Building and maintaining a healthy immune system is an ongoing process that takes place on a daily basis throughout the year. Following is a list of the top 3 things to help you build and maintain a strong, healthy immune system - so you don't catch colds, flu or other viruses and infections in the first place:

~ #1 ~
*Eat for Health* - Never underestimate the relationship between what you eat and your state of health - it is everything (or very close). Everything you consume ends up, to some degree or another, in your bloodstream, bathing each and every cell and organ of your body. Thus, you are creating your biochemistry on a daily basis with every food you eat and every beverage you drink. If you want a consistently strong, healthy immune system, you must consume foods on a DAILY basis that nourish and strengthen your body and immune system and avoid (or eliminate) foods that weaken your body and immune system.

If you find this a formidable task or are not sure what/how to Eat for Health, you may consider taking the "Eating for Health" class (see Schedule of Classes), checking into the Plant Based Nutrition Program and/or nutritional consulting for some assistance - http://wellnesscoaching.com/shop/cart/system.htm.

In the meantime, here is a short list to keep in mind.

-- Immune-weakening foods: caffiene, alcohol, sugar, white refined flour, processed foods (especially those containing chemical additives), non-organic meats/fish/poultry/dairy products (most of these contain harmful growth hormones and antibiotics), any food to which you are sensitive or have an allergy.

-- Immune-strengthening foods: fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, organic meats/fish/poultry/, green foods - http://wellnesscoaching.com/learn/eat4health/greenfood.htm

~ #2 ~
*Avoid Toxic Household Chemicals* - Similar to #1, any toxic chemicals you are breathing in or absorbing through the skin are best avoided because they, like food, eventually end up in the blood stream and are damaging to the body and your immune system. This would include toxic household cleaning products, laundry detergents, shampoos, body lotions, etc. It is important to know that 60% of what you put on your skin is absorbed into the body! Use safe, natural products whenever possible. They are now widely available at super markets, health food stores and through independent distributors - http://wellnesscoaching.com/shop/skincare.htm

~ #3 ~
*Make use of safe and natural herbal formulas* - If you have an acute problem, generally weakened immune system, or you would just like a little extra insurance, you may like to take advantage of the many safe and natural herbal formulas available to boost your immune system.

My top 3 favorites:
*ImmuneTune* (by Young Living Essential Oils - http://wellnesscoaching.com/shop/essoils.htm)
*Immune Plus* (by Organic by Nature - http://wellnesscoaching.com/shop/cart/immuneplus.htm)
*Deep Health Builder* (by Herbs, Etc. - avail. at health food stores)

Of course it goes without saying that in addition to the recommendations above, healthy lifestyle practices are also key. Exercising regularly, minimizing stress, doing what you love, etc., in addition to these top 3 recommendations, will keep your immune system healthy and strong even when those around you are dropping like flies.

Until next time, remember - health care is self care and be well...

Kel