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#Dr. Lauryn Lax
drlaurynlax · 5 years
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The Ultimate Supplement Guide: How Not to Waste Your Money
This supplement guide will provide reasons why you should take supplements regularly.
Go-To Supplement List
What are the best supplements to take? 
It’s a common question I am asked by clients, looking to maximize their health. 
Many people have no idea about what the best supplements are to take, so they simply consult Doctor Google for suggestions to “cure” a cold, allergies or constipation—only to find hundreds of different recommendations for products they should try. 
They order it. Take it, and…sometimes it works. Often times it doesn’t or they have no clue if it’s really making a difference at all. 
Be warned: NOT all supplements are created equal. 
If you’ve ever wondered if you’re wasting your money or not, look no further. In this article on the best supplements to take, we will review:
What Makes a Supplement “Bad” or Good in the First Place
The Worst Supplements (NOT to Take)
The Best Healing & Maintenance Supplements 
Bad vs. Good Supplements: The Supplement Guide
NOT ALL SUPPLEMENTS ARE CREATED EQUAL
The supplement industry is overwhelmingly filled with hundreds of thousands of products that are unregulated by the FDA. 
Americans spend more than $30 billion on supplements every year—from products on Amazon to diet shakes and bars and fitness enhancements—looking to enhance their health, see “fast results” or perhaps out-supplement the pizza and cocktails they’d prefer to eat instead. 
While some of these formulas are legit, a vast majority are NOT, and you may very well be pooping out those vitamins you spent $50 bucks on Amazon, or wondering if your supplements are actually working. 
Additionally, many vitamins and other supplements simply degrade and lose effectiveness when exposed to excessive heat, light, oxygen in the air, or humidity during shipping and processing alone. 
So should you even take supplements at all?!  Stick with me. 
There are definitely some legit formulas out there, BUT for starters, here’s what you should know about what NOT to take….
MOST SUPPLEMENTS DON’T WORK
Fish Oil Goes Rancid
The vast majority of fish oil supplements on shelves don’t contain the health benefits they claim (Wang et al, 2016) —as many of the formulas go “rancid” in high heat conditions. 
Vitamin D Marketing is Hype
That Vitamin D you’re taking may actually be toxic to your health. Especially if you actually aren’t deficient in the vitamin at all. Many people take the supplement for years after an initial diagnosis of “low Vitamin D”—only to later find out they are “overloaded” with it or their body didn’t actually need it in the first place (they were actually deficient in Parathyroid Hormone—not Vitamin D (Abrams et al, 2005). 
You Pee Out Your Multi-Vitamins
Multi-vitamins may make you FEEL “healthier” because you’re taking a pill with “everything” in it—but many of the nutrients are useless. For instance, Folic Acid in multi-vitamins is the non-absorbable version of Folate (Powers, 2007), and is toxic to your body (Troen et al, 2006). And calcium may  be doing your body more harm than good as it is related to increased risk for “calcification” of your arteries and blood vessels (Lutsey & Michos, 2013). As for the claims that you need a multi-vitamin to “prevent” disease? Bunk. A study (Neuhouser et al, 2009) of 160,000 women taking a multi-vitamin found that “multivitamins failed to prevent cancer, heart disease, and all causes of death for all women. Whether the women were healthy eaters or ate very few fruits and vegetables, the results were the same.”
Iron Supplements Are Dangerous
Low in iron? Your doc may tell you to take an iron supplement, however if you are actually low in Vitamin B or Vitamin A, you may actually NOT be deficient in iron, even if it shows up on your blood work (Allen, 2002) & (Bhardwaj et al, 2015). In addition, if you have digestive issues and low stomach acid, you’re more at risk for ALL nutrient deficiencies. Fix the gut health and you may see iron levels and other labels normalize. Taking iron supplements if unnecessary can send your iron levels overboard.
Most Probiotics Contain Probiotics You Don’t Need
Most supplemental probiotics contain lactic acid bacteria—strains of bacteria most human microbiomes are sufficient in (sometimes even “overgrown” with)—and we don’t need. In addition, lactic acid bacterial formulas have a greater risk of being destroyed during processing and as a result, by the time they get to the capsule or bottle, there’s barely any—if anything—left to house your gut.
A review of 7 studies with more than 1300 citations showed that the use of these popular lactic acid strains made no significant difference on the composition of fecal (poop) bacteria health (Kristensen et al, 2016). Another study showed that 15 out of 16 probiotics on shelves did not contain the probiotics they claimed on the label. (Lewis et al, 2016).
Many products make claims regarding the number of organisms in the product, but these typically refer to the numbers at the time of manufacture, which can be very different from the amount still viable at the time of purchase. Exposure to heat, moisture and oxygen can all negatively affect survival of probiotics. (Kolacek et al, 2017).
Your Protein Powder Doesn’t Really Have Protein
Your favorite protein powder may not actually have any of the protein the label claims at all. Many commercial products on shelves are stocked with additives, filler proteins and chemicals your body doesn’t recognize as “food” and that cause ill side effects—like “leaky gut,” bloating, and constipation. 
…Just to name a few studies.
THE WORST SUPPLEMENTS TO AVOID
Beyond the studies, revealing the downsides of some supplements, it’s also vital to recognize that even with “necessary” vitamins and minerals (such as Vitamin C if you catch a cold or digestive enzymes to ease digestion), NOT all formulas are the same. 
Avoid these 3 things:
Waxy, Shiny Capsules Some companies coat supplements with shellac, wax, and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, to keep the moisture out so the pills have a longer shelf life. While this may be good for preservation, it is not good for you. These coatings can decrease the solubility of a multivitamin tablet or capsule, reducing its ability to readily disintegrate.
Sugar If your supplement has sugar, corn syrup solids, artificial sweeteners or high-fructose corn syrup…run. Far away. Sugar + vitamins is not the medicine you need.
Fillers & Additives Similar to the sugar conundrum, many supplements contain binders and fillers to make the ingredients stick together. The result? Poor disintegration rates for tablets (pills) and capsules in your gut and digestive irritation. 
SUPPLEMENT GUIDE: WHAT SHOULD I TAKE?!
In an ideal world, we’d be able to get all of our nutrients from the foods we eat. 
Unfortunately, this isn’t the case.  Only 1 in 10 Americans eat the recommended number of veggies (3) and fruits (2) every day. 
Not to mention the fact, that even if you do eat your fruits and veggies, many of them are laden with pesticides and chemicals that are not best for our bodies. In addition, our meat and protein sources run a wide gamut. Sustainable proteins are best—reaching for pastured, organic, grass-fed and wild-caught sources as much as possible.
The solution? 
Supplements can help fill the gaps from any nutrient deficiencies we may encounter, as well as help support our overall health as “healing agents” during times of body imbalance. 
Which ones should you take?
There are 2 types of supplements I “prescribe” for clients looking for the right formulas:
Healing Supplements 
Maintenance Supplements
The goal? NOT to remain on TONS of supplements forever. 
Healing Supplements=Short Term Use “Healing” Supplements as short-term solutions for helping bridge the gap to better health, such as taking Oregano Oil when you catch a cold, or Anti-Microbial Herbs to get rid of unhealthy gut bacteria.Maintenance Supplements=Boost Nutrients in Foods
As for Maintenance supplement guide, I recommend a few staple baselines, like a Probiotic and Pre-biotic, just like I recommend drinking water and eating lots of veggies, proteins and healthy fats, to maximize your digestion and the nutrients you get from the foods you eat. 
4 ESSENTIAL PRINCIPLES FOR SUPPLEMENTING
How to know which ones to use and when?This is your ultimate supplement guide!
Use these 4 essential guiding principles to help you rule out what to take and not take. 
Consume nutrients from real, whole foods as much as possible.
Focus on maximizing digestion and gut health. If your gut is unhealthy or “leaky” then you’re not going to absorb your nutrients or vitamins in the first place. (If anything, these are the supplements where I invest my money).
Take nutrients that you are deficient in in their naturally occurring form (as opposed to in shakes, multi-vitamins or fortified foods)
Be picky with what you take. (The cheaper deal is not always the better deal for your body, and instead of asking Doctor Google what to take, consider working with a practitioner to get a custom supplement plan https://drlauryn.com/work-with-me/ built for your body if you’re interested in hacking your health)
ESSENTIAL SUPPLEMENT GUIDE WHEN SHOPPING 
So, now the big question: Which specific supplements are a waste and which ones are must? Use this as your supplement guide.
Here’s a hit list of some of my top go-tos:
HEALING SUPPLEMENTS
Beneficial supplements and herbs for times of imbalance. (i.e. these are not “all the time”) 
Probiotics & Prebiotics
Supplements:
Best probiotics for constipation:
Soil-based organisms (Prescript- Assist, Primal Probiotics, Garden of Life Primal Defense Ultra, ProBiome Rx Leaky Gut)
Transient commensals, like MegaSporeBiotic
E. coli Nissle (Mutaflor)
Lactobacillus plantarum (Jarrow)
Bifidobacteria infantis Align  
Best probiotics for diarrhea/loose stools
Soil-based organisms Soil-based organisms (Prescript- Assist, 
Primal Probiotics,
Transient commensals, like MegaSporeBiotic
Saccharomyces boulardii (Jarrow, Floramyces Designs for Health)
VSL#3
Elixa
Prebiotics 
Sunfiber
Allergies
Cod Liver Oil
Rosita Cod Liver Oil 
 Essential Oils Forget the Vix Vapor Rub, reach for one of these these essential aromatherapy oils instead. Add 4-5 drops of your oil of choice to a diffuser http://amzn.to/2Ebf2wC, and turn it up:
Lemon
Peppermint 
Basil
Eucalyptaus 
Lavender
Allergy Combo: Make a mix with peppermint, eucalyptus and lavender oil. 
Garlic 
GarliActive
Herbal Antihistamine
Histoplex by Biotics Research (Suppressed immunity)
Histoplex AB version (Airborne Allergies)
L-Glutamine
Enteromend by Thorne Research
Liposomal Curcumin
Empirical Labs Liposomal Curcumin  
Oregano Oil
Essential Oil  
or 
Emulsified Oregano Oil Capsules
ADP  
Candibactin-AR  
True Tonic
dChiKitchens  
Spirulina
Now Foods
Quercetin
Quercetin Phytozyme Thorne Research
Zinc
Zinc 30 by Pure Encapsulations
Blood Sugar Balance
Berberine
Thorne Research Berberine
Cod Liver Oil  
Gymnema
Pure Encapsulations  
Fenugreeek
Thorne Research  
Gluco-Supreme (Designs for Health) 
(USE PRACTITIONER CODE: LAURYNLAX at checkout) Balance blood sugar to balance cortisol, and consequently hormones if you have blood sugar imbalances as well.
Magnesium 
Metabolic Synergy (Designs for Health)
(USE PRACTITIONER CODE: LAURYNLAX at checkout) Balance blood sugar to balance cortisol, and consequently hormones if you have blood sugar imbalances as well. 
Prebiotics
Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum  
Probiotics
Soil based organisms, like Primal Probiotics
Vitamin D (test your levels before taking)
Designs for Health, D Supreme
Cold/Flu
Oregano Oil 
An essential oil that is considered to be antibacterial, antiparasitic, antiseptic, antiviral and immune stimulating. Like the fresh herb, Buy as an essential oil and dilute 1 drop with 1 drop coconut oil or extra virgin olive oil and take under the tongue.  To get the full benefits of oregano oil, use a dosage of 50-100 mg oregano oil 4x per day.
Castor Oil
The “windex” of all things wellness, castor oil has the ability to “speed up” healing by increasing white blood cells and the count of T-11 cells (a type of special white blood cells that act like antibodies) produced within the body’s lymphocytes that help kill viruses, fungi, bacteria and cancer cells. Rub the oil http://amzn.to/2zQ8mAk  on pulse and sinus points, and the back of the neck.
Turmeric
A natural anti-inflammatory agent for calming the inflammatory response in the body. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is anti-viral and anti-fungal. Use a Liposomal  Curcumin http://amzn.to/2DBZAYG for a supplement formula, or add turmeric spice to recipes, like Turmeric Tea https://autoimmunewellness.com/anti-inflammatory-turmeric-tea/,
Vitamin C
Absorbic acid, of Vitamin C, has long been touted as an “immune booster.” Add a little more to the diet through citrus, strawberries and spinach during illness, and short term supplementation via 1000 mg of Liposomal Vitamin C (Empirical Labs http://amzn.to/2CfDqzm, Seeking Health http://amzn.to/2BZSlK5). Liposomal formulas are more absorbable. 
Elderberry
An essential oil and food linked to decreased cold and flu duration due to antibacterial and anti-infectious qualities. Use organic dried black elderberries (1 http://amzn.to/2CpYDU5, 2 http://amzn.to/2DB8Axo) to consume whole, or make a homemade syrup.
Cortisol & Hormone Imbalances (“Adrenal Fatigue” to PMS)
Women’s Power House: EstroFactors
Women’s support formula for balancing estrogen and progesterone. 
Balance Cortisol: Gaia Adrenal Support http://amzn.to/2DEAdWJOR HPA Balance (Vital Plan): https://vitalplan.com/shop/hpa-balance?utm_medium=aff&utm_source=link-connector&utm_campaign=products&utm_content=hpa-balance Minimize cortisol to support healthy hormones. 
Gluco-Supreme (Designs for Health) http://catalog.designsforhealth.com/GlucoSupreme-Herbal-120-capsules
(USE PRACTITIONER CODE: LAURYNLAX at checkout) Balance blood sugar to balance cortisol, and consequently hormones if you have blood sugar imbalances as well.
Metabolic Synergy (Designs for Health)– http://catalog.designsforhealth.com/Metabolic-Synergy-180
(USE PRACTITIONER CODE: LAURYNLAX at checkout) Balance blood sugar to balance cortisol, and consequently hormones if you have blood sugar imbalances as well. 
Kavinace (Neuroscience) Calms stress and high cortisol signals to the brain and hormones during that time of the month and beyond. https://www.pureformulas.com/kavinace-60-capsules-by-neuroscience.html 
Phosphatidylserine PS http://catalog.designsforhealth.com/Phosphatidyl-Serine-60 (Use code LAURYNLAX) to checkout. 
Vital Adapt. http://amzn.to/2EdPJtD For “low” cortisol and fatigue symptoms. Contains eleuthero, rhodiola, schisandra, ashwagandha, cordyceps, reishi, ginseng, and licorice.
