The average American adult experiences 2-3 bouts of the common cold a year, and as winter approaches the likelihood of getting sick increases. For years it’s been thought that cold and flu viruses are rife during winter because colder temperatures drive people indoors, and being in close proximity to a group allows viruses to transfer from one person to another more easily. Now, research by a team of Massachusetts Eye and Ear Hospital and Northeastern University suggests there may be biological reasons for why we’re at significantly increased risk of getting sick when the temperatures drop. Virus particles enter the nose through inhalation or direct touch. After they make their way in, the cells in our nasal cavities swiftly activate to start expelling them. The new study findings indicate that colder temperatures significantly impair this immune response. When nasal tissues are exposed to temperatures of 40ยบ F, the immune system can be decreased by as much as 40%. This reduction can make the virus more apt to stick to the nasal cells. From there, they can divide and cause infection. The good news is that Vitamin C can help bolster our nasal defenses, as it has been shown to enhance our mucus membranes, as well as overall immunity. Vitamin C can be taken as a supplement, but the easiest way to get it is by eating foods such as oranges, broccoli and red peppers.
