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Understanding Your Immune System and How it Affects Your Health The immune system is responsible for protecting the body against infection. Its major components include lymph nodes, bone marrow, spleen, thymus gland and tonsils (if you still have them). There are two types of immunity present in our bodies: innate and adaptive. Innate immunity is present at birth and provides an initial barrier against microorganisms. You acquire adaptive immunity later in life, such as after fighting off an infection. The name says it all: Adaptive immunity "remembers" these invaders and adapts to recognize and ward them off again should they recur. According to the National Institutes of Health, flu outbreaks usually begin suddenly and occur mainly in the late fall and winter. It can spread through communities, creating an epidemic. During the epidemic, the number of cases peaks in about 3 weeks and subsides after another 3 or 4 weeks. Half of the population of a community may be affected. Because schools are an excellent place for flu viruses to attack and spread, families with school-age children have more infections than other families, with an average of one-third of the family members infected each year. You'll know if you have the flu versus a cold because like a cold, the flu gives you a sore throat and a stuffy nose. But the flu also brings with it body aches, chills and usually a fever.

	Maintaining a strong and healthy immune system is more vital than ever due to the growing risk of exposure to dangerous bacterial and viral infections
	Vitacost has chosen top selling and top rated products, listed on this page, that are backed by science to promote the strength and health of your immune system
	Vitacost also strongly recommends that you reduce and/or eliminate consumption of high fructose corn syrup (soda), sugar and fried foods which weaken your immunity, while you simultaneously increase consumption of healthy nuts, extra virgin olive oil, fish oil, blueberries and other healthy foods proven to promote good health
	Last but not least, Vitacost strongly suggests that you choose one of the superior quality NSI Synergy multi-vitamins. Each NSI Synergy multi-vitamin provides higher and more effective forms and levels of vitamin D3, vitamin C, selenium, zinc and numerous other nutrients that fortify immune function and promote overall good health.

7 Tips for Fending Off Colds & Flu

	Avoid direct contact with individuals experiencing symptoms. Guard against harmful airborne bacteria and protect against viruses with the use of a high quality face mask.
	Wash hands frequently with soap and hot water for at least 15 seconds.
	Use natural hand sanitizers and wipes to help keep hands germs free when soap and water is not an option.
	Get adequate bed rest, at least 6 to 8 hours each night. Taking a supplement like NSI Melatonin may support healthy sleep.
	Maintain a healthy immune system by drinking enough fluids (1-2 quarts daily, especially water); consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, while avoiding sugar, fructose and simple carbohydrates; and not smoking.
	Add high quality vitamins and supplements to your daily regimen to help boost immune function.
	When someone coughs or sneezes, the billions of airborne germs can stay in the air for up to 20 minutes. Use a state-of-the-art air purifier with a HEPA filter to remove airborne germs from your home and office. The following are the best rated air filters out of hundreds Vitacost has carefully chosen for their CADR ratings and proven technology at the best value: Blueair Hepasilent™ 610B Air Purifier Plus Free Shipping! -- 1 Unit Rabbit Air BioGS™ SPA-582A Ultra Quiet Air Purifier Plus Limited Time Offer - Get This Unit For $369! Silver -- 1 Unit Rabbit Air BioGS™ SPA-421A Ultra Quiet Air Purifier Silver Plus Limited Time Offer - Get This Unit For $299! -- 1 Unit Winix Plasma 9000 Five-Stage Air Purification System Plus Free Shipping! -- 1 Unit Blueair Hepasilent™ 610B Air Purifier Plus Free Shipping! -- 1 Unit

Facts About Popular Immune-Enhancing Nutrients: Acidophilus, which is found both as a supplement and in foods such as yogurt, helps the body to fight both bacterial infections and digestive issues. Vitamin A helps to strengthen skin and mucous membranes, to help prevent germs from penetrating. Vitamin C acts as an antiviral agent, elevating the body's interferon levels. Even taken in small amounts, it appears to reduce the duration and severity of illnesses. NSI's Advan-C™ is specially formulated to supply optimal amounts of Vitamin C to support a healthy immune system. Zinc supplements appear to increase immune response. Taking Zinc lozenges when a cold starts may shorten the duration and severity of an infection. Astragalus is an herb that may promote immune function.
Green Tea has antibacterial properties and helps stimulate the production of immune cells. Mushrooms contain compounds known as alpha- and beta-glucans, which may have positive effects in enhancing immune function in humans, including promoting healthier T-cells and natural killer (NK) cells. For more information about immune system health, please visit our Health Notes Encyclopedia.

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