Every year at this time, I write a column or two about how to avoid getting sick during cold and flu season, and for the most part, it works. But this year, flu season just keeps going. Over the weekend, I was happy to read that swine flu is on the decline. Good news! But people just keep getting sick. One of my missions in life is to help people get healthy, so let’s dig deeper into the subject.

One of my favorite immune support products is a fermented dried yeast that has been used in animal husbandry to reduce the need for antibiotics in cattle. Human studies have shown that in people exposed to this yeast, either breathing in a manufacturing facility or taking it orally, simply don’t get sick very often.

Another of my favorites is what I call my “red and green pills.” They consist of nothing other than cold-dried fruits and vegetables, which is strong testimony for the power of fruits and vegetables. If I am tired, I take extra. Remember that these supplements are in addition to eating six to eight servings of fresh, organic vegetables each day! It seems one cannot get enough vegetables!

I am a great fan of the ascorbic acid flush, especially during times of great stress (too much holiday shopping?). Do this at the first sign of illness.

#1. Purchase a powdered buffered ascorbic acid product. (I use a pharmaceutical grade product because it seems to give the best results.)

#2. Begin the flush process in the morning. Start by dissolving 2250 mg of ascorbic acid in water and drink one serving each hour of the day until you reach “flush level.” You will get extremely gassy before this so keep going until you get bowel activity.

#3. Make a record of how many doses it took to achieve bowel tolerance. Throughout the cold and flu season, keep dosing yourself just under this level.

#4. I suggest purchasing pH strips to keep track of your systemic pH during this time. You want to get your pH to slightly alkaline (from 7.0 to 7.5) measured in your first morning urine. If you become too alkaline, back off from the ascorbic acid because high alkalinity is as harmful as acidity.

Stress really affects immune function so make sure you get plenty of deep sleep in a pitch-dark room each night. Minimum eight hours is required.

Carol is a certified lifestyle educator at the offices of Dr. Alan Gruning in Fort Myers. She owns the Island Nutrition Center on Sanibel. She can be reached at 472-4499.