Keep Your Vita-Levels Topped Up! The Vitamins You Need This Winter

There is more to looking after your body during the winter months than the obvious wrapping up warm and keeping your skin and lips moisturised.

Vitamins play a very important role in strengthening the immune system, boosting energy levels, improving your complexion and restoring vitality.

You should consider keeping tabs on what vitamins your body is being supplied with this winter and what kind of vitamins you should consider topping up on!

Vitamin C

What Does It Do?Vitamin C doesn't prevent colds and flu can reduce the length and the severity of cold and flu symptoms. Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant. It is vital for the production of collagen, used to build body tissue and bones.

Where Can I Get It? Keep your vitamin C topped up with a wide range of fresh fruit and vegetables. Citrus fruits, kiwi fruit, strawberries and cranberries are an excellent source of vitamin C. Green vegetables and potatoes also contain high levels.

Iron

What Does It Do? Iron forms red blood cells which carry oxygen around the body. A good intake of iron is necessary for energy, intellectual performance and vitality. A lack of iron leads to anaemia - where the body is unable to transport oxygen around the body causing lethargy and listlessness.

Where Can I Get It? Red meat is a great source of iron. Other sources include cereal products, bread, flour, eggs, beans, lentils and dried fruit.

Vitamin A

What Does It Do? Vitamin A is very important for repairing tissues needed for the growth and development of our bodies. It is also essential for strengthening the immune system and maintaining good eyesight.

Where Can I Get It? Milk, egg yolks, liver, fatty fish, carrots, tomatoes, green leafy vegetables, mango and apricots. 

Make sure your diet is full of fresh fruit and veg to get your daily dose of vitamins.

Vitamin E

What does it do? Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant protecting cell membranes from damage. It is also thought to protect against some cancers and heart disease.

Where Can I Get It? Nuts and oil are an excellent source of vitamin E. Green leafy vegetables and cereals are also rich in vitamin E.

Selenium

What Does It Do? Selenium is an essential mineral that makes up part of the enzymes that defend the body against damage.

Where Can I Get It? Cereals, meat, fish and Brazil nuts.