It is essential to prevent the flu because it can cause several distressing symptoms. Like most diseases, boosting the immune system is one of the most effective ways to prevent flu. The immune system defends the body from harmful microbes such as virus and bacteria, which can cause diseases or infections. The body’s ability to guard against these invaders is called immunity. Strengthening one’s immunity is the most effective preventive measure against diseases, most especially flu. Below is a list of some recommendations which can help prevent flu infection by boosting the immune system: Proper Hygiene to prevent the flu: Flu is an extremely transmittable disease. It can be transmitted from person to person in many ways–inhalation droplets, direct transmission and indirect transmission –and thus, can be easily spread throughout a given population. A person can acquire the flu virus through the air that he/she breathes; but it is frequently transferred through close contact with an infected person or by touching inanimate objects that are contaminated by the flu virus. For this reason, some measures have been suggested by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) to prevent the occurrence of flu; these actions are as follows: frequent hand washing with antibacterial soap and water or with an antiseptic solution and the avoidance of touching face, eyes, nose and mouth especially in public areas.Healthy Diet: A complete food pyramid-based diet generally enhances the human health and resistance. Meats, poultry, dairy, fruits and vegetables (raised organically and chemical-free) are some of the best “immune-enhancing foods”. Consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables are especially important; they contain high quantities of antioxidants and vitamin C which are known to be immune-system boosters. Probiotic-rich foods also help the body fight off infections; and eating mushrooms have been proven to stimulate the immune system and enhance immune-competent cell activities. Coconut oil on the other hand contains lauric acid and monolaurin which have anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-protozoal properties and can destroy lipid-coated viruses such as influenza. Ample Sleep: Stable, ample sleep is important to a healthy and well functioning immune system. Proper rest gives the body time to restore injured tissues and renew energy stores. Research studies have made known that sleep influences a person’s hormonal balance, especially the hormones cortisol and melatonin. Having an ample amount of these hormones in the body is vital to a properly functioning immune system.Reduced Stress Levels is a great natural flu remedy: Almost all diseases can be associated to stress. Stress increases an individual’s risk to a wide range of illnesses including heart illnesses, cancer, lung ailments and mental illnesses. Excessive stress increases the risk for infection or viral and/or bacterial invasion as it causes damage to the body and weakens the immune system.