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Golf parked at entrance to international airport in short-term spot for a YEAR racks up eye-watering six-figure fine

A VW Golf parked for over a year in a short-stay spot at the entrance to an international airport has racked up an eye-watering six-figure fine.

The owner will been hit by a crippling £170,000 bill after leaving their motor outside Berlin airport – if they can be identified.

Silver Volkswagen Golf parked in an airport parking lot at night.
The offending Gold has sat right outside Berlin Airport for over a year
Berlin-Tegel airport taxi rank.
Getty
The carpark outside the entrance is only meant for short-stay sessions[/caption]

They grey Golf seems to have been abandoned and its owner is currently unknown, despite the best efforts of airport staff.

Vehicles are supposed to use the carpark only for short periods of time.

The first ten minutes are free, 15 minutes costs £4.20, and every additional minute adds £1.60.

An hour in the carpark sets drivers back a hefty £19.30.

These rates mean that the daily parking fee outside the German airport is a whopping £464.

These steep prices explain how the car accrued such a ridiculous penalty.

Airport staff and the local authority are stumped over what to do with the car.

They have no idea who it belongs to or why it was abandoned in the short-stay parking spot for such a long time.

German newspaper Bild reported that one theory suggests the car was stolen and then dumped.

Another German newspaper, Berliner Zeitung, asked cops from Hanover and Berlin about the car, but there was no sign of it in any records.

Stuttgart-based company APCOA Deutschland GmbH runs the airport’s carpark, and its manager told the newspaper they were aware of the unusual case and in contact with the relevant authorities.

With no idea where the owner is, it seems unlikely that the £170,000 fine will ever be paid.

APCOA said: “Whether parking fees owed in this context can be collected depends on whether the debtor can be identified and has the necessary financial means.”

An abandoned Saab dealership was visited by a group of urban explorers last year who uploaded the footage online.

The eerie showroom recently featured on the YouTube channel Forgotten Buildings.

In the video, the curious YouTubers can be seen entering the building through a gap in the wall, and coming into a long-abandoned room covered in dirt and muck, with paper, trash and boxes scattered across the floor.

Curiously, plants are still growing in the corner of the room, presumably due to water getting into the building through the ceiling, while a creepy children’s slide is propped up in the corner.

But most amazingly, the centre of the large room is taken up by three unsold Saab models.

The Saabs, which appear to be 9-3s – the final cars the Swedish marque built before they entered financial difficulties – are missing their wheels, lights, and other valuable parts.

But their original price tags remain, showing that the cars were once on sale for around £9,000 before the dealership closed.

Berlin-Tegel Airport taxi rank.
Alamy
The security firm in charge of the carpark is trying to find the owner to impose the fine[/caption]

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The ‘dynamic’ spring sunshine spot with golden beaches, €4 pints, major theme park and €30 Ryanair flights

TAKE a look at this “sun drenched” holiday spot just 2.5 hours from Ireland – with flights for only €39.99.

Benidorm is a municipality in Spain and is located in the famous Alicante region.

Beach scene in Benidorm, Spain, with people relaxing on the sand and a yellow flag indicating beach safety.
Alamy
The Levante beach is the city’s most popular sandy spot[/caption]
Beach scene in Benidorm, Spain, with many people relaxing on lounge chairs.
Alamy
The city offers a stunning coastline and cityscape[/caption]

Known for its year round good weather, the sunny spot attracts thousands of visitors each year.

And with turquoise waters, a historic old town, and buzzing nightlife, it’s not hard to see why.

Benidorm is the ideal destination for Irish punters looking to escape the chill at home without breaking the bank.

Located under three hours from Dublin Airport, it’s the perfect place for a short holiday in the sun.

And Ryanair has flights to this popular destination for only €31.99 on selected dates.

The airline giant offers journeys to Alicante Airport, which is only forty minutes from the destination.

There, in the comfort of an affordable hotel room or self-catering apartment, jetsetters can enjoy all the “dynamic” destination has to offer.

