By Dr. Jillian Finker

It’s important to ensure that we support our bodies as we transition from the relaxing summer

months to the daily stress of returning to school. Taking care of ourselves is crucial during this

time—regardless of our role as parents, teachers or children. Here are a few tips to stay healthy:

-Supplement with vitamin D: With more time spent indoors, taking vitamin D daily is

important. Getting our vitamin D levels tested, and keeping them optimal, will help maintain a

strong immune system.

-Eat real food: Whenever possible eat real, unprocessed, nutrient-rich foods. Avoid processed

foods including unhealthy school lunches and fast food, as they deplete the body of energy and

can lower the immune system.

-Supplement with vitamin C, elderberry and zinc: Vitamin C is crucial for this time of year to

help protect us from getting sick. Elderberry and zinc are additional supplements that can help

prevent school absences and parents from missing work.

-Promote good sleep habits: We can get in the habit of practicing good sleep hygiene by getting

up early a week before school starts. This will encourage our bodies to get to bed earlier each

night. Once we’re tired, we can create a cool, dark sleep environment. A good night’s sleep in a

dark bedroom increases melatonin levels, which helps to support the immune system.

If we find ourselves getting sick on a regular basis, our immune system may need additional

support. Being under a natural doctor’s care can help boost our immunity and keep nasty

illnesses at bay.

Dr. Jillian Finker, ND, CNS, and author of It's About Wellness, Naturally, is the founder of

Finker Wellness, located at 2308 Bellmore Ave. in Bellmore, NY. For more information, call

516-765-3272 or visit DrFinker.com.