Sleep

If you can’t resist that late-night talk show or find yourself tossing and turning in bed, you’re more likely to get sick this winter. That’s because a strong immune system depends on getting enough sleep.

Diet

Sugary treats and convenience foods seem like a good idea when you’re choosing them, but they may be inviting a cold or the flu. Some foods actually feed bad bacteria and viruses, while other foods protect you from illness. You’ll have fewer sick days when you avoid the bad and embrace the good.

Supplements

Chances are, you are not getting all the important nutrients you need to maintain a strong immune system. Our lifestyles and food supply make it nearly impossible to acquire all of the necessary vitamins and minerals necessary to fight-off invading bacteria and viruses.

Stress

Traffic, the empty nest and an impossible-to-please boss… if you’re not careful, your response to these things can make you sick. Negative thoughts and feelings have a devastating impact on your body’s ability to fight disease. But you can learn to properly deal with stress.

Exercise

If you spend most of your life sitting on your duff, you’re setting yourself up for a world of hurt this cold and flu season. That’s because your body requires movement in order for your immune system to work properly. Exercise strengthens your body’s ability to fend-off attacks by unhealthy bacteria and viruses.