One of the major draws of Benidorm is the beaches, which offer crystal clear water and soft golden sand.

BRAVING THE WATER

The most popular beach for families and groups is the Playa de Levante, located in the New Town.

The spot enjoys everything you could need for a hassle-free day at the beach, including facilities and amenities.

The water is safe for swimming and even enjoys warm temperatures, so anyone can brave a quick swim.

And for those who don’t fancy a dip, there’s plenty of space to pull up a chair and enjoy the sunshine.

There are also sunbeds to rent for those who want to work on their tan or enjoy a good book.

The beach also has plenty of activities on offer from games in the sand to water sports.

BEYOND THE BEACHES

Holidaygoers can try their hand at surfing, paddle boarding, and even jet skiing.

A major bonus is the pubs and restaurants that line the back of the beach, perfect for enjoying a post-swim pick-me-up.

Another popular beach is Playa Mal Pas, a quieter spot but no less beautiful.

Offering stunning views of the coastline and city nearby, visitors can enjoy warm, safe water for swimming and a spot on the golden sand to relax.

Beyond the beaches, Benidorm has loads more on offer, from historic attractions to buzzing nightlife.

The Old Town of the city is famous for its winding cobblestone streets and colourful buildings.

THRILL SEEKING THEME PARK

It’s the perfect place to get lost in for a day, taking in the charming buildings and historical sights.

One great way to experience the Old Town is by taking a guided walking tour that will talk you through all the sights and stops along the way.

Another must-do while in the city is visiting Aqualandia, Benidorm’s great water park.

The huge park is perfect for thrill seekers and families alike, with something on offer for all ages.

It includes multiple swimming pools as well as a wave pool and a lazy river.

There are steep and fast slides for adrenaline junkies, but also more relaxed options for toddlers.

LOTS ON OFFER

The park has a handy system that labels each attraction depending on how exciting it is.

There are also plenty of restaurants and snack spots on site to keep you fuelled throughout the day.

Back in the city, a trip to Benidorm wouldn’t be complete without a night out.

The city has plenty on offer for those who want to dance the night away or who prefer an evening of culture.

The Spanish coast is famous for its fresh and delicious seafood, so why not start the evening by sampling some of the local cuisine?

Alicante is also known for producing delicious wine, so an evening out for dinner is a real treat.

MUST SEE SPOT

After that, why not immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy a flamenco show?

For those who want to spend the night doing something a little more fast paced, Benidorm is known for its buzzing nightlife.

Many clubs stay open until the early hours of the morning, offering brilliant DJs and pints at €4.

For those looking for a brilliant night out, Calle Gerona is the spot to be.

The area stretches from the buzzing new town to the beginning of the Old Town, and offers everything you need for a night out.

The streets are lined with karaoke bars, cocktails spots, and dance clubs perfect for a night out.

Beach scene in Benidorm, Spain, with palm trees and people enjoying a sunny day.
Alamy
Alicante region enjoys year round warm weather[/caption]
Crowded Benidorm beach with high-rise buildings in the background.
Alamy
Benidorm beaches have all that families need for a day on the sand[/caption]
Tourists enjoying the sun at an outdoor cafe overlooking Benidorm, Spain.
Alamy
The city offers delicious food and drinks[/caption]

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The Masked Singer fans convinced Bush is award-winning Netflix star after spotting TWO cryptic clues

MASKED Singer fans are convinced Bush is an award-winning Netflix star after spotting two clues.

Bush’s most recent Masked Singer performance saw them take on Our House by Madness.

