Thailand holidays could be the answer to the winter blues by helping people to get the vitamin D that they need to stay happy and healthy.

This time of year means a lack of sunshine for most people, which can result in more colds and flu.

Supplements are one option favoured by many, but according to herbalist and nutritional therapist Andrew Johnson, going on a sunny holiday would be a "good thing" to do and would "support immunity enormously".

He added: "This time of year, if you had to do one thing, that would probably be one of the most important things to do."

In addition to physical health, Mr Johnson suggests people's moods are affected by the amount of vitamin D they get.

While getting the requisite vitamin D is important, it is also vital for sun-worshippers to protect their skin from harmful UV rays.

Bevis Man from the British Skin Foundation notes that children in particular can be vulnerable.

"We know that the majority of damage to the skin from sun exposure occurs before the age of 20 … so it makes sense that they get an appropriate amount of protection from sun damage through clothing and sunscreen use," he explained.