Dr Hilary Jones urges Brits to ditch alcohol this winter to fend off injuries and illnesses

With the “vomiting bug” norovirus sweeping through the UK paired with what professionals have dubbed a “tripledemic” of Covid, RSV and the flu cases ramping up, the odds are already stacked against Brits at the start of the season. However, one TV doc is hoping to even the score with some unexpected tips that could drastically shift your winter health outlook.

Many of the most common winter ailments don’t necessarily hit the body incredibly hard, but the rate at which they’re spread is the main concern while contracting multiple strains or different viruses at the same time has the potential to leave you bed-bound or worse. As a result, Dr Hilary’s top tip is to give your immune system the best chance possible to fight off these bugs by not hindering it before the battle begins.

The ITV doctor explained: “It’s no secret that excessive alcohol can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of falls and accidents, which become more concerning as we get older. Drinking in moderation can help maintain balance and coordination, reducing the likelihood of mishaps. Additionally, staying mindful of alcohol consumption can support overall health and well-being, permitting you to enjoy social gatherings without the risk of hurting yourself.

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Next, Dr Hilary advised keeping warm during the coldest nights even if that means heating just a single room in the house or staying indoors during cold snaps. He added: “Stocking up on hot drinks and soups in a thermos, while eating regularly, can create inner body heat and sustain energy levels. Avoid going out if it’s icy or snowy to prevent falls and fractures; however, if you must venture outside, wrap a warm scarf around your nose and mouth.”

Vaccinations can also go far in giving your body the best chance to overcome any illness, the expert particulalry recommended RSV, flu and Covid vaccines this time of year and suggested self-testing if you are concerned. He explained: “It’s a habit many of us became familiar with during the pandemic and one we should keep up during the colder months."

One final cost-free tip the doctor offered was ensuring you get enough quality sleep, which can be tough for some as the weather changes and takes the sunshine hours with it. To help with this, Dr Hilary recommended: “Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine can enhance sleep quality - giving your body a better chance to withstand winter’s challenges. If you're experiencing sleep disturbances, consider testing for thyroid issues or vitamin deficiencies with Newfoundland’s at-home kits.”