81st Annual Golden Globe Awards - Press Room. 05 Jan 2025 Pictured: Jessica Gunning. Photo credit: CraSH/imageSPACE / MEGA TheMegaAgency.com sales@mega.global
Masked Singer fans think Jessica Gunning could be behind Bush
MEGA
Lorraine Kelly shocked as Baby Reindeer star Jessica Gunning reveals 'real accent' after Netflix hit
She played Martha in the Netflix hit Baby Reindeer
Netflix
This image and the information contained herein is strictly embargoed until 00:01 Tuesday 21st January 2025 ..From Bandicoot TV..The Masked Singer SR6 Ep5 :on ITV1 and ITVX..Pictured: Joel Dommet & Bush..This photograph is (C) Bandicoot TV and can only be reproduced for editorial purposes directly in connection with the programme or event mentioned above, or ITV plc. This photograph must not be manipulated [excluding basic cropping] in a manner which alters the visual appearance of the person photographed deemed detrimental or inappropriate by ITV plc Picture Desk. This photograph must not be syndicated to any other company, publication or website, or permanently archived, without the express written permission of ITV Picture Desk. Full Terms and conditions are available on the website www.itv.com/presscentre/itvpictures/terms..For further information please contact:.michael.taiwo1@itv.com
Other guesses for Bush have included Natalie Cassidy and Morgana Robinson
ITV

Now viewers have put together two of the clues given by the character and insisted it’s Baby Reindeer star Jessica Gunning.

There have been nods to Australia and Doctor Who during Bush’s VTs.

And one fan wrote on social media: “Could it not be Jessica Gunning?

“She was an Australian backpacker in Inside No. 9 and was in a small role in the episode Partners in Crime in Doctor Who in 2008.”

Jessica starred as Martha in the 2024 Netflix series Baby Reindeer.

For her portrayal of Martha she won an Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress.

But fans previously predicted a hilarious twist for the Bush reveal.

As well as Jessica, EastEnders legend Natalie Cassidy has been a top giess from viewers.

And it’s also been heavily suggested Bush could be Morgana Robinson doing her famous impression of the Sonia Fowler actress.

One wrote: “Bush does sound like Natalie Cassidy but would love it to be Morgana Robinson doing her Natalie Cassidy impression.”

Another said: “I was thinking Natalie Cassidy but then I remember Morgana doing a brilliant Natalie impression on her show…”

Someone else commented: “Bush is probably Morgana Robinson doing a Sonia impression.”

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Who is Bush on The Masked Singer 2025? Latest clues and fan theories

FANS of The Masked Singer’s 2025 series are convinced they have worked out the identity of Bush.

After the latest episode of the ITV singing contest on Saturday January 25, viewers believe that Jessica Gunning is hiding behind the leafy costume.

Costumed contestants on The Masked Singer: Bear, Bush, Toad, Pegasus, Pufferfish, and Wolf.
ITV
The Masked Singer has returned to screens[/caption]

Who is Bush on The Masked Singer 2025?

Bush is one of 12 celebrities taking to the stage during the sixth season of TV’s favourite guessing game, The Masked Singer.

Praising show bosses for coming up with the name of Bush, judge Davina McCall said: ”The fact that we’ve called somebody Bush this year is too funny.

”Being called Bush every five minutes by (host) Joel [Dommett] makes me laugh so much.”

As well as Bush, the new series welcomes 11 other contestants, including Snail, Toad In The Hole and Kingfisher.

Bush made their singing debut in the second episode of the show, singing Wake Up Boo, by The Boo Radleys.

Despite being voted into the bottom two by the audience, Bush was saved by the judges, so more clues and performances will be coming our way.

What are the clues?

In true The Masked Singer style, Bush dropped several clues in their first appearance on the show.

The character’s main hints so far include:

  • Determined to show they aren’t a “coward”
  • They like the outdoors and gardening
  • Bush also likes to “stage manage” where the plants go
  • A “Best Bush in Show” trophy
  • A judge’s gavel and wig
  • Time to get “tree-actrical”
  • They’re hoping for another “koala-ty” performance
  • Performing can be a bit “trowel” and error

Bush also shared the riddle: ”I’ve been training for years, and there’s no turning back.

”Have you peeped through my leaves? Are you on the right track?”

Who do the Masked Singer judges think Bush could be?

