When researchers at Touro College in N.Y. City exposed a virus similar to the viral strains that cause the common old and flu to cinnamon extract, they discovered that the spice killed virtually all the viral strains after 10 minutes. While the study authors say mire research us needed to determine how the spice works, previous studies have shown that a compound in cinnamon called cinnamaldehyde has both antiviral and antibacterial properties. To help fend off colds and flu, this season the researchers suggest incorporating 1 to 2 Tbs. of the spice into your daily diet.

Long commutes in the car and hours sitting at a desk can bring hunched shoulders, which compress the intestines to cause GI symptoms like constipation. Plus, studies have shown that slouched sitting decreases how much air you can fit in your lungs by 30%, triggering fatigue. To make your work space posture-friendly: Place the computer screen 2 to 3 feet directly in front of you, with the top of the screen level with your eyes. This will make it easier to sit tall, with your ears in line over your shoulders and your shoulders over your hips.
In the car: Pull the seat close enough to the steering wheel that your elbows are bent at 90-degree angle, says Dr. Wilson, who also suggests placing a rolled towel between you and the seat back, just above the hips, to keep you comfortably erect.
-Fredrick Wilson, D.O. director of the Cleveland Clinic Center for Spine Health

A unique fiber found in oatmeal (beta-glucan) stimulates the production of white cells responsible for killing bacteria and other pathogens. This effect can strengthen the body’s natural defenses against cold and flu viruses by up to 750% according to experts at the University of Minnesota in St. Paul.

It is suggested to lighten up on sugar because too much of it is the top nutritional cause of cataracts. Excess sugars accumulate in the lens of the eye, causing swelling and eventually clouding.