Yuma, Arizona (NAPSI) - How sweet it isn’t: One of the least healthful parts of the American diet, nutritionists say, is refined sugar, and avoiding it is nearly impossible, but there are steps you can take.

Phoenix, Arizona (NAPSI) - The common cold is nothing to sneeze at. Americans in general suffer nearly a billion colds a year and, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 22 million school days are lost each year due to colds.

What You Can Do

Fortunately, following a few simple tips can help boost your immunity:

• Include vitamin C: From citrus to broccoli, many fruits and vegetables offer high levels of this necessary nutrient.

• Take a supplement: Multi-vitamins and probiotics can help you get more of what might be missing from your diet.

• Stay hydrated: Drinking extra fluids—especially lots of water—helps prevent dehydration caused by cold symptoms.

• Eat foods that are high in essential omega-3 fatty acids, such as chia seeds or ground flaxseeds. Sprinkle them on top of a salad or blend them into your favorite smoothie.

If you’ve never had chia, try this Chia Pudding recipe from Whole Foods Market. It can be a delicious way to introduce it to your diet.

Chia Pudding
(serves 6)

⅔ cup chia seeds

2 cups unsweetened

365 Everyday Value almondmilk or soymilk

½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

2 tablespoons currants or chopped dried figs or dates (or fruit of choice)

2 tablespoons unsweetened coconut flakes

Put chia seeds, almondmilk and vanilla in a 1-quart glass jar with a lid. Tighten the lid and shake well to thoroughly combine. Or, stir together seeds, almondmilk and vanilla in a bowl. Refrigerate overnight. When ready to serve, stir well. Spoon into bowls and top with fruit and coconut.

Learn More

For further facts, tips and recipe ideas, visit www.WholeFoodsMarket.com.

Yuma, Arizona (NAPSI) - You or someone you care about probably has a food allergy or sensitivity. More than 15 million Americans and nearly one in every 13 children - have food allergies, and the numbers only continue to rise, according to Food Allergy Research and Education.

Seattle, Washington (NAPSI) - The effort to combat AIDS has gotten a hand and some wheels.

Yuma, Arizona (NAPSI) - Should you be taking the medications you’re taking? If you’re 65 or older, that’s an important question to ask yourself and your healthcare provider. Why?

Phoenix, Arizona (NAPSI) - As parents and caregivers, we all want our kids to thrive. We want them to eat healthier and be more physically active.

Dallas, Texas (NAPSI) - There is good news for the estimated 66 million Americans who have become a caregiver for a loved one and the 43.5 million of those who provide care to someone over the age of 50.