With the winter season underway, the Dallas County Health Department discusses ways residents can boost their immune system.

Community Health Educator Natalie Del Vecchio says that while there aren’t proven ways to make your immune system completely invincible, research shows that healthy lifestyle habits can help you avoid being sick and also to recover quicker.

She recommends residents get between seven to nine hours of sleep each night, manage stress, stay active for 2 ½ hours each week and wash their hands.

Del Vecchio details the importance of eating a balanced diet with fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and foods that are rich in Vitamin C, D and zinc.

She adds that residents should also stay hydrated and get some fresh air when possible.