The 2025 judging panel is made up of Maya Jama, Davina McCall, Jonathan Ross, and Mo Gilligan.

Love Island host Maya Jama has taken over from Rita Ora.

Jessica Gunning at the 2024 BAFTA Television Awards.
Getty
Fans are now convinced that Jessica Gunning could be hiding under the Bush costume[/caption]

With the new singing series in full swing, the panel have already made several guesses.

Davina McCall chose Catherine O’Hara and guest judge Vicky McClure threw BBC’s Ground Force host Charlie Dimmock into the mix.

Other names put forward by the judges were Billie Piper and Stacey Solomon.

New judge Maya Jama said the clues led her to believe it was Idris Elba, but the voice didn’t match

Who do The Masked Singer fans think Bush is?

Those watching at home have joined the judges and shared several of their fan theories so far.

Following an episode of The Masked Singer on Saturday January 25, viewers decided that the Baby Reindeer actress, Jessica Gunning, could be the person behind the leafy bush costume.

Connecting the clues one fan on Reddit wrote: “Could it not be Jessica Gunning? She was an Australian backpacker in Inside No. 9 and was in a small role in the episode Partners in Crime in Doctor Who in 2008.”

However, before Bush even took to the stage, viewers were already convinced they knew who was behind the mask.

They were convinced that Bush was McFly bandmate Tom Fletcher after a clue was dropped by The Masked Singer 2024 winner Danny Jones.

Danny said he was given the option of playing either a Bush, or a Piranha, ahead of last year’s show.

Fans jumped on this and named Tom as the character.

Sharing their theory online, one fan wrote: ”Tbh i think it’s Tom. It just looks like him idk how to explain.”

However, after appearing on Sunday, January 5, 2025, it was revealed that Bush was in fact female.

In the week that followed, fan theories pointed to a huge soap star.

Fingers began pointing at EastEnders legend Natalie Cassidy.

One posted online: “DO THESE PEOPLE NOT KNOW SONIA FOWLER #TheMaskedSinger.”

Another added: “Natalie Cassidy as the Bush…. possibly.”

While others are whole-heartedly convinced that comedian Morgana Robinson is doing an impression of the Eastenders soap star to throw viewers off.

A Reddit user wrote: “It’s definitely Morgana Robinson.

“She does a very good Natalie Cassidy impression, was born in Australia (judges are going down the I’m A Celeb route) and she was in an episode of Inside No9.”

However the same poster also cheekily said: “After the clues, who pee’d in a bush.

“Paula Radcliffe!!!! BOOM!!! Too good at this.”

Other guesses included comedian Lolly Adefope, TV host Stacey Solomon, and gardener Charlie Dimmock.

Who has left The Masked Singer 2025 so far?

Much to the delight of telly fans, The Masked Singer is back in 2025.

Twelve celebrities have been hidden behind intricate costumes, with their identities concealed.

Sadly, not all of this year’s whacky and wonderful characters can make it to the end of the show, as there can only be one winner.

Here’s who has been unmasked so far:

Teeth – this character baffled judges and viewers with their changing voice. They were finally unmasked as former Bake Off host Mel Giedroyc. None of the panel managed to guess it was her.

Tattoo – despite Davina McCall saying “you sound the same” after this character was unmasked, none of the judges guessed it was 80s singer Carol Decker, whose hit China In Your Hand was a No1 hit for five weeks

Toad In The Hole – a massive diva strop saw the character storm off the stage after the judges voted them off. They later returned to be unmasked as singer Macy Gray

Pegasus – the mythical horse was revealed to be Prue Leith, with judge Jonathan Ross correctly guessing her identity

Spag Bol – this character was first to be unmasked and was none other than Good Morning Britain host Kate Garraway.

Plus there was one extra unmasking this season, with Giant Joel – a caricature of host Joel Dommett – unveiled as double-double Olympic champion Sir Mo Farah.

