As the cold weather tightens its grip, a leading pharmacist has shared essential and cost-effective advice for managing the UK's most common seasonal health complaints. Niamh McMillan, Superintendent Pharmacist at Superdrug, emphasises that winter doesn't have to be a period of discomfort, offering practical guidance on everything from digestive issues to viral flare-ups.
Top Winter Ailments and How to Manage Them
Niamh McMillan explains that the shift towards richer foods and irregular eating patterns during the festive period often leads to a spike in indigestion. Heartburn, bloating and indigestion are incredibly common at this time of year, but she states they are manageable. Her advice includes eating smaller portions, avoiding late-night meals, and having fast-acting relief, such as Superdrug Own Brand Indigestion & Heartburn Relief Tablets, readily available.
Another significant concern is vitamin D deficiency. With shorter daylight hours in mid-winter, the population's levels of this crucial nutrient hit their lowest, impacting immunity, energy, and bone health. Niamh strongly recommends daily supplementation, suggesting products like Superdrug Vitamin D 25ug, calling it one of the simplest and most effective winter health strategies.
Combating Colds and Cold Sores
The spread of winter bugs like colds and flu is accelerated as people congregate indoors. Niamh notes an increase in related queries from October onwards. Strengthening the immune system through good sleep, nutrition, and hygiene is vital, with supplements like Superdrug High Strength Vitamin C 1000mg playing a supportive role.
Cold sores are a particular nuisance that flare up more frequently in winter. Niamh points out that a drop in temperature and a strained immune system create the perfect conditions for outbreaks, especially when individuals are run down or stressed. She advises acting quickly at the first sign of a tingle, keeping lips moisturised, and managing stress to reduce frequency.
The Crucial Cotton Bud Tip
When treating a cold sore, Niamh McMillan issues a specific and important warning. She recommends using Superdrug’s Cold Sore Cream to shorten an outbreak's duration but stresses a key application method. "Always apply with clean hands or a cotton bud to avoid spreading the virus and help the healing process," she says. This simple step, using an item that costs just pennies, can prevent the virus from spreading to other areas or to other people.
In summary, the expert's guidance underscores that proactive, simple measures can make a substantial difference to winter wellbeing. From managing diet and taking supplements to employing careful application techniques for treatments, these small steps empower people to feel more in control of their health during the colder months.
