Many people think that it's normal to come down with an illness each year and, for some, two or three times a year. Yet researchers have proven that nutrition and lifestyle factors can boost your immune system. Learn how to build a kitchen pharmacy of whole foods, superfoods and nutrients to provide a stable foundation for your health. And when you're at an increased risk of infection, know what to do to derail a virus before it takes hold. Follow this immune-boosting roadmap to a healthier diet, making you less prone to viral infections and more resilient after an illness. In "Optimize Your Immune System," you'll read about the three phases of immune support.Phase I: Everyday immune strengthening and care Phase II: After exposure to an unhealthy person or environment Phase III: Immune-boosting support to prevent an illness when you feel like you're coming down with something For each of these phases, Marie Ruggles, M.S., R.D., C.N., C.D.E., draws upon over forty years of experience within the wellness arena. The book begins with her explaining how the immune system works and what it does. From there, she discusses the foods that help and hinder our immunity. She even gives a whole foods quick start guide for those who aren't too certain where to start. She also shares the concept of juice bathing, and how to use that to minimize the fuss and mess of juicing while maximizing its benefit. "Optimize Your Immune System" makes specific recommendations for how to fortify and stimulate your body's natural defenses using a simple kitchen pharmacy, no matter which phase of immune support you are facing. Diving deep, the book looks closely at whole foods, superfoods, nutrients and supplements, even giving specific product recommendations for those brands and products the author personally loves most. The final chapter of the book pulls everything together in an easy-to-reference format sharing phase-specific recommendations, as well as how to eat more nutritious foods even if you're on a limited budget. For those who are new to the subject of natural wellness, the book is easy-to-read and written in a friendly manner. Yet, for those who are already familiar with the topic, it proves to be a valuable reference guide as well.