Read More »

Top GAA referee reveals gaelic football rule change that ‘you won’t be able to police’ but defends dissent punishment

DAVID COLDRICK has highlighted one of the gaelic football rule changes that will be ‘difficult to police’ at club level.

A host of new changes devised by Jim Gavin and the Football Review Committee were on display on the opening weekend of the Allianz Leagues.

Referee David Coldrick at a Tyrone v Derry Allianz Football League Division 1 match.
Referee David Coldrick defended the new gaelic football rule concerning dissent or delaying a free
Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile
Referee signaling during a Galway v Armagh football match.
But he believes the 3Up-3Back will be difficult to police at club level
David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile

One such alteration was the 3Up-3Back rule, which stipulates that each time must have three outfield players in the opposition half at all times.

There were a few instances of teams being in breach of the rule, with the consequence being a 20m free.

While the inter-county game sees plenty of sideline officials and umpires to assist referees in enforcing the rules, Coldrick fears for those at club level.

The Meath man was in charge of Tyrone‘s win over Derry in Division 2 at the weekend.

And he told RTE: “I think the 3 v 3 is the big one.

“From a refereeing perspective, you can’t really police it yourself so you are depending on your linesmen and so on greater teamwork.

“At intercounty, that’s fine, we do have a full team. The 3 v 3 at club level is going to be very difficult.”

Another change that came into effect and drew criticism was the new rule concerning dissent.

Under the new guidelines, the player who has committed the foul must hand the ball to an opponent in a “prompt and respectful manner”.

Referees will be able to award a 50m free in the event of a tactical foul that delays or interferes with a free or sideline kick, or dissent over a referee’s decision.

New Derry manager Paddy Tally labelled the rule as “draconian” but Coldrick said it will help to “change the culture” at club level.

He added: “I do think the 50 metres for delaying and for dissent is really, really important, probably more so for underage referees at club level because we’re trying to change a culture there.

“So I’d say just stick with it and as we saw, the rules can bring a lot more excitement to Gaelic Football.

“I think it was a great game of football (Roscommon vs Down), a very open game which is obviously helped by the 3 v 3.

“From an official’s perspective you’ve seen everything here today, all of the various FRC enhancements in practice.

“And for a referee that’s a lot to take in and think about, just being clear as to what the penalties are for various offences because they’re not all the same.

“To be fair to the national panel of referees we have done a lot of homework, a lot of retraining of the rules.

“Even up to last Friday night, we did a session ourselves, the full panel, for an hour and a half, just talking through various scenarios and trying to make sure we were consistent in our interpretation of some of the rules that maybe aren’t fully, fully clear.

“So we were well ready for it but there’s still a long way to go.”

Read More »

Real reason Kirstie Allsopp’s TV husband Phil Spencer was missing from her wedding revealed after surprise vows

FANS have been left wondering why Kirstie Allsopp’s TV husband Phil Spencer was missing from her surprise wedding.

The Location Location Location presenter tied the knot with her long term partner in an “elegant and lowkey” secret ceremony in Mayfair, London last week.

Kirstie Allsopp and Ben Andersen at the Conservative Party Summer Ball.
Rex Features
Kirstie Allsopp and hew husband Ben tied knot after 20 years together[/caption]
Kirstie Allsopp and Phil Spencer, Location Location Location.
Channel 4
Kirstie’s work husband Phil Spencer was missing from the wedding[/caption]
Kirstie Allsopp and Ben Anderson at the Jaguar Land Rover Pavilion.
The newlyweds kept their wedding secret and also planned it at the last minute
Rex

Kirstie has been in a relationship with the self-made property tycoon Ben Andersen – who is now her husband – for the past 20 years.

But last Thursday they decided to make things official and tied the knot in a secret, last minute, wedding.

However, one person who was noticeably missing from Kirstie’s big day was her famous work hubby, Phil.

Kirstie and Ben kept their wedding a secret right up until the last minute.

Because of this, some of their friends and family couldn’t make the wedding – which included Phil.

