Brits still believe these common myths about catching a cold. A poll of 2,000 UK adults found more than a quarter (27%) believe you can catch a cold simply by being outside when the temperature drops. While 28% think stepping out with damp hair is directly linked to falling ill, and 22% reckon sitting in a draughty room will make you unwell. Almost three in 10 (29%) are also convinced cold weather itself weakens the immune system.
The research was commissioned by Yakult which has teamed up with registered dietitian Lucy Kerrison, to help bust some of the most common winter wellness myths.
Lucy said: “Cold weather or damp hair don’t cause colds – viruses do. There are so many misconceptions about how our immune system works – often passed down through generations”
Lucy explained that as we spend more time indoors it’s easier for these viruses to spread. Therefore, supporting your immune system is vital. One of the key ways to do this she says, is through gut health.
“About 70% of the body’s immune cells are located in the gut, constantly interacting with the trillions of microbes that make up our gut microbiota,” Lucy said. “This ecosystem helps ‘train’ your immune system, teaching it to respond appropriately to pathogens while maintaining tolerance to harmless substances, such as food.”
She added that to keep the gut and immune system working together effectively, people should focus on ‘diversity’ in their diet. They should make sure they consume fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes and herbs.
“Our gut microbes feed on the fibre found in plant foods, so the more variety you eat, the broader the range of beneficial bacteria you can nurture,” she added.
“Fermented foods such as live yoghurt, kimchi, and fermented milk drinks also play a role. Look for products which note their strain names and bacterial count as these products are more likely to improve the balance of gut bacteria and therefore your immune system.”
It emerged that 42% of Brits find it harder to maintain a healthy gut during the winter months. With 41% admitting they crave richer, heavier comfort foods when the weather turns cold.
A fifth also said their busy social calendar makes it difficult to stay balanced, especially when festive events lead to overindulgence.
In an effort to stay on top of their wellbeing, more than a quarter (27%) have turned to social media for inspiration, with 39% of those looking up gut health hacks and trends.
But 63% admit that health advice online can often be confusing. Science manager for Yakult, Dr Holly Neill, added: “Social media can make wellness trends sound simple or miraculous, but not everything you see is backed by science.”
She cautioned that people should avoid blanket recommendations such as everyone avoiding gluten. “Promises of quick fixes are a red flag,” she said.
“Nutrition is nuanced, and there’s no such thing as a silver bullet. Always look for advice from sources with recognised expertise and a strong scientific background.
“Supporting gut health doesn’t need to be complicated. Simple, everyday choices can have a real, positive impact over time.”
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
