Accompanied by a chorus of coughs and sniffles, the winter season has arrived in the Issaquah area.

“Protecting your health during this year’s winter season should be a top priority for local residents,” said Joel Gurzinsky, district store manager for The Vitamin Shoppe in Issaquah.

“As a community, many of our customers are being proactive in boosting their immune systems this time of year.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), every year in the United States, an average of five to 20 percent of the population gets the flu.

Furthermore, more than 200,000 people are eventually hospitalized for flu-related complications, while a remarkable 36,000 people die from flu-related causes.

Gurzinsky notes that, according to CDC, there are some excellent ways to help prevent the seasonal flu. This includes getting a seasonal flu shot, taking everyday precautions such as washing hands often with soap and water, as well as covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze.

“In addition to moderate exercise and adequate rest, supplementation is another component people use to help keep their bodies strong during flu season,” said Gurzinsky, who finds the following to be the most popular items purchased at the store by customers who are looking for immunesupport. These include:

• Probiotics: According to Dave Foreman, naturopathic doctor and herbal pharmacist, probiotics improve digestive health, but can also help improve

your immunity.

• Garlic: Used for centuries, garlic contains sulfur, which is believed to have beneficial properties. Many people choose to eat raw garlic, use a liquid garlic extract, or garlic capsules in order to increase their garlic intake.

• Homeopathic products: A correctly-chosen remedy can work gently and efficiently to relieve discomfort and help the body heal itself without toxicity or side-effects.

• Many vitamins, including C, are antioxidants and will protect cells — including those of your immune system — from damage by toxins in the environment.

“As always, checking with a health provider before starting supplementation is a wise choice,” Gurzinsky said. “Proper supplementation can help support immune health. And, of course, in order for these products to be effective, they must be taken as directed.”

Gurzinsky adds that if Issaquah-area residents begin to experience common flu symptoms, such as high fever, headache, sore throat, and/or muscle aches, they should consult with their physician. If it is determined that you have the flu, the CDC advises that you avoid contact with co-workers, friends and family members.

For more information, visit The Vitamin Shoppe in Issaquah, located at 6150 E. Lake Sammamish Pkwy.