Now that the oppressive heat of summer is over and the kids are back at school, it's time to prepare for cold and flu season. Because prevention is preferable to cure, the Healthy Living department at Central Market has a full line of antioxidants and probiotics to help boost your body's autoimmune system. Antioxidant options include oil of oregano, echinacea, olive leaf and zinc lozenges. Source Naturals Wellness Formula is a powerful combination of vitamins, minerals and herbs designed to boost immunity. Probiotic acidophilus is available in capsules and liquids in adult, children's and infant strengths. Many require refrigeration for maximum potency, but there are also shelf-stable forms that don't require refrigeration if you need an immune boost on the go.

 If you're already suffering from flu symptoms, elderberry extract can bring you relief. Researchers from the Florida-based Herbal Science Group LLC, writing in the July 2009 issue of the journal Phytochemistry, reported that flavonoids from elderberry extract bind with H1N1 (swine flu) virus, blocking its ability to infect a host. They compared the elderberry flavonoids' antiviral action with those of Tamiflu and Amantadine. Healthy Living has a number of products containing elderberry extract, including New Chapter Immunity Take Care, Nature's Way Sambucus, Dr. Dunner Sambu Guard and Gaia Black Elderberry Syrup.

This year as always, a big part of avoiding infection – and preventing colds and flu from spreading – is common sense. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water (and dry them thoroughly), particularly before eating. Cover your sneezes with a sleeve (not your hand). Courtesy is contagious, and so are colds and flu! Healthy Living also has a full line of liquid hand sanitizers and hand sanitizing wipes. Ask a Healthy Living partner to show you some ways to protect yourself and your family!

Ken Shimamoto, Fort Worth Healthy Living Partner