Dr Emma Patel reveals the unexpected food that could make you more susceptible to winter illnesses.

As winter takes its toll on health, with sniffles and sore throats becoming all too common, a leading nutritionist has shared an unexpected food you should steer clear of during the colder months. Dr Emma Patel, an expert in nutrition, warns that one common food could be weakening your immune system, leaving you more vulnerable to the winter bugs that are rampant this time of year.

Collaborating with horticulture specialists from Ashridge Trees, Dr Patel explains how certain foods, often consumed as part of winter comfort diets, can compromise immunity at a time when we need it most. “It may come as a surprise,” Dr Patel begins, “but foods that are high in sugar can actually impair your body’s ability to fight off infections.”

Though sugar is often seen as a quick source of energy and comfort during the dreary winter months, it has a darker side. Dr Patel highlights the way sugar weakens the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off common colds and flu. “When we consume too much sugar, especially refined sugars, it can suppress the immune cells that protect us against viruses,” she explains.

This revelation comes as winter weather and the accompanying illnesses ramp up, with people more susceptible to infections due to lower temperatures and shorter days. Dr Patel recommends avoiding sugary snacks and drinks, as they can spike inflammation, leaving your body more vulnerable to infection.

Instead, Dr Patel stresses the importance of turning to immune-boosting foods that can help keep your defences strong. “Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons, rich in Vitamin C, can give your immune system the support it needs,” she advises. Garlic and ginger, known for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, are also highly recommended to help ward off bugs. Dr Patel further advises adding leafy greens, such as spinach, which are packed with vitamins and antioxidants.

“The key is to focus on foods that nourish and protect your body, not those that will leave it exposed,” Dr Patel adds. She also points to the benefits of natural remedies, including herbal teas like echinacea and elderberry, which have long been touted for their immunity-boosting qualities.

While it’s impossible to avoid every illness during the colder months, Dr Patel’s advice could help limit the impact of winter bugs on your health. By cutting out excessive sugar and incorporating more natural, immune-boosting foods into your diet, you can help your body defend itself against seasonal illnesses.

The bottom line: This winter, swap out sugary treats for healthier options that strengthen your immune system, and keep the common cold and flu at bay.