Boosting your immune system

Cold and flu season is upon us. I have always thought it better to be proactive and preventative rather than spend the next few months in the doctor's office taking unnecessary antibiotics.

A good probiotic is a must. Did you know 80% of our immune system is formed in our gut? Probiotics are the good bacteria. We have them in our bodies, but when illness strikes, the bad guys take over. You can get probiotics at any grocery store: HEB, Whole Foods, Central Market, People's Pharmacy, etc. I also give it to my kids in powdered form mixed in apple sauce. You want a high potency probiotic with a variety of strains.

According to Dr. Mercola, "Total health begins in the gut, so if your GI tract is not in optimal health, then your overall health will be compromised."

Interestingly enough, Dr. M also states the following as essential components of staying healthy:

• avoid sugars, sweets, candies, cookies, etc.- sugar impairs your immune system
• avoid stress
• get plenty of sleep
• frequent handwashing (duh)

So if you are following a Paleo/zone diet along with the prescribed 9 hours of sleep, all you have to worry about is...washing your hands ?! I think you can handle that.

For more great info, make sure to visit Dr. Mercola's site.