Reset your immune system

There are things you can do to keep your immune system in the best working order. Try these:

Build those muscles Strength exercises are important to a strong immune system. ‘A good level of muscle mass through resistance exercise keeps the thymus gland in your neck rejuvenated,’ explains immunologist Dr Jenna Macciochi. This gland plays a major role in regulating your immune system.

Fill up with fibre ‘It plays such a key role in your immune system,’ explains Dr Macciochi. ‘And opt for diversity.’ That means getting your fibre from a variety of foods, including fruit and veg, beans and lentils, plus wholegrains such as wholemeal bread, brown rice and wholewheat pasta. Power up with protein Good sources include meat, fish, eggs, beans and pulses. ‘We need to ensure we eat enough protein for amino acids, which help modulate the immune response,’ says Suzie.

Eat a rainbow A range of colourful fruit and veg will ensure ‘a diversity of nutrients, which helps feed your gut microbiome,’ says Suzie. Your gut bugs are essential to your immune system, and another way of supporting them is to include probiotics in your diet.