Having just returned from an 8 day eastern caribbean cruise on the Carnival Breeze from the port in Miami, I was immediately questioned by family regarding the Norovirus outbreak that was all over the news.  Apparently a Royal Caribbean ship was just returning with 121 people from the Vision of the Seas that had contracted the Norovirus at the same time our ship was returning to port.  

Since the risk of stomach viruses are increased on a cruise ship, I took precautions for my family of five.  There are simple things you can do to decrease the risk of illness while on your cruise vacation.  First off, most cruise lines now offer hand sanitizers in main areas on the ship including all eating areas.  This was the case on the Carnival Breeze this March.  Make sure to take advantage of this option and be sure your children follow suit.  We also purchased Purell instant hand sanitizer for everyone in the family so hands could quickly be sanitized after touching public areas like railings going up and down the stairs.

Another important option is to strengthen your immune system by eating lots of antioxidants prior to and while on the cruise ship.  I made sure that my family including all of my children were eating XO Healthy Chocolate products.  XO Chocolate is a high antioxidant solution and I have no problem convincing my family to eat chocolate.  Simply eat three pieces of chocolate morning, mid day and evening to maximize the antioxidant benefits.

In the Huffington Post article Six Steps to beat stress and boost immunity, Leo Galland MD states “The leading cause of immune deficiency, worldwide and within the U.S., is poor nutrition. Study after study has found that vitamin and mineral supplements improve immune function among the elderly and among children with recurrent infections.”

Be sure to order Beyond Beauty Cream Anti-Aging Skin Care, XO Healthy Chocolate power squares, nuggets or Xobiotics for a high antioxidant option.  It is a great way to get your daily antioxidants.  Order now and save 20% and receive free shipping on your order at ColdPressedChocolate.com

I am Lynette Henk, XO Healthy Chocolate member and mom of three boys.  I can be reached directly at 941-216-5727, [email protected] or ColdPressedChocolate.com.