URGENT UPDATE: A new survey reveals that misconceptions about catching colds persist among UK adults, with over 27% believing that simply being outside in the cold can lead to illness. The findings come as winter approaches, raising concerns about public health and immunity during this vulnerable season.
The survey, conducted by Yakult and involving 2,000 UK adults, highlights a widespread misunderstanding of illness transmission. Notably, 28% of respondents think wet hair can make them sick, while 22% believe sitting in draughty rooms poses health risks. Alarmingly, 29% of those surveyed think cold weather weakens the immune system, illustrating a pressing need for public education.
Registered dietitian Lucy Kerrison, who partnered with Yakult, emphasizes that colds are caused by viruses, not temperature. She states, “Cold weather or damp hair don’t cause colds – viruses do.” Her insights come at a crucial time as many people will be spending more time indoors, providing viruses with easier opportunities to spread.
Kerrison stresses the importance of maintaining gut health to bolster immunity during winter. She explains, “About 70% of the body’s immune cells are located in the gut,” which interacts with trillions of microbes. This ecosystem is vital for training the immune system, balancing responses to pathogens, and tolerating harmless substances.
To enhance gut health, Kerrison recommends a diverse diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, and herbs. She notes, “Our gut microbes feed on the fibre found in plant foods, so the more variety you eat, the broader the range of beneficial bacteria you can nurture.” Additionally, incorporating fermented foods such as live yogurt, kimchi, and fermented milk drinks can significantly improve gut balance.
The survey also revealed that 42% of Britons struggle with gut health in winter, and 41% crave richer comfort foods during colder months. With social events leading to overindulgence, it’s no surprise that maintaining a balanced diet becomes challenging. In response, 27% of participants have turned to social media for gut health inspiration, yet 63% admit that online health advice can often be confusing.
Dr. Holly Neill, science manager for Yakult, warns about the dangers of following wellness trends blindly. “Social media can make wellness trends sound simple or miraculous, but not everything you see is backed by science,” she cautioned. Neill advises individuals to avoid sweeping dietary changes, like cutting out gluten, and to seek guidance from credible sources.
As winter 2023 approaches, these findings serve as a critical reminder for the public to prioritize their health and debunk myths that could negatively impact their well-being. The call to action is clear: support gut health through informed dietary choices, and look for reliable health information to navigate the winter season effectively.
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: As winter progresses, experts will continue to provide insights on maintaining health in the face of common misconceptions. Stay informed and ensure your immune system is equipped to handle the challenges of the cold season ahead.
