets and hot chocolate might be your go-to remedy, don't overlook the power of a well-curated arsenal of multivitamins to fuel your immune system.
Wellness experts at Vegetology have revealed the five supplements you should be taking to have you not just surviving but thriving during the frosty months ahead.
1. Magnesium (for battling tiredness)
Battling fatigue becomes especially problematic during the extended, wintry nights of the season. Coffee and energy drinks only mask tiredness, and it's crucial to nourish your body with the right nutrients for sustained energy. This becomes particularly vital during the Christmas period, marked by late-night celebrations.
Enter magnesium supplements, a vital component for the human body, are pivotal in ATP production - aka the primary energy source within our cells. A magnesium deficiency can exacerbate feelings of fatigue, making it an essential ally in maintaining vitality. Beyond its energy-boosting properties, magnesium also works as an antioxidant, as a guardian for your cells and bolstering your body's defences.
2. Vitamin B (for increased energy)
Vitamin B12 is a key player in elevating energy levels and rejuvenating overall wellness. This essential vitamin is tied to metabolism, playing a vital role in converting food into energy. The energy that will prove especially valuable during our festive Christmas feasts.
Vitamin B12 also supports the health of our nervous and digestive systems. As well as the well-being of our blood cells. A shortage of vitamin B12 can manifest in symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, breathlessness, and headaches. Amidst the post-Christmas party celebrations, vitamin B12 is a potential saviour, renowned for its ability to counteract hangover symptoms.
3. Vitamin C (for immunity)
After all the merry nights out, Christmas markets and gatherings galore, our immune systems might feel like they're gearing up for a battle. Facing the freezing temperatures and mingling in crowds of hundreds of people might make our insides feel like they are in a game of winter cold roulette.
Vitamin C can act as your trusty sidekick, armed with superhero immune-boosting powers. This trusty little vitamin not only fights off the sniffles but doubles as an antioxidant and inflammation-fighting champ. Picture it as the defender of your immune system, tirelessly producing antibodies that tackle infections like a boss.
4. Omega 3 (for boosting mood)
Blame it on the dark commutes and the daylight-deprived days; you may be feeling blue. But fear not, omega 3 is the mood-lifting vitamin you need, as it gives depression and anxiety a swift kick out the door. The vitamin tackles focus issues, boosts cognitive function and even encourages brain cell regeneration.
Sure, seafood, nuts, and seeds are packed full of omega-3, but winter cravings might have you reaching for comfort foods instead. Sadly, our bodies aren't master chefs that can whip up omega 3, so let's make a pact to keep the mood-boosting benefits flowing all year round.
5. Vitamin D (for enhancing wellness)
During the dark evenings and early nights, we get less sun, putting us at risk of a D-ficiency (pardon the pun) crisis. So, cue the quest for the sunshine vitamin (aka Vitamin D) to save the day, or rather our wellbeing and energy levels.
Vitamin D is essential in maintaining normal immune system function and calcium levels, keeping our bones and teeth in top form. Who knew a vitamin could be such a lifesaver?
Can vitamins 'cure' winter blues?
The fact is vitamins can't replace the lifestyle factors that can contribute to the winter blues. However, incorporating a balanced diet with sufficient vitamins and minerals may contribute to maintaining a positive mindset and overall mental health during the darker, colder season.
Vegetology's founder, Chris Smith adds: "It is common for people to feel like winter is getting the better of them and to feel lower in energy and mood. Although no vitamin is a cure for this, it has been shown that a lack in certain vitamins can cause this to worsen. So, it is incredibly important to ensure we look after our bodies, especially at this time of year."
So, as you layer up to face the frosty winds, ensure your internal defence squad is as equally prepared.
About the experts
Vegetology are a team of scientists who produce vegetarian and vegan supplements that are ethical and sustainable. Rooted in 25 years of nutrition and vitamin experience, Vegetology leverages quality, pure ingredients, and pioneer plant-based production techniques. With a goal to support the human body with the key nutrients it needs for survival in the most environmentally conscious way, they are keen on making all their products natural and eco-friendly.
Gemma Lavers is a Health & Fitness writer for What's The Best. From understanding nutrition to practising yoga and Pilates to delving into the psychology of motivation – she enjoys demystifying the latest fitness trends and staying on top of the dynamic health landscape, whether the best gym leggings, fitness trackers or the benefits of yoga.
When Gemma’s not writing, she can be found attending Pilates, yoga and Zumba classes. She’s also a bit of a home workout aficionado, constantly trying out new ways to keep her moving at home. Between writing, exercising and shopping, there’s nothing she loves more than hopping on a plane and exploring new cultures.
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