Why is it that some people get sick while others don't even when they're exposed at the same time? One definate factor is the condition of each individual's immune system. Our immune system is perfectly designed to safeguard us from possible infection and disease. If it's working, we rarely get sick or when we do, we recover quickly. If it's not working, we get repeated infections (colds, sinus infections, flus, etc.), may have rampant allergies, or could have autoimmune disorders such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and others.

Taking care of the immune system also helps the body in general. Ways include: eating a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water, eliminating sugar (sugar feeds viruses and bacteria), getting exercise and regular massage (lymph can only move if the adjoining muscles are moving), getting plenty of sleep, reducing caffeine, quitting alcohol and smoking, and taking supplements (such as Vitamin C, zinc lozenges, essential fatty acids, and immune-enhancing herbs).

Remember when your grandmother told you to lightly tap your upper chest during cold and flu season? They did this for good reason - it helps the Thymus (an essential gland for the immune system).

Fostering a positive mental attitude is another way to help the immune system. If we're stressed and afraid of getting sick, we close down, literally. Circulation slows. Fear brings on the very factors that make us more susceptible to infection and illness.

As our country shores up its homeland defense, we should also shore up our individual defenses by giving our immune system what it needs to work well.