Relaxing with a cup of spiced orange and honey tea bolsters your defenses against viral invaders. The brew is rich in vitamin C, bioflavonoids, and antibacterial compounds that help prevent the shortening of telomeres, the protective caps on DNA strands by as much as 62%. And that’s key since studies show short telomeres are linked to weakened immune response. To get the benefits, simmer the peel from half a medium orange, 1/2 tsp. of chopped ginger, and 1 Tbs. of raw honey in 1 1/2 cups of hot water for 5 to 10 minutes, then enjoy.

The surprising secret to sailing through sick season? Giving your body’s pH levels a tune-up. Research shows half of post-menopausal women have pH levels that are too acidic, which can weaken the immune system. Luckily, it’s easy to check your pH with inexpensive urine or saliva test strips found in drug stores. The ideal reading is 6.4. If your reading is lower, which signifies high acidity, you can bring it back into balance with an acid-neutralizing sipper: Simply stir 1/4 tsp. of sea salt and 1/4 tsp. of cream of tartar into 4 oz. of water and drink daily.