Dysbiosis/Fungal Overgrowth
Activated Charcoal
Integrative Therapeutics https://amzn.to/2JgfZWt
Anti-Biofilm Enzymes
Interfase Plus https://amzn.to/2q9qhyO
Botantical Herbs (Anti-microbials)
Candida AR https://llax.metagenics.com/candibactin-ar
Candida BR https://llax.metagenics.com/candibactin-BR
OR
GI Synergy (Apex) * Must order through a practitioner
OR
Dysbiocide (Biotics)  https://amzn.to/2IvTHig
FC Cidal (Biotics) https://amzn.to/2q8ulPY
Digestive Enzymes
DigesteZymes Digestezyme https://amzn.to/2Ek56zs
Digest 
Carbo G
Emulsified Oregano Oil
ADP by Biotics: http://amzn.to/2F3q9qU 
HCL
Metagest by Metagenics
https://llax.metagenics.com/spectrazyme-metagest-formerly-metagest  https://llax.metagenics.com/spectrazyme-metagest-formerly-metagest 
Monolaurin
Lauracidin https://amzn.to/2GY5g4S 
Ox Bile
Beta Plus by Biotics (1 with each meal) http://amzn.to/2nf35Nc
Prebiotics
Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum https://amzn.to/2E9mXck  
Probiotics
Primal Probiotics http://amzn.to/2kulPrG 
GENERAL BLOATING & CONSTIPATION
Bloating
Atrantil. http://amzn.to/2DBhMlP Distills methane gas production.
Allicin (Garlic). GarliActive by Pure Encapsulations. https://www.purecapspro.com/drlauryn/pe/products/product_details.asp?ProductsID=893 
Digestive Enzymes. Digest by Transformation Enzymes. http://amzn.to/2DT6nRW 
Carbo-G (if you are sensitive to carbohydrates) https://www.amazon.com/Transformation-Enzyme-Carbo-G-90-caps/dp/B00A1RF44Y  
Beta TCP http://amzn.to/2DEBUDt  (if you are sensitive to eating fats—even healthy ones).
Essential Oils Peppermint, Fennel, & Chamomile.
Hydrochloric Acid or Apple Cider Vinegar. Metagest by Metagenics. https://llax.metagenics.com/spectrazyme-metagest-formerly-metagest 
Ginger. A natural de-bloating effect. 
Ginger Pro by Thorne Research http://amzn.to/2Fk4sCK or Ginger Extract  https://www.purecapspro.com/drlauryn/pe/products/product_details.asp?ProductsID=1179 
Liposomal Curcumin
Empirical Labs Liposomal Curcumin http://amzn.to/2GjnpXp 
Prebiotics
Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum https://amzn.to/2E9mXck  
Probiotics
Soil based, like Primal Probiotics http://amzn.to/2kulPrG 
Constipation
Aloe Latex Capsules. A natural laxative effect. Cape Aloe http://amzn.to/2DBWOmJ
Dandelion & Licorice Root Smooth Move tea. http://amzn.to/2DDTEPB Dandelion tea http://amzn.to/2GjvsDE 
  Bitter Herbs: 
AFNG (Byron White) http://www.byronwhiteformulas.com/tag/afng/
Digest (Standard Process) https://www.standardprocess.com/Products/MediHerb/DiGest-Phytosynergist#.WsZO9WaZPwc 
Iberogast http://amzn.to/2DzQ88H
Natural Calm. Magnesium Citrate plus Calcium relaxes digestive muscles. http://amzn.to/2DEwXdX
GI Renew (Designs for Health). A blend or herbals to support elimination. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FH11M4?ie=UTF8
Magnesium 
Ozonated Magnesium (NOW) https://amzn.to/2GAgMnz 
Magnesium Glycinate (Pure Encapsulations) https://www.purecapspro.com/drlauryn/pe/products/product_details.asp?ProductsID=951 
Magnesium Citrate (Natural Calm) https://amzn.to/2JoBSTs 
Peppermint
IB Guard https://amzn.to/2q8N9yF 
Prebiotics (see complete list at beginning)
Especially Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum https://amzn.to/2E9mXck  
Probiotics
Best probiotics for constipation:
Soil-based organisms (Prescript- Assist https://amzn.to/2uQmSur, Primal Probiotics https://amzn.to/2EnobjX, Garden of Life Primal Defense Ultra https://amzn.to/2q5v0BM, ProBiome Rx 
Leaky Gut https://amzn.to/2EmNnao)
Transient commensals, like MegaSporeBiotic https://microbiomelabs.com/products/megasporebiotic/
E. coli Nissle ( Mutaflor https://feelgoodnatural.com/shop/digestion/mutaflor-sale-60-caps-30-days-supply/?c=e6574c964bd7)
Lactobacillus plantarum (Jarrow https://amzn.to/2GxXjno)
Bifidobacteria infantis Align https://amzn.to/2JnhSB0
Prokinetic: MotilPro by Pure Encapsulations. https://www.purecapspro.com/drlauryn/pe/products/product_details.asp?ProductsID=1255 
Vitamin-Electrolyte Blends Ageless Hydro-C https://www.gutsense.org/store/hydro-c-colonic-moisturizer.html 
GERD
HCL Tablets (Metagest)
Metagest https://llax.metagenics.com/spectrazyme-metagest-formerly-metagest 
GI Revive
Designs for Health http://catalog.designsforhealth.com/GI-Revive-Powder (use code DRLAURYNLAX to check out)
Gastro Mend
Designs for Health http://catalog.designsforhealth.com/GastroMend-HP-60
(use code DRLAURYNLAX to check out)
Prebiotics
Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum
Soil Based Probiotics Primal Probioticshttp://amzn.to/2kulPrG
IBS-C (Constipation)
Antimicrobial Herbal Supplements. Biotics: FC Cidal https://amzn.to/2Iz6CjC + Dysbiocide, https://amzn.to/2q94V5E 
Apex: GI Synergy, 
Metagenics: Candida BR https://llax.metagenics.com/candibactin-br + Candida AR https://llax.metagenics.com/candibactin-ar
Bitter Herbs: 
AFNG (Byron White) http://www.byronwhiteformulas.com/tag/afng/
Digest (Standard Process) https://www.standardprocess.com/Products/MediHerb/DiGest-Phytosynergist#.WsZO9WaZPwc 
Iberogast http://amzn.to/2DzQ88H
Natural Calm. Magnesium Citrate plus Calcium relaxes digestive muscles. http://amzn.to/2DEwXdX
GI Renew (Designs for Health). A blend or herbals to support elimination. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FH11M4?ie=UTF8
Magnesium 
Ozonated Magnesium (NOW) https://amzn.to/2GAgMnz 
Magnesium Glycinate (Pure Encapsulations) https://www.purecapspro.com/drlauryn/pe/products/product_details.asp?ProductsID=951 
Magnesium Citrate (Natural Calm) https://amzn.to/2JoBSTs 
Ox Bile. Liver support. Beta Plus https://amzn.to/2JrUNNl. or Bilemin https://amzn.to/2H1OrG8 
Peppermint
IB Guard https://amzn.to/2q8N9yF 
Prebiotic’s
Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum https://amzn.to/2E9mXck 
Probiotics
Best probiotics for constipation:
Soil-based organisms (Prescript- Assist https://amzn.to/2uQmSur, Primal Probiotics https://amzn.to/2EnobjX, Garden of Life Primal Defense Ultra https://amzn.to/2q5v0BM, ProBiome Rx 
Leaky Gut https://amzn.to/2EmNnao)
Transient commensals, like MegaSporeBiotic https://microbiomelabs.com/products/megasporebiotic/
E. coli Nissle ( Mutaflor https://feelgoodnatural.com/shop/digestion/mutaflor-sale-60-caps-30-days-supply/?c=e6574c964bd7)
Lactobacillus plantarum (Jarrow https://amzn.to/2GxXjno)
Bifidobacteria infantis Align https://amzn.to/2JnhSB0
Prokinetic: MotilPro by Pure Encapsulations. https://www.purecapspro.com/drlauryn/pe/products/product_details.asp?ProductsID=1255 
Vitamin-Electrolyte Blends Ageless Hydro-C https://www.gutsense.org/store/hydro-c-colonic-moisturizer.html
For bloating symptoms: Atrantil http://amzn.to/2D750Lz  (2 capsules with meals, diminishes bloating as well)
IBS-Diarrhea 
Antimicrobial Herbal Supplements. Biotics: FC Cidal https://amzn.to/2Iz6CjC + Dysbiocide, https://amzn.to/2q94V5E 
Apex: GI Synergy, 
Metagenics: Candida BR https://llax.metagenics.com/candibactin-br + Candida AR https://llax.metagenics.com/candibactin-ar
AND/OR 
Atrantil. http://amzn.to/2D750Lz 
Bitter Herbs: 
AFNG (Byron White) http://www.byronwhiteformulas.com/tag/afng/
Digest (Standard Process) https://www.standardprocess.com/Products/MediHerb/DiGest-Phytosynergist#.WsZO9WaZPwc 
Iberogast http://amzn.to/2DzQ88H
Butyrate Supplement https://amzn.to/2qaHvwS
GAPS or Elemental diet (specifically for Crohn’s)
Ginger & Ginger Tea.
Peppermint
IB Guard https://amzn.to/2q8N9yF
Prebiotics 
Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum https://amzn.to/2E9mXck 
Probiotics (soil-based)
Best probiotics for diarrhea/loose stools
Soil-based organisms Soil-based organisms (Prescript- Assist https://amzn.to/2uQmSur, 
Primal Probiotics https://amzn.to/2EnobjX,
Transient commensals, like MegaSporeBiotic https://microbiomelabs.com/products/megasporebiotic/
Saccharomyces boulardii (Jarrow https://amzn.to/2JnQ8Mk, Floramyces Designs for Health https://amzn.to/2GEV7Xv)
VSL#3 https://amzn.to/2GAu6s7
Elixa https://amzn.to/2EmTJ9M
IBD (Irritable Bowel Disease)
Active Flare
AIP Diet, GAPS Diet, or Low FODMAP Diet
Antimicrobial Herbs Candida AR https://llax.metagenics.com/candibactin-ar
Candida BR https://llax.metagenics.com/candibactin-BR
OR
GI Synergy (Apex) * Must order through a practitioner
OR
Dysbiocide (Biotics)  https://amzn.to/2IvTHig
FC Cidal (Biotics) https://amzn.to/2q8ulPY
Butyrate 3-4 g. like Body Bio https://amzn.to/2HckdO9 
FMT Fecal Microbiota Transplant
Probiotics (soil based) & Prebiotics
VSL#3 https://amzn.to/2GAu6s7 Elixa https://amzn.to/2EmTJ9M MegaSporeBiotic https://microbiomelabs.com/products/megasporebiotic/ Soil Based: Prescript Assist https://amzn.to/2uQmSur or Primal Probiotics http://amzn.to/2kulPrG Mutaflor https://feelgoodnatural.com/shop/digestion/mutaflor-sale-60-caps-30-days-supply/?c=e6574c964bd7
Prebiotics  Sunfiber https://amzn.to/2E9mXck 
Remission/Maintenance 
AIP Diet, GAPS Diet, or Low FODMAP Diet
Curcumin
BCM-95 (Xymogen) https://amzn.to/2uNMd8i 
liposomal https://amzn.to/2HdWKfR 
Theracurmin (Integrative Therapeutics https://amzn.to/2GEWZTO) 
Colostrum
Tegricel form best; 1.5 g/d (Designs for Health, use code DRLAURYNLAX at checkout) http://catalog.designsforhealth.com/Tegricel-Colostrum-60 
Glutathione
Liposomal form best; 2 tsp per day (Empirical Labs) https://amzn.to/2uOGAqz 
Probiotics (soil based) & Prebiotics
VSL#3 https://amzn.to/2GAu6s7 Elixa https://amzn.to/2EmTJ9M MegaSporeBiotic https://microbiomelabs.com/products/megasporebiotic/ Soil Based: Prescript Assist https://amzn.to/2uQmSur or Primal Probiotics http://amzn.to/2kulPrG Mutaflor https://feelgoodnatural.com/shop/digestion/mutaflor-sale-60-caps-30-days-supply/?c=e6574c964bd7
Prebiotics  Sunfiber https://amzn.to/2E9mXck 
Vitamin D (if low)
Aim for serum level of 40-60 ng/mL
Vitamin D (if low)
Aim for serum level of 40-60 ng/mL
Rosita Cod Liver Oil https://www.corganic.com/products/evclo#592254c4b8e65
Vitamin D (Vitamin D-Supreme by Designs for Health http://catalog.designsforhealth.com/Vitamin-D-Supreme, use code DRLAURYNLAX at checkout)
Leaky Gut
Apple Cider Vinegar. Consume 1 tbsp. in 2-4 oz. of water with meals.
Butyrate Supplementation.  Try: 1 dose Sodium-Potassium Butyrate (not Cal-Mag) http://amzn.to/2HLbku6.
Colostrum. Try: ProSerum whey by Well Wisdom http://amzn.to/2IB3BAb . 1 Serving Daily.
Glutamine. Try: Enteromend by Thorne http://amzn.to/2G89pTm . 1-3 servings daily.
Probiotics & Prebiotics. These two are staples in any gut-loving plan.Best probiotics for constipation: Soil-based organisms (Prescript- Assist https://amzn.to/2uQmSur, Primal Probiotics https://amzn.to/2EnobjX, Garden of Life Primal Defense Ultra https://amzn.to/2q5v0BM, ProBiome Rx  Leaky Gut https://amzn.to/2EmNnao)Transient commensals, like MegaSporeBiotic https://microbiomelabs.com/products/megasporebiotic/E. coli Nissle ( Mutaflor https://feelgoodnatural.com/shop/digestion/mutaflor-sale-60-caps-30-days-supply/?c=e6574c964bd7)Lactobacillus plantarum (Jarrow https://amzn.to/2GxXjno)Bifidobacteria infantis Align https://amzn.to/2JnhSB0 
Best probiotics for diarrhea/loose stools
Soil-based organisms Soil-based organisms (Prescript- Assist https://amzn.to/2uQmSur, 
Primal Probiotics https://amzn.to/2EnobjX,
Transient commensals, like MegaSporeBiotic https://microbiomelabs.com/products/megasporebiotic/
Saccharomyces boulardii (Jarrow https://amzn.to/2JnQ8Mk, Floramyces Designs for Health https://amzn.to/2GEV7Xv)
VSL#3 https://amzn.to/2GAu6s7
Elixa https://amzn.to/2EmTJ9M
Prebiotics  Sunfiber https://amzn.to/2E9mXck
Vitamins A & D.  Try: Cod liver oil—more absorbable than the synthetic formulas of Vitamin A and Vitamin D supplements. I like Rosita Cod Liver Oil https://www.corganic.com/products/evclo#592254c4b8e65 capsules.
Zinc. Try Biotics Aqueous Zinc http://amzn.to/2HN8lBF for 7 days, then switch to a capsule form like this one by Pure Encapsulations https://www.purecapspro.com/drlauryn/pe/products/product_details.asp?ProductsID=1003
Liver & Gallbladder Health
Liver/Gallbladder Support: Beta TCP (Pancreatic Enzymes) http://amzn.to/2DEBUDt  or Beta Plus (Ox Bile) http://amzn.to/2DGzjZG (if you’ve had gallbladder removed). Helps create bile (waste)
Ginger. Cleansing for the liver. Ginger Pro by Thorne Research http://amzn.to/2Fk4sCK or Ginger Extract  https://www.purecapspro.com/drlauryn/pe/products/product_details.asp?ProductsID=1179
Livotrit (Biotics Research) http://amzn.to/2Ee7fhH Contains a blend of liver cleansing herbs: Andrographis, Berberis Aristata, Boehavia, Eclipta, Indian Barberry, Indian Tinospora, Milk Thistle, Picrorhiza, Saccharum Officinarum, Sugarcane, Tinospora Cordifolia.
