ROMSEY-based nutritional therapist Anna Osgerby offers some advice to help boost the immune system and banish winter colds...

IF you are plagued with recurring colds, it could be time to give your immune system some TLC. The immune system is a complete army within each and every one of us, and is important to keep it strong.

This amazing army travels through the lymphatic system, constantly looking out for invading enemies.

When these enemies are found, they are attacked and destroyed, often without us even knowing of their existence.

Sometimes, however, we may develop a fever with accompanying aches, pains and swollen glands.

It should always be remembered that fever is a natural body reaction in its attempt to destroy the invaders and return us to good health again.

A strong immune system will safeguard us against almost everything including viruses, bacterial infections, fungi, parasites and more serious health threats such as cancers.

If you work in a busy office, you could feel you are always in the firing line between everyone's coughs and sneezes.

However, much can be done to improve the immune system and make your overall health a lot better in the process.

Most people are aware that Vitamin C is beneficial in helping to avoid or treat colds and other illnesses.

However, very few people actually have enough of this powerful vitamin.

Generally speaking, we should be taking at least 1,000 mg daily, although more may be needed in certain circumstances.

We cannot make vitamin C in our bodies so it is essential that we eat plenty of vitamin C-rich foods daily.

If you feel a cold starting, take 1,000mg of Vitamin C several times a day until the symptoms pass, gradually reducing the dosage.

A good way to take vitamin C during a cold is in the form of pure ascorbic acid, which you can dilute with water or juice and drink throughout the day.

If your colds usually develop into a throat or chest infection, try colloidal silver or craprylic acid from coconuts, both of which are natural antibiotics.

While suffering from a cold, we often don't feel like eating food but fluids are essential.

Fruit and herb teas along with diluted fruit juices and mineral water are very important to avoid dehydration.

Along with eating vitamin C rich foods, try my immune strengthening daily diet sheet.

Benefits of some simple dietary changes can include more energy, improved skin and hair, weight loss - and fewer colds.

Which just goes to show that the old saying is right - we really are what we eat.

For more information, contact Anna Osgerby on 07973 868823 or e-mail annaosgerby@hotmail.co.uk