Preventing Illness In A Down Economy

Though the economy may be having a negative impact on many bank accounts, it may also be benefiting many people's health, as some are taking steps to try and prevent getting sick.

For a lot of you, protecting yourselves this flu season goes beyond a vaccine. It involves vitamins and an overall healthy lifestyle.  People in Texoma are not only trying to stay well, but out of the doctor's office.

Across the nation, vitamin sales have surged since the stock market sank. The same is true for Abner's Nutrition Center in Wichita Falls.

"I can see it. People who I don't think would normally come in here are coming in," said owner Barbara Nobel.

She  said it's more than just vitamins boosting her business, it's the desire for an overall healthy lifestyle. She said this year's active flu season also has customers pouring through the door.

"The mothers are coming in saying they want to give their child something that can help prevent them from getting sick," Nobel said. 

If an extra bottle of vitamins is going to keep the kids well and prevent big medical bills, Nobel said it's well worth it. But whether trying to prevent before illness strikes, or soften the blow, she said vitamins are by no means a substitute for medication or traditional health care.

Nobel said, "You may end up getting sick but hopefully if you're more healthy and have good nutrition in your body you're going to be able to fight it much easier. You're not going to get as sick as you would have."

If you're interested in trying alternatives from nutrition stores Nobel suggests always first checking with your doctor or pharmacists about whether it will interfere with your medications.

The nutrition industry has accounted for as much as 23 billion dollars in domestic sales annually in recent years. For more information on products offered at Abner's Nutrition Center click here.