This time of year is rough on most of us, but for many, suffering from low immunity, warding off all of the cold and flu germs is nearly impossible. . .

Here are some indicators that you might have low immunity:

• More than 2 colds per year
  
• Constant fatigue, tiredness over a 6 month period
  
• Insomnia
  
• Fungal infections
  
• Bacterial infections
  
• Allergies
  
• Benign growths
  
• Vitamin D Levels down
  
• Swollen lymph glands
  

A low immune function refers to an under-active and poor performing immune system.  The immune system’s primary function is to protect the body against fungus, yeast, bacteria, and virus invaders.  Support and enhancement of the immune system is the most important step in achieving resistance to the flu and cold season.  

And don't forget, as I mentioned in my last blog, avoid sugar.  Sugar can drop the immune system by 50% within 2 hours of consuming and last up to 5 hours.  Also, get plenty of sleep. Your adrenal glands need time to reset, a minimum of 6 hours every night for adults and more for children and teens.

Check out this list of suggested supplements to help you get through the cold and flu season!

Fall is famous for being the season for colds and flu. Getting sick in the fall can set up your immune system to struggle all winter. The immune system, once weakened, has to spend the winter months catching up and rebuilding. Being prepared to fight through the fall cold and flu season will help set up your immune system, ensuring it’s better able to fight the winter flu season. 

Although last season, due to the mild temperatures, had a later and milder flu season, don’t expect the same luxury this year! According to the Farmer's Almanac, Indiana weather for the winter of 2013 is expected to range from colder than normal, with mixed sleet, snow and rain in the central and southern regions to cold and snowy in the central to northern regions.

It’s too early to predict the exact virus strains that will be predominant this year or the severity of this flu cold season, but one fact remains unchanged; flu and colds are viral based. The virus has a 2-3 day incubation period but symptoms and the active virus can last up to 10-14 days.  Prevention and early care are the best measures for handling the common flu and cold season.   

Prevention means early care when symptoms first appear:

• Keep hydrated
  
• Keep sinus irrigated by using a netti pot with colloidal silver and/or sinus salts
  
• Avoid sugar. Sugar can drop the immune system by 50% within 2 hours of consuming and last up to 5 hours.
  
• Never underestimate the power of REST
  
• Garlic tea
  
• Mustard pack

Don’t forget to stock up this month on our Cold/Flu products – 20% October ONLY!