Vitamin D Supplements

There are several things you can do to lower your risk of becoming ill.

Eating Right
Eat the right kinds of food and limit the amount of sugar. Research has shown certain foods added to your diet may help build the immune system.

Yogurt contain probiotics that help support the immune system
Garlic contains allicin, a potent bacteria fighter
Black Tea or Green Tea to help produce more interferon, a protein that battles cold and flu infections
Mushrooms such as shiitake, maitake and reishi contain immune-boosting chemicals
Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel and herring contain omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D and selenium that benefit the immune system

Protect Against Germs
The best defense against germs and bacteria that cause viruses is to protect yourself at all times.

Wash hands often and well with soap and water for at least one minute or use a hand sanitizer gel if no sink is available, like at the grocery store.
Don't share toothpaste tubes with anyone
Use paper towels instead of cloth towels at home in the kitchen and bathrooms
Spray or wipe disinfectant everywhere - phone, keyboard, desktop, door handles, weights, remote controls, etc.
Use gloves if possible when pressing buttons on ATM machines and the like
Keep a 5 feet away from anyone who is coughing or sneezing

Take Nutritional Supplements
Even if you don't normally take vitamins or supplements of any kind, now is the time to make an exception.

Omega-3 fatty acids, especially if you do not like fatty fish
Vitamin D3 supplement - people who took 2,000 IU of vitamin D daily had 70% fewer colds and flu, according to a 3 year study published in Epidemiology and Infection. This time of year its almost impossible to get enough vitamin D from the sun and food just doesn't have enough.
Vitamin C
Echinacea
Zinc taken at the very start of a cold may help shorten the duration

Play Hard - Then Rest
Both exercise and sleep will help boost the immune system, along with a little "me" time.

20 or 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day will help increase blood flow, which speeds nutrient absorption and decreases stress hormones, which dampen immune response.
Get at least 7 hours of sleep every night. Lake of sleep depresses the immune system making your more susceptible to bacteria that causes viruses
Try Yoga or Tai chi for relaxation and exercise.
Don't hide out - be social. People who are socially active get fewer colds because they tend to be more positive and happier which also strengthen immunity.

Drink plenty of water! Take a water bottle wherever you go - shopping, walking, or socializing.

Happy, Healthy Holidays to you and your family and best wishes for the New Year!