Germs are all around us, all the time; only a good immune system stands between you and a multitude of illnesses. With flu season approaching, it’s important to know the basics of keeping yourself healthy.

Get enough sleep. If you are depriving your body of rest, you’ll have a harder time fighting off infection. If the traditional 8 hours of sleep a night is too difficult with your schedule, be sure to get regular sleep – that is, go to bed at the same time every night and get up at the same time every morning. Also, if you feel like you are coming down with something, be sure to stock up on sleep – sometimes, a major block of extra sleep is all your body needs to kick a bug.

Eat right. Without the proper diet, your body may not be well-equipped to fight disease. It’s important that your body get the vitamins and minerals it requires. Although taking a multivitamin every day is one option, the best way to supply your body with sufficient nutrients is to eat healthful foods. You can use the Food Pyramid as a guide, but generally, shopping the perimeter of the store – where all the fresh foods are – will ensure that you’re getting unprocessed, nutrient-rich food.

Be clean. Many places – such as schools, other public places, and objects like pay phones, door handles, and elevator buttons – are breeding grounds for germs. Be sure to wash your hands frequently when out and about, especially when around someone who is sick.

Get your checkups. Although it’s easy to neglect the doctor’s office when you’re not sick, it’s also important to have your annual checkups. Vaccines and flu shots are especially important. Whenever possible, give your natural resources a little help in keeping you healthy.