Muscle Strain/Injury Healing
Turmeric Blend. http://amzn.to/2DEvqEC Anti-inflammatory fighter.
Probiotics. http://amzn.to/2kulPrG Max absorption of nutrients you consume. 
Collagen Protein  http://amzn.to/2DCZBMK & Gelatin http://amzn.to/2DCjCmr
Cod Liver Oil Healthy fatty acids to boost metabolism and regulate blood sugar https://www.corganic.com/collections/supplements/products/evclo-capsules or Vital Choice Fish Oil http://amzn.to/2DTBVHn 
Mood Health 
Vitamin B12: 800 mcg–5 mg/day
DHA: Essential fatty acids boost brain health Vital Choice Fish Oil http://amzn.to/2DTBVHn
HPA Balance (Vital Plan): https://vitalplan.com/shop/hpa-balance?utm_medium=aff&utm_source=link-connector&utm_campaign=products&utm_content=hpa-balance Balance cortisol to support healthy hormones. 
SIBO
Antimicrobial Herbs
Biotics: FC Cidal https://amzn.to/2Iz6CjC + Dysbiocide, https://amzn.to/2q94V5E 
Apex: GI Synergy, 
Metagenics: Candida BR https://llax.metagenics.com/candibactin-br + Candida AR https://llax.metagenics.com/candibactin-ar
Anti-Biofilm
Interfase Plus –https://amzn.to/2q75Ljp
Atrantil: 
Atrantil http://amzn.to/2D750Lz 
Beta TCP or Beta Plus (if no gallbladder)
Beta TCP- http://amzn.to/2DEBUDt 
Beta Plus https://amzn.to/2uOFMSI 
Cod Liver Oil
Rosita Cod Liver Oil https://www.corganic.com/products/evclo#592254c4b8e65
Digestive Bitters
Bitter Herbs: 
AFNG (Byron White) http://www.byronwhiteformulas.com/tag/afng/
Digest (Standard Process) https://www.standardprocess.com/Products/MediHerb/DiGest-Phytosynergist#.WsZO9WaZPwc 
Iberogast http://amzn.to/2DzQ88H
Digestive Enzymes
Digestezymes  http://catalog.designsforhealth.com/Digestzymes-180 (use code DRLAURYNLAX to checkout)
Digest https://amzn.to/2HelVii 
Carbo G https://amzn.to/2IAMopD
HCL
Metagest https://llax.metagenics.com/spectrazyme-metagest-formerly-metagest
Monolaurin
Lauracidin https://amzn.to/2uRjFLh 
Peppermint Oil IB Guard https://amzn.to/2qaLQAa
Prokinetic. Motilpro https://www.purecapspro.com/drlauryn/pe/products/product_details.asp?ProductsID=1255
Soil Based Probiotic
MegaSporeBiotic https://microbiomelabs.com/products/megasporebiotic/ Soil Based: Prescript Assist https://amzn.to/2uQmSur or Primal Probiotics http://amzn.to/2kulPrG
Zinc: https://www.purecapspro.com/drlauryn/pe/products/product_details.asp?ProductsID=1003
Sleep Better
Sleep Remedy.  A combo of Magnesium, Vitamin D and a proprietary sleep blend to stimulate the brain to relax. http://www.docparsley.com/shop/ (don’t take melatonin or magnesium in addition to this)
Melatonin. http://amzn.to/2DDFjme Promotes bette sleep.
HPA Balance. Balances stress levels. https://vitalplan.com/shop/hpa-balance?utm_medium=aff&utm_source=link-connector&utm_campaign=products&utm_content=hpa-balance  
Natural Calm. Magnesium Citrate plus Calcium relaxes body http://amzn.to/2DEwXdX
Acetyl-CH (Apex Energetics) http://amzn.to/2FlkA7c A calamine neuro-transmitter for imbalanced hormones, like cortisol, that influences mood and sleep.
Skin Health
Biotin http://amzn.to/2BwrDaw
Fresh renewed skin is yours. 
Collagen Protein
Vital Proteins https://amzn.to/2q9AZpQ 
Equip https://amzn.to/2JlD9eh
OSsoGoodBones https://www.ossogoodbones.com (use code THRIVE for 10% off)
Niacin (B3) http://amzn.to/2Ef1X5v
Prevents skin dryness and rashes.
HCL https://llax.metagenics.com/spectrazyme-metagest-formerly-metagest 
Vitamin A
Cod Liver Oil 
Healthy fatty acids to boost metabolism and regulate blood sugar https://www.corganic.com/collections/supplements/products/evclo-capsules
Vitamin C
Hydration for the skin. Use short-term supplementation via 1000 mg of Liposomal Vitamin C (Empirical Labs http://amzn.to/2CfDqzm, 
Seeking Health http://amzn.to/2BZSlK5). Liposomal formulas are more absorbable.
Hydro-C https://www.gutsense.org/store/hydro-c-colonic-moisturizer.html 
Vitamin K2. http://amzn.to/2BxuO1H Beneficial for preventing wrinkling and premature aging.
Vitamin E http://amzn.to/2DPEkT5 
Skin healing from scars, breakouts and scabs. 
Silica http://amzn.to/2DQzbKF 
Skin hydration and tautness. 
Zinc Wards off acne flares. http://amzn.to/2nflryT 
MAINTENANCE SUPPLEMENTS
Soil Based Probiotic Quality probiotics that are similar to the probiotics of our ancestors’ microbiome “back in the day”—once found rich in our soil, fruits and veggies. 
Primal Probiotics http://amzn.to/2kulPrG
Garden of Life Primal Defense Ultra http://amzn.to/2DQzkxH
Megaspore Biotics https://microbiomelabs.com/products/megasporebiotic/ 
Prebiotic Necessary to absorb and “digest” your probiotics. 
Sunfiber: http://amzn.to/2Aea3vQ 
Hydrochloric Acid or Apple Cider Vinegar. Metagest by Metagenics. https://llax.metagenics.com/spectrazyme-metagest-formerly-metagest Boost stomach acid. 
Digestive Enzymes Helps break down foods you eat.
Digestezymes- http://catalog.designsforhealth.com/Digestzymes-180
(Use code LAURYNLAX to be able to order)
Cod Liver Oil https://www.corganic.com/collections/supplements/products/evclo-capsules. 
Anti-inflammatory, essential fatty acids, absorbable Vitamin A & D, non-rancid formula. The result? Eased digestion, better brain power and energy.
The post The Ultimate Supplement Guide: How Not to Waste Your Money appeared first on Meet Dr. Lauryn.
Source/Repost=> https://drlauryn.com/wellness-knowledge/ultimate-supplement-guide/ ** Dr. Lauryn Lax __Nutrition. Therapy. Functional Medicine ** https://drlauryn.com/
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brian-cdates · 5 years
Text
Savory Plantain Casserole
Have a taste with this savory plantain casserole! Enjoy!
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Savory Plantain Casserole
Ingredients
3 yellow plantains (slightly brown)
1 garlic clove, minced
1lb ground beef or turkey
1 yellow onion, diced
salt and pepper, to taste
1tbsp. pure maple syrup to taste
1tbsp. cinnamon
kale or spinach(optional)
6slices uncured bacon/turkey bacon(optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Remove peel and thinly slice the plantains lengthwise into 3 slices.
Add plantain slices to coconut oil in pan and cook both sides for 2-3 minutes on medium heat until they are slightly browned.
Set aside.
In the same pan, add minced garlic clove, ground beef, onion and salt and pepper.
Cook until meat is done.
Place plantain slices on the bottom of a glass baking dish,  then a couple spoonfuls of the ground beef mixture.
Then add a layer of greens.
Repeat two more times on top of the ground beef mixture.
Drizzle with maple syrup and add cooked bacon strips if preferred.
Cook for 12-15 minutes in oven.
Recipe Notes
  The post Savory Plantain Casserole appeared first on Meet Dr. Lauryn.
Source/Repost=> https://drlauryn.com/recipe/savory-plantain-casserole/ ** Dr. Lauryn Lax __Nutrition. Therapy. Functional Medicine ** https://drlauryn.com/ Savory Plantain Casserole via http://drlaurynlax.tumblr.com/
0 notes
clarencebfaber · 5 years
Text
Savory Plantain Casserole
Have a taste with this savory plantain casserole! Enjoy!
Tumblr media
Savory Plantain Casserole
Ingredients
3 yellow plantains (slightly brown)
1 garlic clove, minced
1lb ground beef or turkey
1 yellow onion, diced
salt and pepper, to taste
1tbsp. pure maple syrup to taste
1tbsp. cinnamon
kale or spinach(optional)
6slices uncured bacon/turkey bacon(optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Remove peel and thinly slice the plantains lengthwise into 3 slices.
Add plantain slices to coconut oil in pan and cook both sides for 2-3 minutes on medium heat until they are slightly browned.
Set aside.
In the same pan, add minced garlic clove, ground beef, onion and salt and pepper.
Cook until meat is done.
Place plantain slices on the bottom of a glass baking dish,  then a couple spoonfuls of the ground beef mixture.
Then add a layer of greens.
Repeat two more times on top of the ground beef mixture.
Drizzle with maple syrup and add cooked bacon strips if preferred.
Cook for 12-15 minutes in oven.
Recipe Notes
  The post Savory Plantain Casserole appeared first on Meet Dr. Lauryn.
Source/Repost=> https://drlauryn.com/recipe/savory-plantain-casserole/ ** Dr. Lauryn Lax __Nutrition. Therapy. Functional Medicine ** https://drlauryn.com/
Savory Plantain Casserole via https://drlaurynlax.weebly.com/
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alohabiz · 5 years
Text
The Best Leaky Gut Diet to Heal Your Gut for Good
The Best Leaky Gut Diet to Heal Your Gut for Good
What should you eat to heal leaky gut? Is there an optimal leaky gut diet that can help you heal? Yes…and no.
While there is NO “one-size-fits-all” approach to diets and gut healing protocols, here’s how to customize a leaky gut diet to heal your gut for good and choose the best foods for your body.
Leaky Gut 101
Before we jump in, let’s hit refresh for a moment to answer the question, What is…
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elizabethbgrimes · 5 years
Text
4 Reasons Why Probiotics Make You Feel Sick
Why Probiotics Make You Feel Sick
 Probiotics make you feel bloated, gassy or nauseas? Or maybe they make your skin breakout or bring on brain fog?
 Here is why and what to do about it…
  Your Probiotic Needs Are Unique
The type of probiotic that is best for your microbiome is unique to every individual.
 Any probiotic that cause bloating, gas or digestive upset are not friendly for your gut.
 Ideally, if your probiotic is a good fit for you, it should promote digestive ease and regular, well-formed bowel movements that are easy to pass.
 Although a “healing reaction” may occur during the first 3-7 days while starting a new probiotic as microbial composition may shift, typically if digestive distress continues, it’s a sign that something else may be going on under the hood.
 4 Reasons Why Probiotics Make You Feel Sick
Here are 4 Reasons Why Probiotics Make You Feel Sick:
 Not all formulas are created equal. Probiotics and gut bacteria belong in the colon, not the stomach or small intestine. If the majority of these bacteria get stuck up top, digestive distress may occur (1). Upwards of 90% of probiotics in the form of lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria probiotic strains on shelves (even in the fridge) do not contain the probiotics they claim on their label. Why? Many of these formulas cannot withstand gastric acid, demonstrating a reduction of over 100 colony units within 5 minutes (2). However, when probiotics are encapsulated for site-specific delivery into the distal parts of the gut (colon), up to 90% of the probiotics are still “alive” after two hours of stomach acid exposure, and remain in tact up to 75% by the time they make it to where they should be.
 Digestive distress, brain fog & bloating can happen if you have SIBO, Dysbiosis or yeast overgrowth. A news headline from a 2018 study tried to debunk the benefits of probiotics, stating: “Probiotic use can result in a significant accumulation of bacteria in the small intestine that can result in disorienting brain fogginess as well as rapid, significant belly bloating.” Why? The subjects who reported these symptoms also had SIBO and high D-Lactate levels—high amounts of lactic acid forming bacteria already—the most common strains in commercial probiotics (3).
 There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. A study on the probiotic byproducts in stool samples found the detection of the probiotic strains in the intestinal mucosa was highly person-specific. In some people, the same strains from the probiotics were clearly detected by the multiple analytic methods used to examine samples obtained from the study participants. In others, the probiotic strains were undetectable in the intestinal samples even by the most sensitive methods, such as strain-specific PCR—revealing that the effectiveness of different probiotics is unique to each individual (4).
 Probiotics are essential to pair with pre-biotics. Prebiotic foods and supplements are perhaps more essential for a diverse, healthy microbiome since they are the food that feeds probiotics in the first place. Prebiotics also decrease in pathogenic bacteria populations, enhance gut barrier strength, boost the immune system, and promote increases of Bifidobacteria, lactobacilli and beneficial metabolites. If you miss out on these guys, probiotics don’t “stick” and benefit your gut like intended. Prebiotics include various fiber rich foods in various categories (FOSs, inulin, GOSs, oligofructose, Beta-glucan, resistant starch, guar gum, Lactulose, Xylooligosaccharides). We will review the top food sources later on.
  What to Do About It?
As a general rule of thumb, if you feel sick from your probiotic for longer than 3-7 days, it is best to discontinue its use and consider any underlying gut issues that may be at play.
 Working with a functional medicine practitioner for proper gut testing and interpretation may help you figure out if you have an underlying gut condition, such as dysbiosis, SIBO or a yeast overgrowth.
 In addition, choosing a quality probiotic supplement that is manufactured with proper gastrointestinal delivery in mind—making its way to your colon, rather than getting lost up in your stomach acid and small intestine before it gets to the colon—could also be a gamechanger.
 Probiotics can do a body good…given you get the right formula and focus on “gut supportive” lifestyle, including a nutrient-dense diet, stress management, movement, quality sleep and plenty of clean water.
  References:
 Govender, M., Choonara, Y. E., Kumar, P., du Toit, L. C., van Vuuren, S., & Pillay, V. (2013). A review of the advancements in probiotic delivery: Conventional vs. non-conventional formulations for intestinal flora supplementation. AAPS PharmSciTech, 15(1), 29-43.