Kirstie and Phil have worked together for almost 25 years, thanks to their long running Channel 4 show, Location, Location, Location.

In an interview at the weekend, Kirstie explained more about why her best mate Phil wasn’t at her wedding.

“On Thursday, Ben and I were married at The Grosvenor Chapel, where my parents and grandparents were married, and where we celebrated my father’s life in June,” she told The Mail on Sunday.

“We had with us a small group of close friends and family who only heard about the wedding on Monday.

“The flowers, the catering, the order of service and the lighting were all done by people I have worked with over the years who kept it all secret and put together an amazing event at very short notice, though because of that short notice some beloved friends and family couldn’t be there, including Phil.”

Kirstie and Ben, who have homes in both Devon and London, first met in 2004 while attending a party for a prospective Conservative MP.

At the time, Ben and his ex-wife Theresa had only been separated for five months, with Kirstie forced to shut down rumours that she had “stolen” Ben from his ex.

“I did not [steal him]. I met Ben at a party for a prospective Tory MP friend of mine, Orlando Fraser.

“Ben’s wife, whom I knew at school and whom he was already separated from, introduced us,” she told the Evening Standard in 2012.

Kirstie and Ben have two sons, Bay, who was born in 2006, and Oscar, who was born in 2008.

Phil Spencer at the Ideal Home Show.
Phil couldn’t make the wedding because it was so short notice and he was unavailable
Rex

HAPPY BEING UNMARRIED

Speaking in an interview previously, Kirstie seemingly revealed that she never had plans to marry Ben, saying how their children were their commitment to one another.

“Ben has been married before and so I don’t think he’s in a hurry to do it again,” she previously spilled.

“Our child [children] is our commitment to each other.'”

Phil Spencer and Kirstie Allsopp.
Channel 4
Kirstie has been working with Phil for almost 25 years[/caption]

The TV star is also stepmother to her partner’s two sons from his previous marriage, Hal and Orion.

Kirstie spoke about being a stepmother in 2021, with her revealing how she had put a lot of effort into her relationship with her stepsons.

Writing for the Daily Mail, she penned: “I can honestly say I have put more thought and effort into my relationship with my stepsons than anything else in my life.”

Before Kirstie met Ben, she had been described as “not girlfriend material” by someone she had dated.

She previously told Stylist magazine: “No one was interested in me in my twenties. 

“I had ‘please marry me’ tattooed on my forehead. It was so vital to me to get married and have children.”

She then, at a later date, told The Mirror: “One chap said, ‘Kirstie, you will make someone a fantastic wife but you are not girlfriend material’.”

Kirstie Allsopp at a BUILD event.
Getty
Kirstie has two sons whom she shares with her now-husband[/caption]

Read More »

How to watch Love Island All Stars 2025 abroad – stream outside the UK

LOVE ISLAND All Stars is in full swing on ITV – and we’re absolutely hooked.

Heading overseas soon? No need to worry: here’s how to watch the latest season of Love Island abroad.

Love Island All Stars logo with a sparkly heart.
Love Island has returned to 2025 with an All Stars edition – it can be streamed from ITVX

If there’s one antidote to the wet, cold and general gloom of January, it’s Love Island and all its saucy antics.

There’s been no shortage of drama in the latest All Stars season – we’ve just seen some misery in the wake of a mass cull.

On top of that, fans are worrying about Luca Bish breaking down in tears after a blazing row with Scott Thomas.

ITV showrunners haven’t yet confirmed the end date of the series, but it’ll likely wrap up in mid-February.

But if you want to watch Love Island 2025 from overseas? There’s a problem: streaming ITVX from outside the UK is blocked.

Fortunately, there’s a simple solution. You can use a VPN, such as ExpressVPN or NordVPN, to stream ITV shows like Love Island from overseas.

VPNs are online tools that can simulate a UK-based IP address, allowing you to bypass content restrictions.

