How can we help strengthen and support a healthy immune system? One of the easiest ways of doing so is by increasing the amount of Vitamin C in our diet.

A wide range of fresh fruits and vegetables contain Vitamin C, including citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, mango, papaya, cranberries, pineapple, and vegetables like broccoli, green and red peppers, beans, tomatoes and cabbage.

As well as helping support our immune system, Vitamin C is used for many other essential functions in our body;

1. Vitamin C is known for its collagen-boosting properties, which is essential for growth and repair of tissues in all parts of our body. Collagen in an important protein used to build skin, cartilage, tendons, ligaments and blood vessels.
2. It is used to repair and maintain healthy bones and teeth.
3. Vitamin C is an anti-oxidant that blocks damage caused by free radicals, which can cause damage to DNA and contribute to the ageing process.
4. It also helps reduce the level of cholesterol in blood, by boosting the conversion of cholesterol to bile salts, which can easily be eliminated from the body.

Unfortunately Vitamin C can’t prevent you from getting colds, but it can reduce their severity!

So make sure you include plenty of Vitamin C rich foods and cold-pressed juices into your daily diet, and reap the health benefits this winter