Satish S. C. Rao, Abdul Rehman, Siegfried Yu, Nicole Martinez de Andino. Brain fogginess, gas and bloating: a link between SIBO, probiotics and metabolic acidosis. Clinical and Translational Gastroenterology, 2018; 9 (6) DOI: 1038/s41424-018-0030-7
Zmora, N. Et al. (2018). Personalized Gut Mucosal Colonization Resistance to Empiric Probiotics Is Associated with Unique Host and Microbiome Features. Cell. 174: 6; 1388-1405. DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cell.2018.08.041
Guéniche A. G., Benyacoub J., Buetler T. M., Smola H., Blum S. (2006). Supplementation with oral probiotic bacteria maintains cutaneous immune homeostasis after UV exposure. J. Dermatol. 16 511–517. 10.1684/ejd.2006.0023
The post 4 Reasons Why Probiotics Make You Feel Sick appeared first on Meet Dr. Lauryn.
Source/Repost=> https://drlauryn.com/uncategorized/why-probiotics-make-you-feel-sick/ ** Dr. Lauryn Lax __Nutrition. Therapy. Functional Medicine ** https://drlauryn.com/ 4 Reasons Why Probiotics Make You Feel Sick via https://drlaurynlax.blogspot.com/
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willieacarlisle · 5 years
Text
Ingredients 2tsp. Fresh Sage 1tsp. Fresh Rosemary 1tsp. Fresh Thyme ½ tsp. Garlic Powder 1tsp. Sea Salt The post appeared first on Meet Dr. Lauryn. Source/Repost=> https://drlauryn.com/recipe/29405/  ** Dr. Lauryn Lax __Nutrition. Therapy. Functional Medic…https://drlauryn.com/ 
Ingredients 2tsp. Fresh Sage 1tsp. Fresh Rosemary 1tsp. Fresh Thyme ½ tsp. Garlic Powder 1tsp. Sea Salt The post appeared first on Meet Dr. Lauryn. Source/Repost=> https://drlauryn.com/recipe/29405/  ** Dr. Lauryn Lax __Nutrition. Therapy. Functional Medic… https://drlauryn.com/ 
Ingredients 2tsp. Fresh Sage 1tsp. Fresh Rosemary 1tsp. Fresh Thyme ½ tsp. Garlic Powder 1tsp. Sea Salt The post appeared first on Meet Dr. Lauryn. Source/Repost=> https://drlauryn.com/recipe/29405/  ** Dr. Lauryn Lax __Nutrition. Therapy. Functional Medic…https://drlauryn.com/  via https://twitter.com/DrLaurynLax_
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theperfectlywise · 6 years
Text
The curious case of Nicki Minaj: Female emcees, respect, & marketing in the streaming era
Missy Elliot’s Miss E…So Addictive was the first album by a female rapper that I bought. Or rather, that my dad bought for me the summer of 2001. Before a generation lost their innocence when those planes crashed through the World Trade Center. Before the streaming era took over and put the entire music industry’s discography on our iPhones. And when ripping the annoying plastic covering off that CD case would gave you a singular rush of anticipation. The late Purple God Prince gave us a gentle rebuke about albums at the 2016 Grammy Awards, before his untimely death: “Albums still matter. Like books and Black lives, albums still matter.”
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But with time comes change, so we’ll spare the excess nostalgia for another time. And given the amount of music I consume daily, buying albums today would likely leave me homeless and penniless, with nothing but my Kate Spade bags, wigs & CDs as declared assets. So there’s that.
Female emcees have always had a tricky relationship with hip-hop, especially along the lines of visibility. Today, Missy’s ….So Addictive and Ms. Lauryn’s Miseducation records rest in an old black case, along with countless others by male colleagues (i.e., Jay, Mobb Deep, Outcast, Wu Tang Klan, etc.). Those two CDs are token items, like the one Black guy that always get killed first in horror movies — there to confirm that female emcees exist, but still not enough to suggest real interest in their stories. Thankfully, I’ve remedied that oversight in my adult years.
Fast forward to 2008, when an up-and-coming Queens emcee named Nicki Minaj captivated the hip-hop world with her Sucka Free mixtape and 2009 Beam Me Up Scotty follow-up.
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A Lil’ Kim clone through and through down to the lingerie picture, Beam Me Up Scotty put me on notice to Nicki’s talent as a rapper — something she would later confirm when she washed two hip-hop heavyweights (Kanye West and Hov) on the same song, Monster. Nicki the Ninja would later carry the success of that mixtape, her Pink Friday album, and an eccentric and a playfully sexual Barbie aesthetic to become the highest-selling female rapper of all time. She would run unopposed with this status for years to come.
Looking at Nicki’s recent controversies and chart performance — Joe Coscarelli of The New York Times noted: “Of her [Nicki’s] two songs as a lead artist currently on the Billboard Hot 100, none is higher than number 81”— you get the sense this unopposed run has inspired complacency, if not outright arrogance on her part. Sure, we can chalk this complacency up to hip-hop’s fucked up expectation that only one woman rapper can sit on the throne. That would be a valid argument, as talented female emcees like Rapsody have not enjoyed mainstream success, despite being a Grammy-nominated artist and rapping better than the rainbow-haired, lean-drinking weirdos currently dominating the new school.
That being said, it is my observation that Nicki is currently hanging by the same rope she gladly hung Lil’ Kim with years before. That same standard that helped Nicki during her rise — and relegated Kim’s legacy to an afterthought — is slowly painting her as a “has-been” now.
Where are the receipts? Let’s look at Nicki’s 2018 so far (in chronological order):
April 3, 2018: Coming out of social media hiatus
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Nicki was spotted at LAX Airport after being on a social-media hiatus since December 2017. With an all-black ensemble and over-sized shades in tow, Nicki’s airport walk-through signaled a return to the public — and created anticipation for more. Is she coming out with a new song, after all these months? A new interview? We would get this answer a little over a week later.
April 12, 2018: Zane Lowe interview, new singles, and those Cardi B/Tokyo Stylez comments
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In the midst of releasing Barbie Tingz and Chun Li, Nicki gave a deep-dive on a variety of topics including her current artistic process, social media, Meek Mill’s legal troubles, and Cardi B. Given that Cardi’s Invasion of Privacy album was released the prior Friday (April 6th), her comments on Cardi grabbed the most headlines.
On Cardi B, Nicki said:
“The only thing with Cardi that really, really, really hurt my feelings was the first interview she did after ‘MotorSport’ came out… With ‘MotorSport,’ I kinda felt ambushed. Up until this recent interview she did, I had never seen her show me genuine love in an interview. And I can just imagine how many girls wished they could be on a song with Nicki Minaj.”
When asked why she didn’t appear on camera with Cardi in the MotorSportmusic video, Nicki effectively threw celebrity hair-stylist Tokyo Stylez under the bus for a scheduling conflict:
“Even with the scheduling conflict, she’s using my hairdresser now so even he can attest to the fact, Tokyo [Stylez]…He knows there really was a scheduling conflict and it was because of him. He’s the one that couldn’t show up. I texted him, ‘You know, if I don’t show up the day she’s shooting, they’re gonna act like I’m doing it to be mean with the current Nicki hate train.’ He wasn’t able to come, and that’s fine.”
I side-eyed these comments for a couple of reasons. For one, Nicki’s assertion that “many girls” wish for a Nicki collab tells me that she expected Cardi to bow down and kiss the ring. Given Nicki’s prior beefs with female rap legends (see: Lil’ Kim’s 2012 Breakfast Club interview) who believed she didn’t pay respect during her rise, it’s strange that she would take Cardi to task in this way. Also, publically blaming the lack of on-camera appearance on a celebrity hairstylist was a messy and unnecessary move. Why throw another professional under the bus for your lack of joint on-screen appearance?
May 24, 2018: Queen is pushed from June 15 to August 10
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In an Instagram live-stream, Nicki announced that Queen would be released on August 10th, as opposed to the originally announced June 15 date she teased during a Vogue interview on the Met Gala red carpet. Granted, album push backs are perfectly normal. In many cases, the extra time can help an artist perfect their record and it also gives management more leeway to execute the roll-out. On the other side, album push backs can signal doubts on either:
1.) The quality of the project
2.) How much said project will sell/connect with audiences
3.) Clarity with the album roll-out strategy
In Nicki’s case, to return from hiatus in April with two singles (Barbie Tingz and Chun Li) only to push the album release from June to August points to some internal doubts about the ability of the project to compete in a summer of high-profile releases (i.e., Kanye Kardashian, Drizzy, Nas, etc.). Also, this might be a small detail, but there’s a lack of a cohesive aesthetic between Nicki’s recent singles that is hard to ignore.
Shout out to @bluekeyblade for pointing out this lack of cohesion on this Twitter thread.
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The varying aesthetics here contrast with other mainstream artists. Here are some examples Twitter users pointed out under that thread:
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You can argue that the increasing emphasis on singles during the streaming era has reduced the need for cohesive projects and aesthetics. However, the marketing professional in me believes these varied aesthetics points to a record label and management team that are testing different aesthetics to see what consumers will connect with. Streaming era aside, it is evident a clear aesthetic is key to a successful brand strategy. Between Mariah’s album fonts, Ariana Grande’s Dangerous Woman bunny ears, and RiRi’s red hair during the Loud era — all of these artists had a cohesive look that was synonymous with their projects. That Nicki doesn’t appear to have a cohesive aesthetic going into an album roll-out is a worrying sign for how she is being marketed in this new streaming era.
June 13, 2018: ELLE magazine interview, and those sex-work comments
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With the tagline “The Queen Returns,��� it’s clear this cover-story was meant to promote her new album and assert her return back to the top. You might have missed this though, as controversial comments around sex-work dominated headlines.
“Maybe I was naive, but I didn’t realize how many girls were modern-day prostitutes,” she said. “Whether you’re a stripper, or whether you’re an Instagram girl — these girls are so beautiful and they have so much to offer. But I started finding out that you give them a couple thousand dollars, and you can have sex with them.”
So I’ll start with this reaction gif of Kurt from Glee:
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Upon reading these comments, I’m struck by the lack of empathy from a woman who has earned millions by selling her body and sex appeal. Maybe Nicki was simply unaware that performing sex work is often a literal means of survival for poor and disenfranchised women. Contrary to popular belief, sex work doesn’t just occur among the impossibly beautiful Instagram models who fuck rich men for Birkin bags and a trip to the Maldives. On the other side of this jet-set living are poor, LGBT women of color who perform sex work to feed and provide for their families. New York Times best-selling author and trans activist Janet Mock spoke on this very reality in a 2018 AM Tonight interview with Alicia Menendez.
Also, to have these comments come out around the same time she released Rich Sex, a song with these poetic lyrics just boggles the mind.
If you know your pussy worth a Benz truck
(Rich sex)
Don’t let homie fuck unless his bands up
(Rich sex)
Go to DR, get that fat transfer
(Rich sex)
It ain’t such a thing as broke and handsome
(Rich sex)
If you let that broke nigga fuck, we tellin’
(Rich sex)
If you let that broke nigga fuck, we tellin’
(Rich sex)
If you let that broke nigga fuck, we tellin’
(Rich sex)
If you let that broke nigga fuck, we tellin’
(Rich sex)
July 7, 2018: Wanna Thompson, Karen Civil, and those DMs
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This brings us to the most recent “controversy” surrounding Onika and those Twitter DMs with Wanna Thompson, a freelance writer from Toronto. I won’t add more to this story, as much has been recently discussed related to Wanna’s original tweet, Nicki’s DM, and Wanna’s subsequent firing from Karen Civil’s website. Check out the New York Times profile on Ms.Thompson for the whole story. Needless to say, the experience has done little to promote Ms. Minaj in a positive light ahead of her album release. Also, it’s interesting that Wanna identified the need for Nicki’s artistry to evolve — a complaint other critics have noted. I mean, how many “bitches are my sons” bars can we take?
Missy Misdemeanor commented on the current state of music and female emcees during a 2012 Breakfast Club interview. When asked about Nicki Minaj — understandable given Nicki’s presence as the top-selling female rapper — Missy curiously wrapped her praise for Nicki’s hustle with the need for unity, respect for music’s predecessors, and new talent development. Judging by Nicki’s history of feuds with older female rappers (Lil’ Kim being the most prominent ) and rumors of behind-the-scenes sabotage antics against her peers, Missy seems to be alluding to some funny-style actions on Nicki’s part. When you think about Missy’s call to nurture new hip-hop talent (lest your own legacy becomes discredited by the new school) and Nicki’s current inability to produce a hit single with lasting power, her words sound that much more prophetic right now. That may soon change though, as Bed, a Ariana Grande collab and a rumored collab with Tekashi 69 are sure to capture attention ahead of the album release. And controversy aside, all press is good press, right?
Looking at Missy’s 20+ year career and the goodwill she still wields in the industry, I’m reminded of how important it is to treat people with respect. That stars are not immune to a fickle consumer base that loves them one second and discards them the next. That complacency is the killer of growth. And when all else fails — it’s alright to sit down, mind your business, and eat your food. We don’t see Beyonce giving controversy-laden interviews and clapping back at music writers on Twitter for a reason. Just saying.
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allthingsfli · 6 years
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drlaurynlax · 5 years
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4 Reasons Why Probiotics Make You Feel Sick
Why Probiotics Make You Feel Sick
  Probiotics make you feel bloated, gassy or nauseas? Or maybe they make your skin breakout or bring on brain fog?
  Here is why and what to do about it…
    Your Probiotic Needs Are Unique
The type of probiotic that is best for your microbiome is unique to every individual.
  Any probiotic that cause bloating, gas or digestive upset are not friendly for your gut.
  Ideally, if your probiotic is a good fit for you, it should promote digestive ease and regular, well-formed bowel movements that are easy to pass.
  Although a “healing reaction” may occur during the first 3-7 days while starting a new probiotic as microbial composition may shift, typically if digestive distress continues, it’s a sign that something else may be going on under the hood.
  4 Reasons Why Probiotics Make You Feel Sick
Here are 4 Reasons Why Probiotics Make You Feel Sick:
  Not all formulas are created equal. Probiotics and gut bacteria belong in the colon, not the stomach or small intestine. If the majority of these bacteria get stuck up top, digestive distress may occur (1). Upwards of 90% of probiotics in the form of lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria probiotic strains on shelves (even in the fridge) do not contain the probiotics they claim on their label. Why? Many of these formulas cannot withstand gastric acid, demonstrating a reduction of over 100 colony units within 5 minutes (2). However, when probiotics are encapsulated for site-specific delivery into the distal parts of the gut (colon), up to 90% of the probiotics are still “alive” after two hours of stomach acid exposure, and remain in tact up to 75% by the time they make it to where they should be.
  Digestive distress, brain fog & bloating can happen if you have SIBO, Dysbiosis or yeast overgrowth. A news headline from a 2018 study tried to debunk the benefits of probiotics, stating: “Probiotic use can result in a significant accumulation of bacteria in the small intestine that can result in disorienting brain fogginess as well as rapid, significant belly bloating.” Why? The subjects who reported these symptoms also had SIBO and high D-Lactate levels—high amounts of lactic acid forming bacteria already—the most common strains in commercial probiotics (3).
