Dr Raj Arora, a GP who regularly appears on ITV's This Morning and Sky News, has urged people in the UK to take five actions now for winter health, including taking a daily vitamin D pill that costs around 2p per tablet.
Five winter health steps recommended
Dr Arora said that during the winter and darker months, the body can come under more stress from the cold and other conditions, but people can take precautions. Her first recommendation is to get the flu vaccine where eligible.
“Flu isn’t just a bad cold. It can make you seriously unwell. Check whether you’re eligible for a free NHS flu vaccine, particularly if you’re pregnant, older or have certain long term health conditions,” she said.
People are eligible for a free NHS flu vaccine if they are pregnant, aged 65 or over, in certain clinical risk groups, or a carer. To check eligibility, the UKHSA website can be visited.
Vitamin D supplement advice
Dr Arora noted that people are exposed to far less sunlight in the UK during autumn and winter. She said: “From October to March, we don’t make enough vitamin D from sunlight in the UK. The NHS advises everyone to consider taking 10 micrograms (400 IU) of vitamin D daily during autumn and winter.”
Vitamin D pills are available from online retailers like Amazon for around 2p a pill. The NHS advises everyone to consider taking a daily vitamin D supplement of 10 micrograms (mcg)—also written as 400 IU—during the autumn and winter months from October to March.
Outdoor time, skincare, and medication checks
Dr Arora also advised making a point of going outside: “Shorter, darker days can mean we naturally spend more time indoors. Regular movement and getting outside during daylight hours can support your physical health, sleep and wellbeing.”
She added that skincare can suffer in cold weather: “Cold weather outside plus central heating inside can mean dry, irritated skin. Think gentle cleansing, regular moisturiser and don’t ditch the SPF just because summer is over.”
Finally, she advised people to ensure they are stocked up for potential illnesses and that their medication is usable. “Check expiry dates, make sure you have basics like a thermometer and paracetamol at home, and don’t leave repeat prescriptions until you’ve completely run out,” she said.
