Oct. 23, 2001

COLLEGE STATION – With cases of anthrax in humans making the news, Americans are becoming more and more concerned about the possibilities of bioterrorism. And what has sometimes been called germ warfare – unleashing contagious diseases on the human population of a country – might be the most feared.

People are wondering how they can keep themselves and their loved ones safe from an enemy that can't be seen, smelled or tasted. Gas masks, antibiotics, stockpiled food and water and weapons – all these methods of protection seem to be impractical and limiting ... not to mention counterproductive and occasionally dangerous.

But one way to help keep the body's defenses in their best condition is to maintain a healthy immune system, said Dr. Sharon Robinson, Texas Cooperative Extension nutrition specialist. "A weakened immune system can more easily succumb to the consequences of infection," she said.

Robinson, along with Britta Thompson, Extension food and nutrition associate, offer the following suggestions to help combat illness of any description:

- Eat healthy. Vitamins, minerals and protein are required by the immune system in its fight against bacteria and viruses. Follow the Food Guide Pyramid for the best and most nutritious way to get vitamins and minerals in the daily diet. Individuals who may not be able to consume the optimum diet may need a vitamin/mineral supplement.

However, Robinson cautioned consumers: "Costly supplements marketed to boost immune function are often no more effective than lower-cost generic vitamins," she said. "Do not take more vitamins and minerals than are recommended. Your total vitamin and mineral intake should not exceed two to three times the daily value listed on the Nutrition Facts or Dietary Facts Label. Vitamins and minerals can be toxic at high levels."

- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Most experts recommend drinking eight glasses of fluids each day. Skin that is dry and cracked, or a mouth or eyes that are dry are more susceptible to infection.

- Wash hands. After being in public, using the bathroom and/or cooking or eating, clean hands are a must. Hand-washing helps prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses among groups of people in close contact, such as families or co-workers.

- Exercise each day. Daily physical activity helps keep the blood circulating the most efficiently, which brings nutrients to all cells of the body.

- Get plenty of good, restful sleep. The hours of sleep are when the body repairs and restores itself. A healthy immune system requires an adequate amount of sleep.

"Continue any treatment or medication that your doctor has prescribed," Robinson said. "The human body is marvelous; all of its parts and systems are related. Stay healthy by taking care of all of them."

For more information visit the Web site: http://fcs.tamu.edu/food_and_nutrition.htm

For articles concerning bioterrorism from the Working Group on Civilian Biodefense in the Journal of the American Medical Association, go to: http://jama.ama-assn.org/