  There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. A study on the probiotic byproducts in stool samples found the detection of the probiotic strains in the intestinal mucosa was highly person-specific. In some people, the same strains from the probiotics were clearly detected by the multiple analytic methods used to examine samples obtained from the study participants. In others, the probiotic strains were undetectable in the intestinal samples even by the most sensitive methods, such as strain-specific PCR—revealing that the effectiveness of different probiotics is unique to each individual (4).
  Probiotics are essential to pair with pre-biotics. Prebiotic foods and supplements are perhaps more essential for a diverse, healthy microbiome since they are the food that feeds probiotics in the first place. Prebiotics also decrease in pathogenic bacteria populations, enhance gut barrier strength, boost the immune system, and promote increases of Bifidobacteria, lactobacilli and beneficial metabolites. If you miss out on these guys, probiotics don’t “stick” and benefit your gut like intended. Prebiotics include various fiber rich foods in various categories (FOSs, inulin, GOSs, oligofructose, Beta-glucan, resistant starch, guar gum, Lactulose, Xylooligosaccharides). We will review the top food sources later on.
    What to Do About It?
As a general rule of thumb, if you feel sick from your probiotic for longer than 3-7 days, it is best to discontinue its use and consider any underlying gut issues that may be at play.
  Working with a functional medicine practitioner for proper gut testing and interpretation may help you figure out if you have an underlying gut condition, such as dysbiosis, SIBO or a yeast overgrowth.
  In addition, choosing a quality probiotic supplement that is manufactured with proper gastrointestinal delivery in mind—making its way to your colon, rather than getting lost up in your stomach acid and small intestine before it gets to the colon—could also be a gamechanger.
  Probiotics can do a body good…given you get the right formula and focus on “gut supportive” lifestyle, including a nutrient-dense diet, stress management, movement, quality sleep and plenty of clean water.
    References:
  Govender, M., Choonara, Y. E., Kumar, P., du Toit, L. C., van Vuuren, S., & Pillay, V. (2013). A review of the advancements in probiotic delivery: Conventional vs. non-conventional formulations for intestinal flora supplementation. AAPS PharmSciTech, 15(1), 29-43.
Satish S. C. Rao, Abdul Rehman, Siegfried Yu, Nicole Martinez de Andino. Brain fogginess, gas and bloating: a link between SIBO, probiotics and metabolic acidosis. Clinical and Translational Gastroenterology, 2018; 9 (6) DOI: 1038/s41424-018-0030-7
Zmora, N. Et al. (2018). Personalized Gut Mucosal Colonization Resistance to Empiric Probiotics Is Associated with Unique Host and Microbiome Features. Cell. 174: 6; 1388-1405. DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cell.2018.08.041
Guéniche A. G., Benyacoub J., Buetler T. M., Smola H., Blum S. (2006). Supplementation with oral probiotic bacteria maintains cutaneous immune homeostasis after UV exposure. J. Dermatol. 16 511–517. 10.1684/ejd.2006.0023
The post 4 Reasons Why Probiotics Make You Feel Sick appeared first on Meet Dr. Lauryn.
Source/Repost=> https://drlauryn.com/uncategorized/why-probiotics-make-you-feel-sick/ ** Dr. Lauryn Lax __Nutrition. Therapy. Functional Medicine ** https://drlauryn.com/
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drlaurynlax · 5 years
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Important: How to Use Antimicrobial Herbs to Heal Your Gut
Antimicrobial herbs are the top natural treatment for gut issues, like SIBO, dysbiosis, parasites and yeast overgrowth.
Here’s all you need to know and how to use them.
Antimicrobial Herbs 101
Herbal therapies have been used for centuries as the preferred “drugs” of choice for addressing illness—from stomach aches, viruses, colds and flu’s.
Long before researchers mentioned the words “gut microbiome,” people knew there was powerful healing in nature’s medicine for reversing disease.
Types of Antimicrobial Herbs
Some of these powerful herbal agents include:
Peppermint
Berberine
Garlic (Alicin)
Olive Leaf
Oregano Oil
Grapefruit Seed Extract
Pau d’arco
Black Walnut
Resveratrol
Licorice
Echinacea
Goldenseal
Oregon grape
Barberry
Wormwood
Thyme
Stinging Nettle
Uva Ursi
Yerba Mansa
Caprylic Acid
Cat’s Claw
Manuka honey
Tea tree oil
Curcumin
Clove
Cinnamon
Astragalus Root
Colloidal silver
  “Antimicrobial” protocols—herbal therapies—are often part of a “healing” gut protocol if dysbiosis (too much or too little gut bacteria), SIBO, fungal or yeast overgrowth, parasites or gut infections are identified as a “root cause” behind poor health.  Treatment of these  “gut issues” typically a two-stage treatment approach:
Eradicate or reduce pathological organisms
Restore a healthy gut microbiome
In most cases of dysbiosis, except for significant fungal overgrowth, a short period of antimicrobials (30-60 days) commences, followed by a more significant focus on restoring the healthy gut microbiome.
Generally speaking, a blend of botanical herbs in supplement form is recommended for most cases of dysbiosis for a “broad spectrum” approach to healing. However, depending on the certain pathogenic organisms identified on a stool or SIBO breath test, some people find treating specific organisms with research-backed specific agents may be effective (such as grapefruit seed extract for the overgrowth pseudomonas aeruginosa).
Lastly, given the fact that antimicrobial herbs can be powerful, is also recommended you combine antimicrobial treatment with adjunct supports to aid in both complete eradication/reduction of pathogenic organisms, as well as the preservation of any healthy bacteria you do have. Support agents for an antimicrobial protocol include:
Antimicrobial Treatment: Support Agents
Quality probiotic & symbiotic (a probiotic + prebiotic).
To maintain a healthy gut microbiome as some bacteria die off. (Ideally taken away from antimicrobial herbs; particularly a soil-based bacteria). Medium-chain fatty acids extracted from coconut oil that are antiparasitic in addition to being antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial. Great for boosting immunity and warding off yeast.
Biofilm Disruptor.
Pathogenic bacteria can form biofilm around their outer layer—sort of like “steel armor” for preventing destruction. Biofilm may be one of the primary drivers of resistance and treatment failure in multiple disease, antimicrobial and/or antibiotic treatments. Biofilm disruptors help break up biofilm to allow your other antimicrobial agents to work. (ex. NAC, Cranberry, Biocidin, Colloidal silver, Xylitol, Manuka honey, Interfase Plus)
Least Restrictive “Real Food” Diet. 
Many people go on an “anti-candida,” ketogenic or “no carb” diet while “healing their gut.” However, these can be counterproductive to resetting your gut microbiome, given the fact that some starchy plants and pre-biotics are needed to feed healthy gut bacteria and bring pathogenic bacteria “out to play.” Prebiotics found in starchy plants and veggies help your antimicrobials work even better (so there is bacteria for them to target). Aim for 1 to 2 servings per day of starchy plants and/or prebiotic fibers while on an antimicrobial herbs protocol.
“But isn’t medicine more powerful?”
Herbal therapies are at least as effective as rifaximin—the typical conventional antibiotic treatment for resolution of gut dysbiosis (i.e. SIBO, candida, parasites and IBS)—if not more. In one study, 104 patients diagnosed with SIBO with the lactulose breath test were treated either with Rifaximin (1,200 mg) or a cocktail of herbal antimicrobials (see below) for 4 weeks before repeating the lactulose breath test. 
The study showed that 46% of the patients treated with herbal antimicrobials were successfully treated while only 34% were free of SIBO after taking Rifaximin (1).
 Recommended Antimicrobial & Support Agents to Buy
Here are my top recommended supplements for using in your “gut healing protocol.”
Antimicrobial Herbs
Biotics FC Cidal + Dysbiocide
Roasted Garlic
Symbiotic Probiotic
Seed Probiotic
Soil Based Probiotic
Terra Flora
Monolaurin
Lauricidin
Biofilm Disruptor
Interfase Plus
-or-
Biocidin
Sample Antimicrobial Protocol
Pre-Breakfast:
Symbiotic Probiotic (probiotic + prebiotic)
Breakfast
Antimicrobial Herbs (broad spectrum supplement)
Monolaurin
Mid-Morning
Biofilm Disrupter
Lunch
Soil Based Probiotic
Mid-Afternoon
Biofilm Disrupter
Dinner
Antimicrobial Herbs (broad spectrum supplement)
Monolaurin
Post Dinner
Herbal Tea (optional)
Antimicrobial Protocol Treatment Timeline
Dysbiosis-Pathogenic (high amount of pathogenic and/or commensals bacteria): 60 Days
Dysbiosis-Healthy Overgrowth (high amount of “beneficial” bacteria on stool test and possibly yeast markers): 30 Days
Insufficiency Dysbiosis (lack of healthy bacteria with a few pathogenic bacteria): 30 Days, followed by emphasis on Probiotics & Prebiotics
Parasites: 60 Days
SIBO: Low/Mild: 30 Days, Moderate: 60 Days, High: 90 Days
 Beware: Herx (“Healing”) Reactions May Happen
A die-off reaction, also called a Herxheimer reaction or “Herx reaction”, can occur whenever you first start a new supplement or antimicrobial protocol—often a sign of a “detox” or die off of certain bacteria.
Typically, Herx symptoms develop within a couple of hours to several days after treatment and last anywhere from a few days to several weeks or months—depending on the severity of the underlying pathology you are treating. However, depending on the location of the bacteria, symptoms may develop later. The Herxheimer reaction is especially seen during antimicrobial treatments (gut healing protocol) because antimicrobials destroy numerous microorganisms and bacteria.
Although the Herxheimer reaction is typically not harmful, it does frequently cause temporary pain, discomfort, and worsening of symptoms. Symptom severity is often indicative of the level of inflammation triggered by the immune system.
Common symptoms that may develop or worsen due to a Herxheimer response include:
Bloating
Brain Fog
Chills
Cold Sweats
Constipation
Cramps
Diarrhea
Fatigue
Fever
Headaches
Irritability
Joint Pain
Lethargy
Muscle Pain
Nausea
Skin Irritation
Sore Throat
  Because of the sudden worsening of symptoms, it is common for patients to feel that the severity of their condition has increased due to the treatment. However, even though treatment causes a temporary increase in symptom intensity due to greater release of toxins the condition ultimately improves. The body responding in this way usually means that the treatment is actually working effectively.
Nevertheless, even though a Herxheimer reaction indicates that treatment is working effectively, it doesn’t make the patient’s condition any more comfortable in the immediate.
Fortunately, there are several ways of limiting the symptoms of a Herxheimer reaction without inhibiting treatment efficacy. The following suggestions can and should be used when detoxing, using antibiotics, or being treated for infections and other forms of chronic disease to limit Herxheimer intensity, including:
How to Deal with HERX Reactions
Drink H20. Drink plenty of fluids to aid in the removal of toxins and help cleanse the GI tract.
Get Your Zzzz’s. The body conducts many restorative processes while at rest that it cannot accomplish when it is awake. When experiencing a Herxheimer reaction due to greater toxicity, it is best to allow more time for quality sleep.
Sweat. Sweat it out with heated yoga, sauna and daily movement—a natural essential for detoxification.
Try Dry Brushing & Rebounding. Two lymphatic “cleansing” tactics to help flush the lymphatic track.
References
Chedid, V., Dhalla, S., Clarke, J. O., Roland, B. C., Dunbar, K. B., Koh, J., Justino, E., Tomakin, E., … Mullin, G. E. (2014). Herbal therapy is equivalent to rifaximin for the treatment of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Global advances in health and medicine, 3(3), 16-24.
  The post Important: How to Use Antimicrobial Herbs to Heal Your Gut appeared first on Meet Dr. Lauryn.
Source/Repost=> https://drlauryn.com/gut-health/antimicrobial-herbs-heal-gut-naturally/ ** Dr. Lauryn Lax __Nutrition. Therapy. Functional Medicine ** https://drlauryn.com/
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drlaurynlax · 5 years
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How to Test for Mold Illness in Your Body 
Do you have mold illness?
Check out my top recommended testing methods to find out, including:
  Mold Toxicity Checklist
Mycotoxin Urine Test
Bloodwork
Gut Testing
Liver Function Testing
DUTCH Cortisol Hormone Test
Visual Contrast Sensitivity Testing
Mold Illness Refresher
Let’s briefly review Mold Illness 101 before diving into my top recommended tests to know what we are looking for in the first place.
  Mold illness or “mycotoxin illness” is a serious condition that is commonly referred to as “CIRS”—Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome.
  Unlike a disease—which is condition typically with a specific known cause and similar symptoms (such as insulin resistance, frequent urination and weight gain in people with diabetes)— a syndrome, like CIRS, is a much broader “collection of signs and symptoms” that may present differently in different people.
  Signs & Symptoms of CIRS
Common signs and symptoms of mold illness or CIRS include
Respiratory difficulties (difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, asthma)
Neurological symptoms
Sinus congestion and stuffy nose
Hair loss
Anxiety
Brain fog, confusion or memory loss
Difficulty concentrating
Morning stiffness, joint pain
Light sensitivity
Skin rashes
Red eyes, blurred vision, sweats, mood swings, sharp pains
Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
Appetite swings
Poor body temperature regulation,
Gastrointestinal problems (cramps, abdominal pain)
Weight loss or weight gain (unintentional)
Unusual skin sensations, tingling and numbness
  You may have several of these symptoms—or just one or two. The amount of symptoms don’t matter as much as the unrelenting poor health experienced because of them.
  Although these symptoms are also synonymous with other conditions often talked about in functional medicine—from “adrenal fatigue”, thyroid disorders to gut dysbiosis—the key distinguisher in mycotoxin illness or CIRS is often times, these are often the patients who do not “get better” once commencing a protocol.
  Buttttt….how do you know if you really have “mold illness” or CIRS—or you’re just feeling out of sorts? What tests can you do to reveal true illness
  There are a handful…
  Mold Toxicity Checklist
Aside from identifying your symptoms, answer “Yes” or “No” for the following questions (adapted from Environmental Health Center).
  Yes or No?
Do musty odors bother you?
Have you worked or lived in a building where the air vents or ceiling tiles were discolored?
Have you noticed water damage or discoloration elsewhere?
Has your home been flooded?
Have you had leaks in the roof?
Do you experience unusual shortness of breath?
Do you experience recurring sinus infections?
Do you experience recurring respiratory infections and coughing?
Do you have frequent flu-like symptoms?
Do your symptoms worsen on rainy days?
Do you have frequent headaches?
Are you fatigued and have a skin rash?
  If you answer “yes” to 4 or more, your CIRS-like symptoms may have some more merit.
  Mycotoxin Urine Test
Mycotoxin urine testing is a relatively newer form of testing that can reveal the release of toxins in the urine. If you really suspect mycotoxin illness from molds to be at play, this test can yield highly insightful information for putting your puzzle together.