Read on to learn how to use a VPN to access ITVX abroad.

How to watch Love Island 2025 abroad with a VPN

The whole process for watching Love Island 2025 while you’re outside the UK is actually pretty simple.

Firstly, download a VPN like ExpressVPN or NordVPN to whatever device you use to stream content.

Then load the VPN app on that device, and select a UK server.

After that, just head to ITVX, and search for Love Island. Play, sit back, and enjoy!

ITVX is where you can catch up on episodes that are already live. You can also use a VPN to watch Love Island live on ITV2, but remember: you need to have a TV license to watch any live UK television from overseas.

Head to our how to watch ITV abroad to find out more.

To stream another cult reality show, don’t miss our guide on how to watch The Traitors abroad.

When does Love Island All Stars 2025 start?

It isn’t long until the latest shenanigans at Casa Amor kick off again.

The latest series of Love Island starts at 9pm on Monday 13 January 2025.

You’ll find the All Stars edition available to watch – as ever – on ITV2.

How many Love Islands will there be in 2025?

The number of Love Islands this year has not yet been confirmed by ITV bosses.

But we’re going to make a confident guess that there’ll be two.

Love Island All Stars is soon to kick off – and with that set for our screens, it seems all-but-impossible we won’t get the summer show this June.

We’ll keep this page updated with all the latest news we hear.

Can you watch Love Island in the US?

We’re thrilled that Love Island has been a hit across the pond, and American fans can access this year’s season using a VPN, as outlined earlier in this article.

For more information and streaming options, check out our how to Watch Love Island in the US explainer.

We’ve actually tested several VPNs – you can check out our favourites in our best VPN service and best VPN for Netflix round-ups.

For an in-depth guide, visit our what is a VPN and are they legal? explainer.

MORE STREAMING

STREAM BEEB

How to watch BBC iPlayer abroad

Head to our Love Island All Stars hub for all the latest news and gossip from the show.

For a trip down memory lane, here’s the complete list of previous Love Island winning couples.

We also know how you can catch-up on Love Island episodes without adverts for free.

Read More »

7 Best Supplements to Boost Your Immune System This Cold and Flu Season



Flu cases are surging, COVID isn't going anywhere, and other respiratory viruses like RSV and whooping cough have medical professionals extremely concerned. Even if you have your vaccinations and are diligent about washing your hands, unless you live in a bubble, you can still get sick this winter. However, doctors say that taking certain supplements could help protect you from colds, the flu, and other contagious viruses. Read on to learn the best vitamins for your immune system.

RELATED: 21 Surprising Signs You Have a Vitamin Deficiency.

​1. Vitamin E


Woman Taking Vitamins

Vitamin E isn't a common supplement, but the "powerful antioxidant" may be one of your best bets for boosting immunity, according to registered dietitian Jesse Feder.

"Vitamin E is important for the creation and support of T-cells, which help fight off viruses and bacteria," he explains. "Additionally, vitamin E has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can help fight off inflammation that is caused from bacterial/viral infections as well as chronic illnesses."

A 2020 study published in the journal IUBMB Life even noted that vitamin E "is one of the most effective nutrients known to modulate immune function."

"Although deficiency is rare, vitamin E supplementation above current dietary recommendations has been shown to enhance the function of the immune system and reduce risk of infection, particularly in older individuals," the study continues.

​2. Vitamin D


vitamin D supplements on white background

Sunlight provides a lot of natural vitamin D, which makes it all the more important to ensure adequate intake during the winter months.

In fact, vitamin D deficiency is among the most common forms of vitamin deficiency in the U.S. And those who lack vitamin D may be more susceptible to certain illnesses, including respiratory infections.

To this point, a meta-analysis of 25 randomized controlled trials, which included more than 11,000 subjects, confirmed the supplement's protective effect when taken daily or weekly, cutting the risk of respiratory infection in half for those with significant deficiencies.

Additionally, a 2021 study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that "the habitual use of vitamin D supplements was significantly associated with a 34% lower risk of COVID-19 infection."

