Six reasons you might catch a virus

Why am I always ill? | Coughs, colds and viruses | Always rundown

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1. You sleep badly

People who get less than 7 hours of sleep per night are 3 times as likely to be hit by a cold, according to recent research.

Kathleen McGrath suggests that we turn the heating down during the winter months to improve our shut-eye. 'Sleeping in a cooler room will help you fall asleep. You basically want to reduce your body's core temperature by about half a degree - in much the same way that animals do when they hibernate.'

But sleep problems aren't just associated with the common cold, either. 'The health authorities in America have identified that sleep apnoea problems are causing the country millions and millions of dollars,' reveals Kathleen. 'Sleep apnoea is more common in patients with high blood pressure, diabetes or heart disease.'

We suggest: Follow our tips for better sleep
Find out more: All the facts about insomnia

2. You expect to get a cold

Some people are naturally very downbeat and negative and are more likely to complain about feeling rundown.

'Doctors call these patients TATTs - Tired All The Time,' says Chris Steele. 'Your mental attitude is definitely a factor when it comes to your health. Those people who aren't positive thinkers or Doers will be more likely to fall ill.'

And there are studies to back this up. A study carried out by researchers at Carnegie Mellon University discovered that people with positive outlooks reported fewer cold symptoms and were more resistant to developing an upper respiratory illness.

And it's not just colds that benefit from the right mental attitude. 'Research has shown that after a heart attack, positive thinkers do much better than people who think negatively,' says Dr Chris. 'How we think can affect our body's health, so try to think positive thoughts.'

We suggest: Smile regularly with our happiness top tips
Find out more: The health benefits of laughter

By Rob Mansfield