  Some key detected mycotoxins include:
Ochratoxins
Aflatoxins
Trichothecenes
Glicotoxins
  Recommendation:
Great Plains Urine Testing (Order Here on behalf of Dr. Lauryn Lax, OTD).
  *Note: Sometimes false “negatives” can occur with urine testing since some patients are unable to detoxify in the first place. In order to get the most accurate results, I recommend using high dose glutathione + NAC for 5 to 7 days prior to conducting your urine test in order to encourage elimination and detoxification.
  My preferred formula is Trizomal Glutathione by Apex Energetics, which includes both NAC and glutathione. Take 1 tsp 3 times per day for 5 to 7 days.  It is tough to find online, but if you call the company directly at 949-251-0152, request a bottle be sent to you on behalf of Dr. Lauryn Lax.
  Bloodwork
Bloodwork doesn’t always tell the whole story of CIRS or mycotoxin illness, but certainly can point to markers of inflammation and immune dysregulation.
  Unfortunately, many patients consult with their conventional medical practitioners and are told, “Your lab tests are normal”, but have not ordered more specialized tests that help look deeper into mycotoxicity and inflammation.  Helpful markers and their normal ranges for assessing mycotoxin illness include:
  Specialty Mycotoxin Blood Tests
Elevations in the following markers point to mold toxicity
VIP (normal range: 23-63, only available by ARUP Labs)
MSH (normal: 35-81)
MMP-9 (normal: 85-332)
C4a (normal: 0-2380)
TGF-beta-1 (normal: <2380)
Leptin (Male: 0.5-13.8; Female: 1.1-27.5)
HLA-DR (the gene that 25% of the population has, making them more susceptible to mycotoxicity; can only be run by LabCorp)
    OTHER LABS
Other labs that may be “off” on general lab work include:
  Complete Blood Count
Red Blood Count low (normal: 4.40–4.90 x 106/µL)
White Blood Count low or high (normal: 5.0–0 x 103/µL)
  Methylation Markers
MMA high (ideal < 300 nmol/L)
Folate low (ideal > 8 μg/L)
  Bloodsugar Markers
Glucose low or high (normal fasting: 75-85, normal 1-2 hours post-meal: 110-140)
HgbA1C high (normal 4.6–5.3%)
  Liver Enzymes
AST high (normal: Male: 0–25 IU/L; Female: 0–23 IU/L)
ALT high (normal: Male: 0–26 IU/L; Female: 0–20 IU/L)
  Nutrient Markers*
Zinc (often low)* (normal: 81–157 µg/dL)
Copper* often high (excess copper can lead to low zinc) (normal: 81–157 µg/dL)
Iron high or low (ideal: 40–135 µg/dL)
Ferritin high (Male: 30–200 ng/mL; Female: 30–100 ng/mL)
Vitamin D low (normal: 35–60 ng/mL)
  *Urine testing via NutraEval (Order Here and search for “NutraEval FMV by Genova)
  Inflammatory Markers
Total Cholesterol high (normal: 150–220 mg/dL for males; 150–230 mg/dL for females)
LDL Cholesterol high (normal: 0–140 mg/dL)
C Reactive Protein (CRP) high (normal: 0–1 mg/L)
BUN high or low (normal: 13–18 mg/dL)
Creatine low (normal: Male: 0.85–1.1 mg/dL; Female: 0.7 – 1.0 mg/dL)
  Hormone Markers*
*Hormone markers can be a sign that something more is going on “under the hood.” Inflammation from mold toxicity and CIRS can drive hormone imbalance. Since hormones are the “key messengers” made by our glands to regulate body functions, if our hormones are “off”, they may perpetuate the symptoms of CIRS.
  PTH elevation (normal: 10-35 pg/mL
T3 (Thyroid Hormone) deficiency (normal: 2.5–4.0 pg/mL)
Testosterone deficiency
Progesterone deficiency
Estrogen dominance or deficiency
  Bloodwork out of the norm in several of these areas may indicate imbalance.
    Gut Testing
A bi-directional relationship exists between mycotoxins and gut microbiome—mycotoxicity can impact and worsen our gut health, just like poor gut health can make one more susceptible to mycotoxicosis (1)—creating the “perfect” storm.
  On this note, it’s critical to realize, “mold illness” does not just happen from mold alone. Other pathogens that cause the same symptoms as mold illness include:
  Bacteria & bacterial infections (like Babesia and Borrelia)
Fungi
Mycobacteria
Mold
Mold spores
Endotoxins (aka lipopolysaccharides, or LPS; cell wall components of gram-negative bacteria)
Inflammagens (irritants that cause inflammation and edema)
Beta-glucans (sugars that are found in the cell walls of bacteria, fungi, yeasts, algae, lichens, and plants)
Hemolysins (toxins produced by bacteria that can destroy cells)
Volatile organic compounds
  The key theme behind all of these? They affect your gut!
  Your gut microbiome is home to 100 trillion microorganisms (gut bacteria). The healthier your gut bacteria, the healthier you are! The sicker or more pathogenic your gut bacteria, the sicker you are!
  It’s no wonder that candida (fungal overgrowth) and sinus congestion (from fungi and mold growth in the nose—part of the nasal microbiome) are common in those with suspected mold toxicity or CIRS (2).
Given that approximately 80% of your immune system is produced and housed in your gut, a “strong” gut filled with diverse, healthy gut bacteria helps boost your immune fighting defenses to weather the storm of mold and mycotoxin exposure. However, if your gut is infiltrated by pathogens—and not enough “man power” to weather the storm, eventually your gut microbiome profile can shift, resulting in an unhealthier gut…and an unhealthier you.
  Recommendation:
Comprehensive Stool Analysis + Parasitology x 3 (Doctor’s Data) (Order Here)
  Liver Testing & Symptom Checklist
In addition to your gut, your liver—your body’s “chemical processing factory” and recycling system—also plays an important role in guarding against mycotoxin and mold illness. Consider your liver your “defense” for mycotoxin and mold exposure. A sluggish or overworked liver can equally wreak havoc on your health and make you susceptible to mycotoxin illness
  Liver Checklist
The best way to assess for liver dysfunction is a combination of blood markers and symptoms. Common liver malfunction indicators include:
  Nausea
Sensitive to chemicals (perfuma, cleaning agents, etc.)
Bitter/metallic taste in mouth
Headache over the eyes
Easily motion sick
Itchy skin
Jaundice colored skin/eyes
Swelling (abdomen, legs, ankles)
Light or clay colored stools
Greasy or shiny stools
Constipation
Easily intoxicated
Hormone imbalances (PMS, PMDD, irregular menses)
Glucose/blood sugar imbalances (hypoglycemia in particular)
Brain fog
Nutrasweet/artificial sweetener consumption
History of antibiotics, birth control or long term medications
  Liver Function Blood Markers
ALT: High
AST: High
GGT: High
LDH: High
Alkaline Phosphatase: High
    Cortisol Hormone Testing
Your CNS (central nervous system) is your “stress response system.” When functioning properly, your body is able to overcome stress. If malfunctioning, chronic illness and uncontrolled inflammation happens. Swelling of the brain and “stress response” system can lead to changes in nerve endings and interfere with the electrical signaling to all functions of the body. Enter: The unrelenting CIRS symptoms that persist for those who suffer from mycotoxin illness.
  Cortisol hormone testing can give you a clearer picture of where your “stress hormones” are at, along with neurotransmitter function that play a role in controlling inflammation and stress in the body as well—such as dopamine and serotonin.
  Note: NOT all hormone testing is created equal. While bloodwork is great for assessing sex hormones (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone), it is not great at cortisol testing.
  Cortisol is a constantly changing hormone throughout the day. Therefore you need to collect multiple samples in a given day via urine and saliva in order to see an accurate pattern for your body. In addition, not all urine and saliva tests are created equal! Most tests measure either one or the other—leaving you with only partial results. Most tests also only measure “free cortisol”—NOT metabolized cortisol. However, free cortisol only makes up less than 3% of all cortisol in your body.
  For these reasons, to date, the gold standard for cortisol hormone testing is the DUTCH test—which uses both urine and saliva testing, and measures both free and metabolized cortisol.
  Recommendation:
DUTCH Cortisol Hormone Testing (Order Here)
  Visual Contrast Sensitivity Test
  Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker, creator of SurvivingMold.com and a “father” of mold toxicity recovery invented the “Visual Contrast Sensitivity” test  to measure of one of the neurologic functions of vision called contrast.
  In his years of work with patients recovering from mycotoxin illness, Dr. Shoemaker realized a key theme his patients shared was poor “contrast sensitivity” in their vision.
  His online test can help individuals further identify potential exposure to neurotoxins, biotoxins, and nutritional deficiencies in the body. These compounds have been implicated in diseases such as ADHD, CFIDS, fibromyalgia, mold illness, and Lyme disease.
  It’s not the “end all, be all”, but can be part of a comprehensive work up.
    Beyond Testing
While testing can be a helpful piece of the puzzle to identifying and confirming CIRS and mycotoxin illness, it’s vital to remember, testing is not the “end all, be all.”
  As a functional medicine practitioner, I treat and empower individuals based on the person, not the numbers, and if empirical findings—such as your symptoms or lack of health improvement despite “doing all the things” (i.e. eating clean, working out, sleeping) are still present, then it is safe to assume that something is not right “under the hood.”
  Check out the next post on my top ways to “treat” for mold and get rid of it! (So you can get on with your full, amazing life).
    References
Winnie Pui Pui, Liew & Sabran, Mohd Redzwan. (2018). Mycotoxin: Its Impact on Gut Health and Microbiota. Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology. 8. 10.3389/fcimb.2018.00060.
Brewer JH, Thrasher JD, Hooper D. Chronic illness associated with mold and mycotoxins: is naso-sinus fungal biofilm the culprit? Toxins (Basel). 2013 Dec 24;6(1):66-80. doi: 10.3390/toxins6010066. PubMed PMID: 24368325; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC3920250.
  The post How to Test for Mold Illness in Your Body  appeared first on Meet Dr. Lauryn.
Source/Repost=> https://drlauryn.com/wellness-knowledge/how-to-test-for-mold-illness/ ** Dr. Lauryn Lax __Nutrition. Therapy. Functional Medicine ** https://drlauryn.com/
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drlaurynlax · 5 years
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CIRS & Mold Illness 101: What it Is
CIRS or “chronic inflammatory response syndrome” or “mold illness” is frequently talked about as a “health hazard,” but often overlooked contaminant when it comes to chronic disease or health conditions.
What is “CIRS”? & Mold Illness
 “CIRS” (Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome) is exactly what it sounds like—inflammation that arises in the immune system from a long-time exposure to a chronic health condition or environmental toxins (like mold).
Mold illness, or “biotoxin illness” are two common illnesses associated r “CIRS”—specifically for those affected by it environmentally by mycotoxins (molds, fungi, bacteria), heavy metals (mercury, lead, arsenic) and chemicals (endocrine disrupting BPA’s in plastics, glyphosate in plants and packaged foods, sulfates and parabens in shampoo and conditioner).
Both acute or chronic immune dysregulation can wreak havoc on your health with a host of side effects including:
Symptoms of  “CIRS”& Mold Illness
“Allergies”
Appetite swings
Chronic burning sensation in the throat, chest and/or nasal passage
Coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath
Loss of balance
Depression and/or anxiety
Difficulty regulating body temperature
Dizziness
Eye irritation
Fatigue
GI distress (diarrhea, abdominal pain)
Headache
Hearing loss
Heightened sensitivity to chemicals, smells and foods
Irregular heartbeat
Joint pain and/or muscle pain
Light sensitivity
Memory problems or brain fog or decreased word-finding
Mood swings/changes
Morning stiffness
Muscle weakness
Peripheral neuropathy, and sensory neuropathy
Reduced color distinction
Respiratory problems (suppressed function)
Sinus congestion
Skin rashes
Skin sensitivity, tingling and/or ice pick pain
Sleep problems
Slower reaction time
Serious toxicity may result in impaired speech, seizures, stroke, and paralysis.
Urination frequency
Vertigo
Vision changes (blurred vision, tearing of eyes, or red eyes)
You do not have to have all the signs and symptoms of mold illness—in fact you may just have two or three. For mold illness.
Unfortunately, mold illness or “CIRS” is often overlooked because signs and symptoms can easily fly under the radar, believed to be a “norm”—such as sinus congestion (“allergies”), morning stiffness or frequent loose stools. CIRS is also often missed as an underlying trigger to other co-morbidities associated with mold and biotoxin illness, like autoimmune disease, weight gain/loss, hormone imbalances or skin conditions. No matter how many green juices you drink, many diseases won’t fully heal until you address the underlying cause.
Who Gets CIRS or “Mold Illness”?
Vulnerability to mold toxicity is present in about 25% of the population—most of whom have a genetic predisposition (the “HLA” gene) that inhibits their clearance of biotoxins from their body, and a weaker immune system (i.e. a predisposition for autoimmunity and B cell or T cell imbalances).
  In fact, a family can all be living in the same house with mold growth, but only one family member will become ill. This is because that person is the only one with the genetic vulnerability.
Those who are genetically prone to “CIRS” (chronic inflammatory response syndrome) are more prone to develop CIRS if two conditions are present:
Chronic exposure to biotoxins (in the home or work place, food, environment)
A “triggering” inflammatory event (something that fires or activates the immune system, like strep throat or allergens in the air)
For the remainder of this article, we are going to focus on mold illness.
Mold Illness Statistics
Contrary to popular belief, molds can be found in both old and new construction. When water damage occurs, and relative humidity is high enough, mold can grow in as little as 24 to 48 hours.
More than 50 percent of buildings have moisture problems.  In fact, a report by the Federal Facilities Council found over 40 percent of buildings they examined had current water damage, and over 80 percent had past water damage (23). Even in buildings without water damage, mold and other fungi and bacterium can develop when indoor humidity levels reach around 50 to 60 percent.
  In addition, the current practice of making homes more energy efficient, means that there is less ventilation with outside air, and toxic mold gasses can be trapped inside, potentiating their effect.
  Little Known Fact: Mold Illness is NOT Just Caused by Mold
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not just mold or pathogenic molds that are a concern from water-damaged and humid buildings. This is why both allergenic and pathogenic molds can trigger CIRS in susceptible individuals. In addition, there are multiple other toxins that may trigger “mold illness” or CIRS—both from moldy contaminants (allergens, pathogens and toxic mold) as well as other pathogens in the including:
  fungi
bacteria
actinomycetes
mycobacteria
endotoxins
inflammagens
beta-glucans
hemolysins
volatile organic compounds (VOC’s)
  Types of Mold
Molds are fungi that can be found both indoors and outdoors that grow best in warm, damp, and humid conditions, and spread and reproduce by making spores. Once established, mold spores can survive harsh environmental conditions, such as dry conditions, that do not support normal mold growth.
  Harmful molds may fall into any of the following classifications:
  Allergenic: Molds that cause and produce allergies and allergic reactions such as asthma attacks.
