It’s an enticing idea for many of us; the idea that we can somehow trigger our immune systems into action via some kind of immediate ‘shock’ or trauma. Indeed, one of those potential means of providing such a ‘shock’ – a cold shower or bath – has been the subject of a few fair traditions and ‘old wives’ tales’ down... Read More

The crucial role that vitamin C – also known as ascorbic acid – has in a range of bodily functions should not be understated. This essential water-soluble vitamin helps to safeguard the health of your body’s cells. It’s a big factor in keeping your skin, blood vessels, cartilage and bones in the best possible shape, and is also instrumental in... Read More

So why do I tend to advise patients to get out in the sunshine and supplement to optimise their vitamin D levels? Because we’re often low in it! The main reasons? We don’t go out in the sunshine enough, we often block the sun either from clothing or suncream, or moisturisers with factor in them, or we have darker skin,... Read More

Ask the Tonic Health Nutritionist Karen Newby: Can you eat your way to better immune health? There’s a lot of discussion about immune food at the moment. I whole heartedly disagree with the British Dietetics Association which states “Simply put, you cannot “boost” your immune system through diet.” Well boost is the wrong word, as it suggests it might cause... Read More

With the summer holiday season seemingly set to get underway after an enforced pause, how do we make sure we travel safely and healthily. Whether you are traveling via airports, trains, or cars, you’re likely going to come into contact with a lot of people, even though things are quieter these days.   What’s more traveling puts your body through... Read More