Is there any way I can avoid getting colds and other sicknesees. I've tried eating right, but every fall XC season and spring track season I get a really bad cold that takes me out a week. I usually take good care of myself and take vitamins, but are there any other things I can do to stay heatly? It's really annoying seeing the doctor the same time every year for the same thing...Thanks
Try getting at least 8 hours of sleep a night and do not over train. Do all the things that would seem to make the immune system stronger. Wash your hands a lot and keep them away from your face, stay away from sick people, stay hydrated all the time. When you get sick take off right away. If you nipp it early it might save you from trying to run through it and prolonging it and your quality training, whats a day or two off, not really much if you need it.
Colds ... wash your hands religously and keep them out of your nose, mouth, eyes and ears.
Flu ... avoid people with it ... kinda hard to do unless you are a hermit.
John Doe gave some good advice as well.
I had a lot of problems with Cold and Flu until I changed my diet, I now avoid yeast and bread products which have a high salt content which affects your ability to absorb iron from your food, making you more susceptible to illness, I used to get sore throats about every three/four weeks, but I haven't had one for a year now. I have also reduced my intake of potatoes and wheat products, eating more rice and corn and also avoiding soft fruits , the acidic nature of these can affect your stomachs absorbtion of vitamins and minerals.