The number of cases of flu in adults is expected to rise as schools and nurseries close for Christmas - so people are urged to get Vitamin C into their diets.
The nutrient is vital to the body's healing process as it helps protect the cells. This is important, doctors say, because there are new fears of a "quad-demic", with flu, RSV, COVID-19 and norovirus all reaching record levels for this time in the year.
The NHS has offered flu jabs at football clubs, supermarkets and Christmas markets this month but plenty of effort can be taken at home to ensure the body is ready to fight off the colds and flus this festive season.
Contrary to popular belief, citrus isn't the only or even the best source of Vitamin C. Bell peppers, for instance, boasts a higher concentration of Vitamin C and can be bought at most supermarkets. Bell peppers contain 80.4mg of Citamin C per 100g, outstripping lemons, which have just 53mg for the same weight.
The Mirror here publishes a full list of foods which contain enough Vitamin C which, blended with a diet also containing the likes of Vitamin D, Zinc, and Potassium, can bolster immunity this Christmas.
Key sources of Vitamin C
Bell peppers - Bell peppers contain various vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C. It is one of the richest dietary sources of this essential nutrient, though often overlooked. Broccoli - There's a whopping 89.2mg in a 100g broccoli. This vegetable, which originates from Italy, can of course be eaten raw or cooked. Mix in your stir fry this winter and you and the family will reap the rewards. Lemons - The classics shouldn't be sniffed at either. There's 53mg of Vitamin C in one 100g lemon, so blend the fruit into your diet - either in sweet or savoury dishes - this winter to stave off the unpleasant bugs. Grapefruits - With 31.2mg in one 100g grapefruit, you can also rely on the fleshy, thick skinned treat to help keep you healthy. It is often consumed as grapefruit juice, though try baking cakes with it. Brussels sprouts: Well, it wouldn't be Christmas without this vegetable, part of the cabbage family. So, it's timely that this green gem will also provide Vitamin C - 100g of sprouts will actually offer 85mg of the nutrient, so pop a few more on your plate this Christmas.As the NHS contends with a "quad-demic", it is urging eligible people to get a flu jab this month. Mike Nesbitt has also set out practical ways we can all support the health service. These range from using services appropriately, caring for ourselves and others, and co-operating with hospital discharge processes.
Mr Nesbitt said: “Viruses including flu, RSV, Covid-19 and norovirus all tend to circulate to a greater degree during winter months, adding to already high levels of demand for care. The reality is that the coming weeks are likely to be extremely challenging. I therefore appeal to everyone to play their part in supporting health and care staff and services.”
He added: “I want to really stress that if you believe you need emergency hospital care, then you should not hesitate to seek it. Emergency Departments will assess those who attend and prioritise treating the sickest quickest.
“However, if your case is not an emergency, then care and treatment is available from other parts of the Health and Social Care system. This includes community pharmacies, GPs, GP out of hours and minor injury units.
“Self care is also vitally important, not least in ensuring that conditions do not deteriorate to the point where hospital attendance is required. Even something as straightforward as not leaving it too late to get your repeat prescriptions can help make a difference.
“Ensuring timely discharge from hospital for those who are well enough to leave is absolutely vital. This frees up beds for those waiting in Emergency Departments and ambulances who need urgent treatment and care. Staying in hospital when you no longer need to be there is certainly not good for your health.
“Vaccination provides you with vital protection against flu, Covid-19 and RSV. It also helps reduce pressure on our health services and hard pressed staff. If you are eligible for these vaccines and have not yet received them, my advice is please do not delay any further.”
English (United States) ·