If there is one thing, South Africans love to talk about, it’s the weather! Every freezing spell is guaranteed to ruffle up neighbourhood banter, but a cold snap is more than just a conversation starter.
Chilly, dry conditions can increase the risk of respiratory diseases such as colds and flu. The good news is that you can boost your immune system, stay healthy, and enjoy winter with a few simple tips:
- Supercharge Your Diet
Winter is the ideal time to load up on foods rich in Vitamin C. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and while it can’t prevent colds, it can reduce their length and severity.1a Opt for seasonal favourites like citrus fruits, sweet potatoes, and dark leafy greens. And remember vitamin D, which you can supplement in the darker months.
- Get the Flu Jab
The best way to avoid getting the flu is to get vaccinated. Since 2010, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended annual flu vaccination for all people aged 6 months and older.1b
- Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
While hot cocoa and mulled wine are popular winter beverages, remember to stay hydrated with good old H2O. Adequate hydration helps maintain mucous membrane function in your respiratory system, which is a natural barrier against viruses.2 Plus, it keeps your body’s internal systems running smoothly.
Pro Tip: If you find plain water unappealing in chilly weather, try warm herbal teas or infuse your water with a splash of citrus for a refreshing twist.
- Get Your Zzz’s
During the winter, the allure of cosying up in bed with a good book or a Netflix binge until all hours can be strong but remember to get to bed on time. A good night’s sleep is vital to your overall health. Sleep is when your body repairs and regenerates,3 making it critical for maintaining a strong immune system.
Sleep Hack: Create a relaxing bedtime routine to help you unwind. Try a warm bath, soothing herbal tea, or gentle stretches to ease into a restful slumber.
- Practice Good Hygiene
Maintaining excellent hygiene is critical to preventing the transmission of infections. Handwashing with soap and warm water on a regular basis is your first line of defence.4 Carry hand sanitiser with you in case a sink is not nearby. Remember to cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough, preferably with a tissue or your elbow, to prevent germs from spreading.
Expert Tip: Washing your hands properly can reduce your risk of infection by up to 30%. Make it a habit and encourage your family to do the same.
- Beat the Ache with Fast & Targeted7 & 8 Pain Relief From Compral®
Don’t let pain hold you back this, winter! Turn to Compral® for fast and targeted7 & 8 pain relief. Available in both tablet and powder form, Compral® powder is ready to work in just 10 seconds.5
Compral® tablets are great for fast and targeted7 & 8 relief from pain, fever, and inflammation. Or choose Compral® powders designed to tackle muscle and joint pain, body aches, period discomfort, toothache, and pesky headaches, giving you a comprehensive solution for your specific pain needs.6
Embrace the Winter Warrior within with the Adcock Ingram Range, featuring Panado®, Cepacol®, Compral®, and ViralGuard™, available from Pick n Pay, Checkers including Hypers, Shoprite, Clicks, Dis-Chem, and Independent Pharmacies. For more information about Adcock Ingram Winter Warriors, visit https://adcockwinterwarriors.co.za/. For more information about Compral®, www.compralpainrelief.co.za and join the conversation on Facebook.
For full prescribing information refer to the Professional Information approved by SAHPRA. Adcock Ingram Limited. Co. Reg. No.: 1949/034385/06. Private Bag X69, Bryanston, 2021, South Africa. Customer Care: 0860 ADCOCK / 232625. www.adcock.com. 2023121310329410. December 2023. Visit https://adcockwinterwarriors.co.za/references/ for references.
