Turn on the Humidifier BEFORE you catch the flu!

Moms all over the country turn on the humidifier when the kids are sick with colds and flu, but new research indicates that using it before anyone gets sick may a preventative.

And if someone in the house does have the flu... get that moist air going for the rest of the family!

Scientists have long known that flu spreads better in dry air - and dry air is exactly what winter brings us.

It turns out that relative humidity is a different thing than absolute humidity, so while hot summer air may seem drier, it can hold more water than cold winter air. 30% relative humidity in summer can equal 60% relative humidity in winter - meaning each holds an equal volume of water. Who knew?

Grandma used to keep a kettle of water on the stove in winter to keep the air in the house moist - perhaps because it made the temperature in the house feel more comfortable and helped alleviate that "winter dry skin" syndrome. But perhaps she instinctively knew something we've since forgotten - flu bugs thrive in dry air.

So if you have a wood stove, put the tea kettle on it and remember to fill it regularly. Otherwise, turn on the humidifier.

Do be careful not to overdo it - mold can be an even more serious problem than the flu.

Cold and Flu Season is coming, eat your Vitamin C

Just about everyone thinks first of oranges for a boost in vitamin C - and oranges are good, as are all citrus fruits. But a couple of other food choices are even better.

For instance, just one cup of green pepper will give you 3 times the amount of vitamin C needed for an adult - and an adult actually needs more vitamin C than do children. Other smart choices are broccoli and strawberries - and all dark green leafy vegetables.

The trend toward processed foods and limited fresh fruits and vegetables poses a real threat to families across the U.S. - so make the switch to wholesome foods and help your family stay healthy this winter.

Did you know...? Lack of Vitamin C can cause a condition known as scurvy - it used to be a real threat to sailors who were at sea for months and deprived of fresh foods. The condition, which causes muscle weakness and bleeding gums, could render an entire crew useless. To avoid scurvy, British sailors began stocking their holds with limes, and thus became known as "Limeys."