As we transition from fall into winter we lose our sunlight and Vitamin D. We also see more children`s immune system`s becoming compromised at our office at the Semiahmoo Wellness Center. Whether it is because they are staying up late doing homework, have several sport practices per week, or like my grade 12 daughter trying to cramp everything she can in her final year at high school. Parent`s rather than waiting until they start exhibiting the flu or a cold why not be proactive with boosting their immune systems now. Their are many strategies that you may find helpful. Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Astragalus. Zinc, and Echinacea are all products that can help improve your immune system to assist in preventing the common cold or flu. Honey, garlic, and ginger are staples of cold treatment in Ayurvedic medicine along with black pepper, cinnamon and turmeric. Turmeric is a great anti-inflammatory.Ginger has been used for over 4000 years in Asia and research shows it to relieve inflammation, fever and muscle and joint pain.Grated ginger root with hot water and honey is great to warm up the insides from the chills that accompany the flu. Food has for centuries been used as our Pharmacy by many cultures. So simple yet very effective. These can be purchased at most grocery stores, health food stores and at your naturopathic doctors`office.