Spot the Skull Among the Jack-O’-Lanterns in This Halloween Brainteaser
One of the spooky faces in this Halloween brainteaser is not like the others.
2023-10-18 04:49
'Monty Python and the Holy Grail' Returns to Theaters For Its 48 1/2 Anniversary
The comedy classic has a Quote-A-Long version coming to a multiplex near you.
2023-10-18 03:28
EU Clinches Power Market Deal After Nuclear Spat Settled
European Union countries reached an agreement on an overhaul of the bloc’s power market after Germany and France
2023-10-18 01:58
Jon Gnagy, Who Taught TV Viewers About the Joys of Art Before Bob Ross
Long before Bob Ross and his happy little trees, Jon Gnagy was teaching art to the masses.
2023-10-18 01:23
The Stories Behind 8 Famous Photos
From Elvis Presley wearing a velvet suit to meet Richard Nixon to the migrant mother who unwittingly became the face of the Great Depression, these are the true stories behind a few iconic photographs from history.
2023-10-18 00:23
'It takes a lot of time to look like you’ve done nothing...' Camille Rowe reveals secret to her 'French girl thing'
Parisian model Camille Rowe, who's the epitome of effortless chic, says "it takes a lot of time to look like you've done nothing".
2023-10-17 22:28
'I’m a hot mom!' Cardi is proud to be a sexy mature woman
'WAP' singer Cardi B says motherhood has made her "more voluptuous" and made her more confident.
2023-10-17 22:28
'I'm really cliché, but I think beauty comes from within,' says Eva Longoria
'Desperate Housewives' star Eva Longoria believes a person's beauty begins from the inside out.
2023-10-17 22:26
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
J&J lifts profit outlook on strong demand for top-seller Stelara
(Reuters) -Johnson & Johnson on Tuesday raised its 2023 profit forecast, helped by resilient demand for its blockbuster anti-inflammatory drug
2023-10-17 19:23
Ronnie Wood eyes Rolling Stones Glasto return in 2024 or 2025
Ronnie Wood is hoping the band will return to Worthy Farm next year.
2023-10-17 17:28
Samuel L. Jackson and Pierce Brosnan cast in Unholy Trinity
Samuel L. Jackson, Pierce Brosnan and Brandon Lessard have all landed starring roles in Richard Gray's Western film 'Unholy Trinity'.
2023-10-17 17:26