Pathogenic: Molds that cause health problems in those suffering from an acute illness.
Toxigenic: Molds that produce toxic substances (mycotoxins) that can lead to dangerous or even deadly health conditions. This is sometimes referred to as “toxic mold.”
  The most common types of these molds found in home environments include:
  Acremonium (Toxic)
Where it is: Household systems and areas such as condensation from humidifiers, cooling coils, drain pans and window sealants
What it looks like: often pink, grey, orange or white in color
Symptoms: Cause disease in the bone marrow, immune system and other organs. Because it is a carcinogen, it can also impair brain function.
  Aspergillus (Allergenic & Toxic)
Where it is: A a wide range of stored food products such as maize (foods with corn syrup, corn, etc.) and nuts, damp walls, wallpaper, floor and carpet dust, tarred wooden flooring, humidifiers and HVAC fans, bakeries, shoes, leather, old bird droppings, potted plant soil, compost
What it Looks Like: Long flask-shaped spores that can form thick layers or walls of the mold. This creates long chains of mold growth on surfaces. Because there are over 185 species of aspergillus mold, it can appear in many different colors.
Symptoms: Asthma symptoms, lung infections and respiratory inflammation
  Chaetomium (Pathogenic)
Where it Is: Usually found in a damp or leaking roof, basement or sink and may be recognizable by its musty odor.
What it Looks Like: cotton-like texture and usually changes colors from white to grey to brown and eventually to black over time
Symptoms: Skin and nail infections, weakened immune system
Cladosporium (Allergenic) Where it is: Can grow in warm or cold conditions, common outdoor mold, but often found on indoor material such as fabrics, carpets, and upholsteries
What it Looks Like: Olive green or brown Symptoms: Sneezing, dry skin, hives, watery eyes, stuffy or runny nose, coughing, postnasal drip
Fusarium (Toxic)
Where it Is: Carpeting, wallpaper and other fabrics and materials; naturally grows on food products and in compost.
What it Looks Like: Pink, white or reddish in color
Symptoms: Brain and nervous system damage; neurological problems or tingling, internal bleeding.
  Penicillium (Allergenic & Toxic)
Where it is: Water-damaged homes and buildings and materials such as carpets, wallpapers, ducting and even in mattresses.humidifiers and HVAC fans, bakeries, shoes, leather, bird droppings, potted plant soil, compost
What it Looks Like: Blue or green colored surface with a velvety texture.
Symptoms: Pulmonary inflammation and asthma; further weaken immune system
    Stachybotrys (Classic “Toxic Mold” or “Black Mold”)
Where it is: Typically on cellulose material such as woods, cardboard, paper, hay or wicker.; thrives in damp, wet areas with high humidity levels that maintain these environmental conditions for weeks.
What it Looks Like: Black splotches
Symptoms: Difficulty breathing, sinusitis, fatigue, depression, dull aches and pains in the mucous membranes, burning sensations in your airways, a tightening in the chest, persistent cough, nose bleeds, fever and painful headaches.
  Ulocladium
Where it is: Found in homes and buildings that have experienced extreme water damage. It can be found in kitchens, bathrooms and basements as well as around windows with high condensation levels.
What it Looks Like: Black in color
Symptoms: Skin infections, asthma, allergy symptoms, hay fever
                            Mold Allergy vs. Mold Illness
Although mold is a part of life, it is the overgrowth of these mold and chronic (ongoing) exposure to that mold that can cause problems—both allergies and illness .
  Mold Allergy Explained
A mold allergy produces hay fever-like symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itching, nasal stuffiness, watering eyes, wheezing, and coughing. The symptoms are usually easily observable by a physician and therefore are easily accepted and diagnosed. Diagnosis can be confirmed with typical allergy tests for elevated immunoglobulin E (IgE).
  Mold Illness Explained
If you’re especially sensitive to mold, you may develop irritation in your throat and nasal passages, often immediately upon exposure. But not all symptoms of mold sensitivity are respiratory related. In sensitive individuals who go on to develop “mold illness,” mycotoxins can produce numerous symptoms (as described above).
  Again:
  Chronic burning sensation in the throat, chest and/or nasal passage
Coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath
Loss of balance
Depression and/or anxiety
Dizziness
Eye irritation
Fatigue
GI distress
Headache
Hearing loss
Heightened sensitivity to chemicals, smells and foods
Irregular heartbeat
Joint pain and/or muscle pain
Memory problems or brain fog
Mood swings/changes
Muscle weakness
Peripheral neuropathy, and sensory neuropathy
Reduced color distinction
Skin rashes
Sleep problems
Slower reaction time
Vision changes
Serious toxicity may result in impaired speech, seizures, stroke, and paralysis.
      How to tell?!
If chronic mold allergy is an issue, the only option for complete relief is to eradicate mold from your environment. Generally folks with mold allergies feel much better simply by being removed from the mold. They also often find that heal much quicker than someone with a true HLA gene and mycotoxin or black mold illness.  If you have an HLA gene that prevents you from excreting mycotoxins—leading to Mycotoxin Illness, in this case you’ll also need help from additional therapies such as binders and possibly antifungal therapies to clear them from your system, which will be detailed more in a future post.
  Conventional Medicine Doesn’t Always Get It
Unfortunately, conventional medicine assumes that a response to mold is related to external allergens (outdoors, dust, pollen, etc.)—not necessarily the mycotoxins from molds themselves.
  CIRS (chronic inflammatory response syndrome) is practically unrecognized altogether in conventional medicine as practitioners often overlook environmental pathogenic and toxigenic mold exposure as being a source of health ills, or the possibility of allergenic molds turning into a more serious health condition if exposure continues. Consequently, if a patient’s mold allergy test comes back negative via bloodwork or allergy testing, they are turned away; if it is positive, they are given a prescription for allergy shots or steroids. End of story.
  So How Do You Know if You Have Mold Illness?
Stay tuned for the next post where we will talk about diagnostics for uncovering mold illness.
The post CIRS & Mold Illness 101: What it Is appeared first on Meet Dr. Lauryn.
Source/Repost=> https://drlauryn.com/uncategorized/cirs-mold-illness-101-what-it-is/ ** Dr. Lauryn Lax __Nutrition. Therapy. Functional Medicine ** https://drlauryn.com/
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Break The Rules #43: Thyroid Health 101: All You Need to Know with Elle Russ
Your thyroid is the metabolic mothership for ALL bodily process–gut health, hormone health and body composition included. Unfortunately, more than 1 in 10 people will develop a thyroid condition, but upwards of 60% of cases go undiagnosed for years until it’s a full blown disease. s, Thyroid expert Elle Russ tells us all we need to know about not just managing but healing our thyroid health.
Elle Russ is a writer, speaker and show host of the popular Primal Blueprint Podcast. She is the 5th person in the world certified in Ancestral Health and is the leading voice of thyroid health in the Paleo, Primal, and Evolutionary Health movements.  Elle is the author of the bestselling book The Paleo Thyroid Solution and writer of the award-winning documentary HeadHunt Revisted, and much more. She lives and plays in Malibu, California. You can learn more about her and her work at ElleRuss.com
The post Break The Rules #43: Thyroid Health 101: All You Need to Know with Elle Russ appeared first on Meet Dr. Lauryn.
Source/Repost=> https://drlauryn.com/podcast/break-the-rules-43-thyroid-health-101-all-you-need-to-know-with-elle-russ/ ** Dr. Lauryn Lax __Nutrition. Therapy. Functional Medicine ** https://drlauryn.com/
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39 Awesome Foods with Digestive Enzymes to Boost Your Gut Health
Bloating, constipation, skin breakouts or allergies gotcha down? It could be due to lack of natural digestive enzymes.
Your gut is home not only to tons of bacteria (about 100 trillion to be exact—10 times more bacteria than cells in your body), but also home to thousands upon thousands of enzymes (you have approximately 1300 digestive and metabolic enzymes in one human cell alone).
What do digestive enzymes do?
Digestive enzymes help break your food down into nutrients so that your body can absorb them. Different enzymes are found throughout the digestive system—from the saliva in your mouth, to your stomach and pancreas.
The Natural Digestive Enzymes
Enzymes are classified into 3 main types:
Protein specific (protease): Like pepsin, trypsin, chymotrypsin, bromelain, papain
Carbohydrate specific (amylase): Including lactase (for milk), sucrase (complex starches), maltase
Fat specific (lipase)
In addition, there are tons of other components that act like enzymes for nutrient absorption and/or help activate enzymes in the body, such as: Betaine HCL (increases stomach acid), bile (helps further break down fat), fructooligosaccharides and other pre-biotic sugars (help support the growth of friendly intestinal microbes, also inhibits the growth of harmful species).
How are digestive enzymes different from gut bacteria?
Food has to be broken down from things like chicken and spinach into its nutrient pieces: amino acids (from proteins), fatty acids and cholesterol (from fats), and glucose or sugars (from carbohydrates), as well as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This is the role of digestive enzymes.
Gut bacteria also assist in the digestion of our food, but unlike enzymes that specifically play a role in breaking down food into nutrients, your gut bacteria determine how those enzymes work and how your nutrients are used in the body. Gut bacteria also dictate all the metabolic processes of digestion, elimination, immunity, inflammation and detoxification.
What happens if we don’t have enough digestive enzymes?
You can’t break your food down as well and you don’t absorb your nutrients. Without sufficient amounts of digestive enzymes.
How do digestive enzyme deficiencies happen?
A number of triggers may cause digestive enzyme deficiencies such as:
Gut infections (bacterial overgrowth, parasites, etc.)
Chronic stress (without relief, mentally or physically)
Lack of sleep
Lack of water
Poor quality diet and foods
Nutrient deficiencies (eating the same things every day)
Lack of fermentable fibers (fermented foods) and prebiotic foods
Food allergies
Leaky gut
Aging
Autoimmune disease
Low stomach acid
Eating on the go
Not chewing your food enough
Toxic exposure (beauty, cleaning, hygiene, food supplies)
Antibiotic or long term medication use
Poor food hygiene (eating older food, not cleaning your hands properly)
Eating out often (industrial seed oils)
    How do I know if I don’t have enough digestive enzymes?
Signs and symptoms are the best measure of your digestive function. However, sometimes you don’t realize how poor your digestion is because low enzyme function or unhealthy bacteria have been part of your health journey for a long time. Nevertheless, common signs of enzyme deficiency include:
Bloating after meals
Constipation
Skin breakouts
Allergies
Low immunity
Abdominal cramps/pain
GERD or heartburn
Needing laxatives, Gas-X or Tums often
IBS
Thyroid dysfunction
Hormone dysfunction
Autoimmune disease
  What can I do to restore my digestive enzymes?
You don’t have to be stuck with low digestive enzyme function or other gut issues forever. Here are 6 simple steps you can take now include:
1. Drink Water.
Ensure you are drinking half your bodyweight in ounces of water each day. Add lemon to boost your intake.
2. Get Your Beauty Sleep.
Our gut lining repairs as we sleep—aim for 7-9 hours each night.
3. Ditch Stress.
Chronic stress wreaks havoc on our gut repair and healthy digestive function. Our gut desires to be in “parasympathetic mode’ (rest and digest) for optimal function. Stress goes far beyond mental—it includes circadian rhythm dysfunction (staying up too late; eating at off times; shift work); over screen exposure; sedentary lifestyles; overtraining or under-training; nutrient deficiencies—just to name a few things.
4. Boost Stomach Acid.
Low stomach acid is a top driver of gut dysfunction. Stomach acid is essential for helping break food down from the start so your enzymes can go to work—but don’t have to work on over drive (if you don’t have enough stomach acid, your enzymes have ALOT more work to do). Boost stomach acid by adding 1 tbsp. of apple cider vinegar to water with meals, and/or consider HCL supplementation (a supplement of hydrochloric acid with pepsin + Betaine mimics the stomach acid found naturally in your gut).
If currently taking a PPI drug, NSAIDs or pregnant, HCL is not advised until these are not the case; consult with your doctor or a practitioner about transitioning to a more natural version of stomach acid support.
5. Supplement Smart.
Take a daily soil based probiotic, prebiotic and digestive enzyme supplements to boost your natural production. These are like the “multivitamins” of supplements—the only essentials you need to absorb your nutrients and other supplements (if you take any) in the first place. Over time, you may find you can ween off digestive enzymes, but to start, taking 1-2 capsules with meals will make a tremendous amount of difference—given you go with a quality brand.
How do I know what digestive enzymes to buy?!
Buying cheap supplements is typically always a waste of money—you’ll almost never going to get the benefits you’re looking for.  Look for brands that have multiple strains of enzymes (not just one), along with numbers of how many strains are in each one (you don’t just want a generic “proprietary blend”), and a fair price.
No, you don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars on digestive enzymes, but that $10-$20 bottle at Whole Foods or Costco probably won’t cut it either. A few of my faves from reputable, pharmaceutical grade companies include:
Transformation Enzymes: Digest, CarboG (if you eat starches or fruits often) Designs for Health: Digestzymes Biotics: Intezeyme Forte
Experiment for yourself. You will feel the difference when you find the right enzyme for you.
6. Eat Foods with Natural Digestive Enzymes
Let food be thy medicine. Here are the top natural sources of digestive enzymes you can find in foods. Opt for 1-2 servings of digestive enzyme support foods daily:
Avocado
Sauerkraut
Kefir
Kimchi
Grass-fed Yogurt or Coconut Yogurt
Coconut Aminos
Green-Tipped Bananas
Pickled Cucumbers
Papaya
Mangos
Raw Honey
Pineapple
Figs
Kiwi
Grapes
Onions
Garlic
Ginger
Coconut Oil
Bee Pollen
Cucumber
Cantaloupe
  Other digestion-boosting foods that stimulate digestive enzymes include:
Apple Cider Vinegar
Bone Broth
Lemon & Lime
Steamed Beets
Artichokes
Dark Leafy Greens
Cruciferous Veggies: Broccoli, Cauliflower, Brussels sprouts (if not sensitive)
Prebiotic Foods: Cooked & Cooled Potatoes, Green Plantains, Onion
Organic Organ Meats
Chia Seeds
Grass-fed Ghee
Wild Caught Fatty Fish & Extra Virgin Cod Liver Oil
Oregano
Garlic
Turmeric
Cilantro
Fennel
  The post 39 Awesome Foods with Digestive Enzymes to Boost Your Gut Health appeared first on Meet Dr. Lauryn.
