No one wants to get socked with colds or the flu, but for allergy and asthma sufferers, winter time illnesses can lead to complications like prolonged respiratory problems or sinus infections. In addition to getting flu shots, and the fundamental advice of getting plenty of exercise and rest, following are some suggestions from Fox Health contributor and children's health and green living expert Deirdre Imus:

• Wash hands frequently. Soap and water are best for warding off the flu and colds, but alcohol-free hand sanitizers are your next best bet when you can't get to a sink.

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

• Eat healthfully, including many organic whole foods. Eat as many fresh fruits and vegetables as you can work into your diet.

• Take your vitamins. Vitamins C and D help boost the immune system and are particularly useful in combating colds and the flu. Furthermore, vitamin D deficiency, found in about 70 of children, has been linked to an increased risk of respiratory tract infections.

• Probiotics improve digestive function and reduce fever, runny nose, and cough when used every day for six months.

• Antioxidants, found in many fruits and vegetables, also boost the immune system.

• Tea with lemon, cayenne pepper, and garlic offers a soothing remedy for coughs and sore throats.

Also remember to have your humidifiers out and ready to help alleviate the dryness caused by forced air heating systems and to ease nighttime congestion.

We all know that "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" so putting these hints into practice early this season may save you and your family from the sickness of the season and the aggravated respiratory symptoms that go along with it.

Image courtesy of muanacongo.com.