This can be a difficult time of year for warding off cold sores – low energy, irritating icy winds, and the prevalence of cold bugs going around that make you more vulnerable to outbreaks. However, these tips from a nutritionist and dietician, provide some steps you can take with your diet to ensure that your body is strong enough to weather the storm:

1. Cut the alcohol. Excessive drinking is the most known dietary outbreak trigger.

2. Take a multivitamin. These will help to fill in the gaps if you're deficient in any crucial vitamins or minerals – especially iron, which keeps the body's energy levels stable.

3. Make sure you get plenty of vitamin C from fruits (such as oranges and berries) and vegetables (such as brussel sprouts and peppers). Some studies have shown "promising" results for taking mega doses of vitamin C to help prevent cold sores.

4. Some studies have also indicated that a natural chemical called quercitin (found in apples and onions) has antiviral properties. The moral of the story? Lots of fruits and vegetables will always do your body a favour.