
Argentine women march in defense of abortion
Thousands of Argentine women marched Thursday in defense of the recently acquired right to abortion, which they fear will be endangered if Javier Milei wins...
2023-09-29 07:47

'Barry' series finale goes out with a seriously bleak bang
Succession's series finale isn't the only recent HBO ending that will leave you feeling empty
2023-05-29 15:54

25 Crossbody Bags We Don’t Want Leaving Our Side
Toss the totes to the side, say sayonara to your shoulder bags, and bid farewell to that overstuffed clutch — at least for now. Today, we're here to make a case for the crossbody bag. Arguably the most low-maintenance member of the purse family, the crossbody is a girl's best friend: It's hands-free, can be layered over just about any outfit, and still looks sleek and cool. And not to sound like your mom, but it's also ridiculously practical. Look ma, no hands!
2023-09-29 02:50

Meta Quest 3 review: There’s only one thing I dislike about this VR headset
“Take that!” I yelled. The Meta Quest 3, the successor to the Quest 2, had
2023-10-09 23:58

Surf's up! Florida's St. George Island beach named nation's best in annual ranking
A 9-mile stretch of Florida sugar-white sand in an unspoiled natural setting alongside the Gulf of Mexico is the nation’s best beach for 2023
2023-05-18 13:25

Native VPN Support Comes to Apple TV With tvOS 17
Apple is set to allow VPN apps on the Apple TV App Store with the
2023-06-11 08:57

How to look after your immune system as the weather changes
The changeable weather is not just affecting our mood and how we dress – doctors have warned it is impacting our immune systems, too. After the warmest October temperatures in five years were recorded at the start of the month, temperatures have since plummeted, with the first frosts of the autumn recorded in several parts of the country this week. And now Storm Babet is set to bring heavy rainfall and wind to many parts of the country over the next few days. Old wives’ tales tell us that cold, damp weather means we’re more likely to become ill – but there is some truth in the warnings, says Dr Babak Ashrafi, GP and clinical lead for service expansion at Superdrug Online Doctor. Recent US research found an increased risk of illness when temperatures drop, because cold lowers immunity in the nose and makes us more susceptible to viruses. A drop in nasal tissue temperature of just 5°C has been found to reduce immune response by almost half. “Rapid shifts from warm to cold weather can stress the body and shock the immune system, making you more vulnerable to colds and infections,” warns Dr Ashrafi. “With Storm Babet on its way, it’s important to prepare your body for this sudden cold spell, to keep your immune system on top form.” To make sure your immune system is as healthy as possible, he recommends: 1. Make sure you’re getting enough vitamin D Dr Ashrafi points out that the changing weather has coincided with seasonal outbreaks of viruses, such as flu. “These infections can put additional strain on the immune system,” he says. “During colder months, decreased sunlight exposure can cut your main source of vitamin D, which is essential for a healthy immune system.” Dr Ashrafi says adding more vitamin D-rich foods into your diet, such as fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, mushrooms, egg yolks and certain fortified orange juices, is a great way to help strengthen your immune system. “It can help protect your immune system by providing an all-important vitamin boost,” he says. “And remember, vitamin D supplements are also a good idea during winter.” The NHS recommends everyone, including pregnant and breastfeeding women, should consider taking a daily supplement containing 10 micrograms of vitamin D during autumn and winter. 2. Dress for the weather Prolonged exposure to cold can increase the risk of illnesses such as the common cold or flu, warns Dr Ashrafi, who explains the body’s core temperature needs to remain within a narrow range for optimal function. “When you’re exposed to cold temperatures, your body works harder to maintain this temperature, diverting energy and resources away from other essential functions, including immune responses,” he says. “It’s always best to check the weather and layer clothing to help insulate your body, making it easier to maintain core temperature without excessive effort.” 3. Maintain a healthy diet Consuming a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein and whole grains will provide essential nutrients to support immune function, says Dr Ashrafi. “Probiotics from yoghurt or kefir are also great for helping to maintain a healthy gut microbiome, which plays a significant role in immune health,” he advises. 4. Stay hydrated It’s important to drink plenty of water or sugar-free soft drinks, even in the autumn and winter, as good hydration also plays a role in keeping the immune system healthy, says Dr Ashrafi. “Ensure you’re staying hydrated despite the cold, to keep mucous membranes moist, helping to defend against infections.” 5. Get some rest Dr Ashrafi explains that sleep is crucial for the production of antibodies, which in turn recognise and neutralise pathogens such as viruses and bacteria. “To boost and support your immune system, it’s essential to prioritise and maintain healthy sleep habits. Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night by establishing a regular sleep schedule in a comfortable environment. “These practices will help ensure your immune system functions optimally and can effectively protect your body from infections.” 6. Get your flu vaccination Flu vaccinations target the specific strains of the influenza virus that are expected to be prevalent during the flu season. Dr Ashrafi says: “If you’re considered vulnerable and are particularly concerned about the sudden cold, getting an annual flu shot can protect you from seasonal influenza. “Avoiding flu can be difficult, especially as it can be passed on through sneezing, coughing and even hand contact, so it’s important you wash your hands regularly. Getting vaccinated annually ensures your immune system is well-prepared to defend against the most likely influenza variants.” Read More How to protect your plants as the first frosts arrive How to prep your home for when the clocks go back This is shoe designer Jimmy Choo’s proudest achievement 4 black women on their experiences with breast cancer See Madonna’s extravagant tour outfits – including an updated cone bra Halloween pumpkins – how to grow your own
2023-10-17 22:18

The best dating sites for introverts, wallflowers, and anyone hesitant to try online dating
Online dating is kind of the best thing that's ever happened to introverts. Now, you
2023-08-23 17:16

A Week In San Francisco On A $210,000 Salary
Welcome to Money Diaries where we are tackling the ever-present taboo that is money. We’re asking real people how they spend their hard-earned money during a seven-day period — and we’re tracking every last dollar.
2023-10-21 00:26

Liz Weston: 5 ways to simplify and reduce your money clutter
Streamline how you manage your money to save yourself time and reduce stress
2023-05-29 20:27

Bing chat history and new mobile features are going live this week
New generative AI Bing and Edge features teased earlier this month are going live. Earlier
2023-05-17 23:47

Are people actually using TikTok for news?
It has been nearly four years since I made my first TikTok, bright-eyed and sporting
2023-10-20 19:47
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