THE DREADED CHRISTMAS COLD-AND HOW TO AVOID IT

Sadly, 'tis the season to catch a virus, but you can boost your immune system

-  SARAH FINLEY

It's the most wonderful time of the year - until you pick up a bug and you're swapping Christmas cocktails for snotty tissues and bingeing Netflix in bed. So, why do we always get ill during the Christmas period, and is it possible to avoid it?

December is official gloves and hats season, but while low temperatures don't create more viruses, our changing habits can weaken your immune system.

"People are at increased risk of catching viral respiratory infections like the common cold or the flu around the Christmas period," explains Claire Nevinson, superintendent pharmacist at Boots.

"During the winter months, the temperature drops, and the weather becomes cold and damp, which can lead to people spending more time mixing indoors, where viruses can be easily spread through droplets in the air from coughing and sneezing."

Christmas can also be a stressful time for many people. The pressure associated with shopping, travel, or hosting family (we've all had that one big Christmas row) makes us more vulnerable to illness.

"During a stressful event, the body can release [the hormone] cortisol. If this happens regularly or over a prolonged period, cortisol can suppress the immune system," adds Claire. "It's therefore really important to find ways to help manage everyday stress.

"Some ways to help do this include regular exercise, eating a healthy and balanced diet and scheduling in time for self-care - some people find meditation or breathing exercises beneficial."