(NC) — Immunity is a "whole body" activity. Your skin, your mouth and your nose are just some of the entry points for an infinite number of possible attackers. Bacteria, viruses, mold, and other microbes are in our air and water. They can be on our food and are often spread by others who are unaware of the potential harm they are "sharing".

Boosting immunity is one of your very best health strategies at any age. Here are some key ways to protect yourself from infections and compromised immunity:

• Get a good night's sleep

•  Drink plenty of pure water

•  Eat a wide variety of colourful fruits and vegetables, for antioxidant support.

• Increase your intake of vitamin C daily; it is not stored in the body.

•  Avoid excessive amounts of processed foods, hydrogenated oils, sugar, and alcohol.

•  Exercise at least three times a week; daily is even better.

•  Increase your body's populations of health-supporting bacteria to fight bad bacteria; eat yogurt or take a complete Multi Strain probiotic supplement.

•  Take vitamin D supplements; reduced sun exposure means less vitamin D.

•  Echinacea, especially in a standardized form like EchinaMax or Cold-A-Tak, boosts immune function and can shorten the duration of an infection.

• Wash your hands frequently, especially if you are around children or people who have colds.

Save yourself downtime this fall and winter by bolstering your body's natural defence.