It’s easy to pick up germs and bugs at this time of year, especially in close proximity on the tubes and trains. Here are our top tips for staying sniffle free this winter…

Use your hand sanitiser
Lots of us keep them in our bags and pockets, but how often do you use it? Remember to use it when you get off the bus or train and, if you’re about to have a snack, use your sanitiser first. Keep it on your desk at work so that you can use it after sneezing or blowing your nose to prevent spreading germs.

Eat well
While it can be tempting to comfort eat when it’s cold or you’re feeling under the weather, make sure to reach instead for the good stuff. Fill your plate with greens and good things so that you’re getting all the nutrients you need. Even if you do succumb to a cold this winter, eating lots of vegetables and lean proteins will give you all the energy you need to fight off the bug.

Keep hydrated
It’s easy to get dehydrated at this time of year as cold water isn’t very tempting! But instead of reaching for warm syrupy lattes, up your fluid intake with herbal teas. Caffeine is a diuretic so won’t help hydrate you, but there are a variety of herbal teas out there – try some of the cinnamon based ones for a spicy winter treat.

Layer up
Transitional weather can play havoc with your wardrobe choices – one minute you’re freezing and the next you’re boiling. Layering up means you can wrap up when you venture out into the cold and damp, but can strip off a few layers if you’re in a warm office or tube.

Get enough sleep
Sleep is when your body recovers, so skipping sleep in favour of winter parties is not ideal. Make sure you get enough sleep every night so your body is strong enough to fight off bugs – and keep you partying all winter long!

Stay active
Don’t huddle inside – get out and get moving! While it’s easy to abandon your run or gym session because of the uninviting weather, it’s not the best thing for your immune system. Stay active and keep your immune system boosted.