Family protection from the flu

From a Nutritionist Mummy

@emmatalksnutrition

Family protection from the flu? I just wanted to share some of what supplements we take in my household, and how I attempt to offer some protection to kids and adults alike against cold and flu infections during high-risk times: 1. Specific Protection from Colds and Flu – Echinaforce. Echinacea is a herb which is fantastic for supporting the immune system – appropriately and when we need it ? 2. Nutrients – Vit D – immune modulation and deficiencies are super likely. Vit C – A powerful antioxidant, protecting out cells from free radical damage, including immune cells☀️ ? 3. Gut health - Genuinely from my family’s experience I think this has been monumental and often the missing piece of the picture for people. Immune health resides in the gut. I use a combination of probiotics, supported by a source of L+ lactic acid (Molkosan)? I really hope everyone stays well, these recommendations can be put into place before, during and after illness, whether vaccinated or not, and they will help you at every stage in terms of protection, recovery, and recovery beyond a viral infection where we risk becoming more susceptible to secondary infections. Brands mentioned – A.Vogel, BetterYou, Optibac, but no links as not an ad. Get online direct, Amazon or local health food stores. Message me if you can’t find them ? Stay well people and enjoy the festivities ??✨

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Qualified Nutritionist (BSc, MSc, RNutr)
@emmatalkshealth
@EmmaThornton
Ask Emma


19 December 2025

Family Protection from the Flu

A few simple, supportive habits we use at home during cold & flu season

As we head into the higher-risk months for coughs, colds, and flu, I wanted to share a little snapshot of what we do in our household to support immune health — for both kids and adults. This isn’t about magic bullets or quick fixes, just gentle, consistent support that we’ve found genuinely helpful over the years.

Everyone’s body is different, of course, but these are the foundations we lean on before illness strikes, during those early sniffles, and even after recovery.


1. Targeted Support for Colds & Flu: Echinacea

One of our go-to remedies is Echinaforce, which contains echinacea — a herb well known for supporting the immune system when it needs a bit of extra help.

What I love about echinacea is that it supports immune function appropriately, rather than overstimulating it. We tend to use it during high-risk times or right at the first sign of a sore throat or runny nose.


☀️2. Essential Nutrients: Vitamin D & Vitamin C

These two are absolute staples in our home:

  • Vitamin D plays a huge role in immune modulation, and deficiencies are incredibly common — especially in the darker months.

  • Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect our cells (including immune cells) from free-radical damage.

Simple, affordable, and very effective when used consistently.


3. Gut Health: The Missing Piece for Many

From our family’s experience, gut health has been monumental — and it’s often the missing piece of the puzzle.

A large part of our immune system actually resides in the gut, so supporting it makes a real difference. We use:

  • A quality probiotic, and

  • A source of L+ lactic acid (Molkosan) to support beneficial bacteria

When the gut is happy, the immune system is far better equipped to do its job.


A Note on Timing & Recovery

These supports can be used before, during, and after illness, whether you’re vaccinated or not. They’re not just about prevention — they also help with recovery and can reduce the risk of secondary infections once a virus has passed.


Brands We Use

For transparency, the brands we currently use include:

  • A.Vogel

  • BetterYou

  • Optibac

No links and no ads — you can usually find them online, on Amazon, or in local health food stores. If you’re struggling to source anything, feel free to message me.


Wishing everyone a healthy season, fewer sniffles, and more energy to enjoy the festivities ahead ✨
Stay well, take care of yourselves, and be kind to your immune system.

Echinaforce® Echinacea Drops

15ml

£ 5.49

For relieving the symptoms of colds and flu. Also in 50ml & 100ml drops.
More info

A.Vogel Digestisan Oral Drops

50ml

£ 12.99

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