3. Zinc


The zinc supplementary white capsule with fresh oyster on block wood

Zinc supplements became popular during the COVID pandemic, but doctors say it's still worth considering this mineral for its cold-fighting abilities.

"Most colds are caused by a type of virus called rhinovirus, which thrives and multiplies in the nasal passages and throat (upper respiratory system). Zinc may work by preventing the rhinovirus from multiplying. It may also stop the rhinovirus from lodging in the mucous membranes of the throat and nose," explains Mayo Clinic.

However, the effects of zinc may be modest, as registered dietitian Kimberley Wiemann, RDN, owner of Kimberley Wiemann Nutrition and nutrition consultant for Consumer Health Digest, previously explained to Best Life.

"Studies show that if someone starts taking zinc within 24 hours of symptoms developing, then symptoms can be reduced. However, other studies have shown little to no effect," she says.

RELATED: Doctors Worry This Mineral Deficiency Is Becoming More Common—Are You at Risk?

4. Elderberry


closeup of a person pouring elderberry supplements into their hand

Recently, elderberry has made headlines for aiding in weight loss, reducing inflammation, and more. But the supplement's biggest claim to fame is its immune-boosting benefits.

"Elderberry supplements contain a high amount of antioxidants, as well as vitamin C," notes personal trainer and registered dietitian Jesse Feder. "The high amounts of antioxidants in elderberry can help fight off radical oxide damage from invading bacteria and viruses. Additionally, the high amount of vitamin C in elderberries can help support immune function."

However, elderberry may be best to take once you're already sick.

As The Washington Post explains, some scientific research supports that elderberry may shorten the duration of cold or flu symptoms, "but there’s no evidence the supplements can protect someone from catching a respiratory illness."

​5. Vitamin C


vitamin C supplements next to oranges

Vitamin C is the supplement most commonly associated with immunity, but it may not be quite as powerful as we all assume.

Though research on the subject has yielded conflicting results, Harvard Health Publishing says vitamin C has "modest prevention power" against the common cold.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) says that when taken daily, vitamin C has been shown to shorten the average duration of a cold by eight percent in adults and 14 percent in children. People who began taking vitamin C when their colds began saw no such improvements.

However, as we recently explained, vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can prevent oxidative stress on our cells, including immune cells.

"It also works synergistically with other antioxidants, such as Vitamin E, by regenerating their active forms, thus boosting the body’s overall antioxidant capacity," Charles K. Sonaliya, MD, a primary care physician with Inspira Health, told Best Life.

RELATED: 12 Vitamin C-Rich Foods to Keep You From Getting Sick, According to Doctors.

​6. Ginseng


Close up view of young woman holding ginseng vitamins and minerals pills in hand with capsule bottle on table. High angle view

Ginseng may be another unsung hero when it comes to immunity.

As Best Life previously reported, "Taking a daily Asian ginseng supplement may boost your immune system and help your body fight off viral respiratory infections such as colds and flu."

A 2021 study published in the journal Molecules found that ginseng increases the number of immune cells in the body and boosts the efficacy of flu vaccines.

​7. Probiotics


Probiotics Supplements

Probiotics are widely known to help combat general gastrointestinal symptoms such as gas, bloating, and constipation. Now, researchers are also investigating their effect on the immune system.

"The gastrointestinal tract is one of the most microbiologically active ecosystems that plays a crucial role in the working of the mucosal immune system (MIS)," explains a 2019 study published in the medical journal Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism. "In this ecosystem, the consumed probiotics stimulate the immune system and induce a network of signals mediated by the whole bacteria or their cell wall structure."

Probiotic-rich foods such as kimchi, sauerkraut, and yogurt offer many of the same benefits as supplements.

Of course, it's important to note that supplements don't cure illnesses. And before taking any new vitamin or supplement, always speak with your healthcare provider, as they can have certain side effects or interact with other supplements or medications.


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