Source/Repost=> https://drlauryn.com/gut-health/39-awesome-foods-digestive-enzymes/ ** Dr. Lauryn Lax __Nutrition. Therapy. Functional Medicine ** https://drlauryn.com/
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5 Most Important Steps to Get Rid of Mold in Your Body And Home
So you found you’ve had mold exposure or you have “CIRS” (chronic inflammatory response syndrome”)…now what? The following steps are the best practice for eliminating mold and cleansing from your mold exposure symptoms:
  Step 1. Remove Yourself from Exposure
Step 2. Identify & Reduce the Toxins in Your Environment
Step 3: Reduce the Toxins in Your Body
Step 4: Just Breathe (Clean Air) Step 5: Be Present
    Here are your 5 steps for treating mold exposure, play-by-play:
    Step 1: Remove Yourself from Exposure For everyone, the first and most crucial step in treatment, is to identify where the mold is located and to get away from it. For some this means temporarily moving out of their home in order to remediate it. For others this means completely leaving most everything contaminated behind (mostly porous, fiber containing items like upholstered furniture, rugs, books, clothes)—as if a fire had happened. While it may sound extreme, many anecdotal reports of CIRS sufferers claim it was the only thing that helped them recover. Every body will be different and react differently, and sometimes a short time away from the triggering environment, followed by a reintroduction to it once it is remediated first can be a good first step to deciphering your sensitivity.
  Step 2:  Reduce the Toxins in Your Environment
Out with the old (mold), in with the new. You have two primary options when it comes to reducing toxins in your environment:
  Move
Remediate (remove and repair) the Mold from Your Environment
  Move
This one is easier if you are renting your home, apartment or office space. Many states have no-contest laws in place where, if there is mold present, you may be able to get out of your lease. It essentially entails: uncovering the mold problem, then moving yourself to a non-moldy environment (with a prior mold inspection recommended). It also entails parting with some of your contaminated items.
  Note on Ridding of Items: Mycotoxin removal is nearly impossible for many furnishings and personal items (especially books, linens, towels, etc.) made from soft and porous materials; however, it may be possible to store questionable contents elsewhere (some clothes, closed books) until your health has improved or until the client has become less sensitive enough to withstand exposure.See more on what to toss and what to clean below.
  Remediate the Mold from Your Environment
Mold remediation begins with identifying the source of mold—visible, smell, testing, followed by “remediating” and cleaning—a complete removal of the mold.
  Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy. They are not necessarily practicing “mold remediation.” Mold remediation focuses on getting mold levels back to normal, natural levels by both removing the issue (sometimes via demolition), then cleaning and purging the affected area.
  You may be able to clean some of the mold yourself, but the process of remediation is best accomplished with professional help. It includes several steps:
  Remediation Process
Step 1: Inspect & Assess Mold Damage
Step 2: Contain the Mold
Step 3: Filter the Air
Step 4: Clean All Surfaces & HVAC’s
Step 5: Remove or Demolish Mold & Mold-Infested Materials Step 6: Clean or Toss Belongings
Step 7: Final Cleaning & Fogging Step 8: Restoration
Step 9: Ongoing Maintenance & Upkeep
    Mold Remediation 101
Step 1: Inspect & Assess Mold Damage Identify all sources of mold that require “remediation” through the assessment process (ERMI and inspection).
  When checking for mold in your home, a few essentials to check include:
  start with ceilings above showers and in bathrooms. Air conditioning systems and ductwork commonly accumulate mold. Attics are also a hotspot: Bathroom fans that work to draw moisture from the room are often vented to the attic instead of outside, or the vent may be leaking. This accumulation of moisture can cause black mold to grow in an attic.
  If you have a front-loading washing machine, check it, too. The door’s rubber seal traps in moisture, creating the perfect environment for mold. Other unsuspecting spots include home water pipes, and mattresses.
  Step 2: Contain Mold
Hire a “Remediation” specialist to address your mold issues. Typically, the mold will have to be “contained” with a containment before any construction or removal of the mold begins. A containment is a structure that closes off the affected area in order to clean the outside environment, as well as get rid of the mold. Rooms with demolition activities—such as knocking out a wall or ripping out paneling or carpeting—must be contained, with contaminated building material removed. All porous surfaces must be sealed since particles lingering in the air can attach to surfaces once disrupted. Protective clothing, negative air pressure, containment barriers and HEPA air scrubbers should be used by the professional remediators.
  Step 3: Filter the Air The professional should also use specialized filtration equipment for the home to capture microscopic mold spores out of the air. Powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in process.
  Step 4: Clean All Surfaces & HVAC’s
During the remediation process, in addition to removing any mold sources, all surfaces should be cleaned as well. Use HEPA vacuuming followed by damp wiping with a cleaning agent that does not leave a residue.
  For most surfaces, terrycloth towels soaked with a cleaning agent that leaves no residue can be used to scrub off residues during pre-cleaning and before air cleaning. Surfaces should be visibly clean to the point there is no visible dust when viewing surfaces with a bright light or flashlight.
Here are some specific surface cleaning guidelines:
  HEPA Vacuuming.
All porous or coarse surfaces should be HEPA vacuumed. A professional can help do this. Note: The HEPA vacuum should be used only for pre-cleaning. Most HEPA vacuums cannot remove all respirable particles, and because the leaked particles are small, they are difficult to remove from the air. A clear sign of HEPA vacuum failure is a strong musty odor when vacuuming.
  Porous Surfaces (Wood, framing)
Unfinished wood surfaces (e.g., framing lumber) and concrete surfaces in areas with visible microbial contamination should be cleaned using highly concentrated hydrogen peroxide cleaner according to label directions. Once dry, wood surfaces should be HEPA vacuumed.
  Concrete Surfaces.
Concrete should be sealed with a clear penetrating encapsulant using an airless paint sprayer. (Sprayers can be rented from Sunbelt Rentals.) Concrete flooring can be encapsulated with other materials if flooring finishes like tile will be installed in an airtight manner. This exception does not apply for floating floor products.
  Wood Surface.
Dry wood surfaces should be coated with an antifungal paint containing anionic silver if there is a moisture concern on external walls or crawlspaces. Unless an independent inspection will be performed, do not use paint with color pigmentation: You must be able to view the substrate to check for acceptable final conditions, including the removal of surface dust checked with a flashlight. Old wood floors must be sealed with a sandable primer or oils specific to wood flooring.
  HVAC (heating, ventilation, air system)
Heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system (HVAC) and air ducts must be cleaned as well. It should be cleaned according to National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) standards after all building materials are demolished and all surfaces are cleaned to the point of no visible dust. If the old HVAC units will be re-installed, the coils must be cleaned at the same time. Sheet metal ducting and porous wooden floor joists may need to be removed if they cannot be cleaned. Rusted ducting must be replaced. Openings into wall voids should be inspected to ensure they are not heavily impacted with dust build-up. Humidifiers should not be connected to HVAC fan-coil units.
  Step 5: Remove or Demolish Mold & Mold-Infested Materials Once the basic surface cleaning has been accomplished, it’s time to officially remove and/or demolish the mold.
  The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. Professionals use antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and to help prevent new colonies from forming. You can also use essential oils and probiotic treatments as well. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and carpeting, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth.
  Step 6: Clean or Toss Belongings
  Should I get rid of everything?!
  It’s a question most everyone who experiences “mycotoxin illness” or mold exposure asks, and it’s a topic that website forums and Facebook groups go crazy over—with many folks swearing up and down the only way to heal is to get rid of everything.
  It’s vital to note that, while you do kill the mold source via remediation, myctoxins from the mold in your environment are what are “dangerous” and what make people very sick.
  No One-Size-Fits-All Mold Detox
  Depending on your personal sensitivities, some items may be salvageable. Some people find that, after initially cleaning items and storing them in a contained plastic box, eventually they can slowly introduce them into their new living space, one at a time, and discover what can and cannot stay.  However, other patients report the “best” approach for them was to leave the majority of things behind and start afresh.
At the very least, everything must be cleaned properly, professionally sanitized, for mold and mycotoxins or be discarded, including: furniture, decorative items, kitchenware, curtains, clothing, pictures, frames, kitchenware and other restorable items.
  That said, you must do what is best for you, while keeping in mind: When in doubt, throw it out!
    Mycotoxin 101: The Invisible Health Issues
Even though you may not see “visible” mold on the clothing, books, or other contents of your home, this does NOT matter, nor does it mean that those items are safe. In fact, nold spores—especially those of mycotoxin-producing molds— are often invisible to the human eye—approximately 3-40 microns (note: a human hair is approximately 100 microns thick). Mold spores are so small that as many as 250,000 can fit on a pin head, and a person can breathe in as many as 750,000 spores in an hour. Mycotoxins provoke oxidative stress, neurological problems, DNA damage, and disease.
  Mold spores—and the mycotoxins in them—are only visible to the unaided eye when mold colonies grow. These colonies can have billions of spores. So, if you are actually seeing the mold on a wall, flooring, or on objects inside your home, you are dealing with a huge health issue. The mycotoxin gasses emitted by the molds penetrate materials, are very sticky, and can attach to practically everything in your environment consequently making you sick.
  If too many dead spores from mold remain (even after remediation), the space or item may be unsafe even though the mold is dead—especially porous materials including: furniture (wood, upholstered furniture), bedding, papers, books, insulation, carpeting, ceiling tiles, etc. Some of the items in your home with the highest mold counts may look perfectly clean and safe. Many items act as mold reservoirs and may need to be thrown out even if there is no visible mold on them.
    Proper Cleaning Protocol for Mold Exposed Items You Want to Keep
  Step 1: Stage Your Cleaning Area. Set up a “staging area” in your garage, carport, or other covered area outside of your home where you can physically get things out of the home, assess them, and attempt to remediate the things you feel are worth it
  Step 2: Use Cleaning Bins. Purchase large plastic bins with lids that seal to put contents you wish to try to save inside. The lids must completely seal to keep things air tight. This will allow you to transport things inside the bins without the risk of cross contamination.
  Step 3: Get a HEPA Vaccum. You will also need a HEPA vacuum with a hose and upholstery attachments and a handheld steamer. The vacuum and steamer are for cleaning upholstered items like furniture, curtains, etc.
  Step 4: Fog the Area Before You Start. Get a home Sanitizer Fogger machine and EC3 Mold Solution Concentrate to put in it. The fogger is a must if you are going to attempt to do any remediation or cleaning yourself. (You can also hire someone to come help you do the fogging).
  Step 5: Remove Clothing & Other Items You Wish to Save from House. Remove all clothing, linens and items from the house. Take it out of the closets and drawers and put it into the plastic bins. Close the bins and get them all outside into your staging area. Once in the garage, fog the outside of the bins, and keep them sealed. Allow them to air dry. (All of the fogging is to make sure you aren’t putting the mold into your car when you are trying to transport this stuff if you are going to take it elsewhere—like a laundry mat). For any other “contents,” suit up with plastic gloves, a dry mask and “scrub coat”, go inside, place it in a bin, seal the bins, and bring it into the staging area. Once there, remove it from your bin, fog it, and allow it to air dry.
  Step 6: Use the Sun. After cleaning items, set them out in the sunlight—especially bedding and furniture if you are saving them. Sunlight destroys mycotoxins. Exposure to sunlight may in part explain why mold counts can be high outside and yet moldy people don’t get sick from being outdoors as the mycotoxins coating mold spores have been rendered inactive.
  Mold Cleaning Hacks
Additional cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings may include:
  Clothes: Use Borax, EC3 Laundry Additive (enzymes) and laundry detergent in a mold-free washer and dryer. In general, clothes are much less of a problem if they are laundered properly.
Linens & Blankets: Get rid of all pillows, comforters and duvets, loose cushions, area or throw rugs that are not washable, and mattresses. Discard lampshades as well. These items are extremely difficult to save.
Books: Books are difficult. If the books are on a shelf and not opened, HEPA vacuum each one. Throw out any you do not absolutely love or need. If possible, you can try removing the books and photos from the home as you have done before with other things, lay them out and fog them. Then, allow them to air dry. I would remove the outer cover of the books first, and possibly even remove the binding, so that the moisture can escape easier.
Household Items (lamps, clocks, etc.): Use hydrogen peroxide, EC3 and/or CitraSafe enzyme based cleaners plus a rag to wipe clean.
Leather (Furniture, bags, jackets, etc.): Use quaternary cleaners on leather. Vacuum the nooks and crannies of the piece of furniture and do the same thing again.
Dishes & Utensils. Dishwasher as normal. Dishes and kitchenware are some of the easiest things to clean.
Stuffed Animals: Place stuffed toy inside a clean pillowcase. Start washing machine on a regular wash cycle with a hot water wash selected. Add detergent and 2 oz. of the EC3 Laundry Additive to the machine while the water is filling up. Close the washing machine lid, and allow the machine to agitate and swish the water around with the toy in it. Turn off the machine after agitation to allow the stuffed animal to soak for at least 30 minutes. Turn the machine back on to allow it to complete its wash cycle. Remove the stuffed animal from the machine and pillowcase. Take it outside into the sunlight and allow it to dry completely, or leave it inside the pillowcase and toss both into the dryer to dry completely with gentle heat.
Furniture: For wood or non-porous furniture, remove it from the home and bring it to your staging area. Non-upholstered furniture can be wiped down with a spray made from the EC3 Mold Solution Concentrate and distilled water, or can be fogged. Just make certain to get every nook and cranny and underside. Note: Upholstered furniture is more difficult. You must HEPA vacuum it first. The dust that gets into the upholstery has lots of mold spores in it. Some items can be fogged. Remember, though, that upholstered items have “stuffing,” so not only is the mold in the fabric, but also in the insides of the item.
  Above All Remember: When in doubt, throw it out
That should be the first pillar of your thinking throughout this process. No tangible item is worth losing your health nor all your new items and home. You don’t want to have to start all over again, because of some contaminated item.
    Step 7: Final Home Cleaning (Final Wipe Down + Fogging) Final cleaning procedures (wiping down surfaces) should follow in each area once demolition and remediation is completed and after the HVAC system has been cleaned. Line the floor with painter’s plastic to protect the floor from particles.
  “Fogging” or “Air washing” the area and furniture or items in each room may also be integrated to remove these super small toxins.
  Fogging
Fogging is a technique using a machine (fogger) that blasts the air with an air cleaning solution to rid of fine and ultrafine particles. Treating mold with foggers will kill and remove mold spores, and slow the rate at which it returns. But remember after spores are dead the second part of remediation must take place: removal.
  Mold fog regularly comes in two forms that are designed to work effectively in hard to reach places. For smaller spaces, prevention, and minor mold issues, an aerosol mold fogger is often sufficient. Concrobium aerosols are often used for less severe mold issues, and when mold is caught early. Larger spaces with more invasive mold problems may require a different method, like the use of cold fog machine. A plastic floor liner should be used when the process starts.
  Air Washing
Involves using a large 2,000 cfm fan along with numerous box fans and sunlight/fresh air to dry out mycotoxins from items. portions of the house are flushed with outside air in a step-wise fashion. You want to make sure to exhaust dirty air out the leeward side of the house while opening windows for fresh air on the side where the breeze is coming from. The key is that you do not want to be drawing dirty air back in.
  Step 8: Restoration Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.
  Step 9: Ongoing Maintenance & Upkeep Prevent future mold exposure with ongoing maintenance of your property:
Fix plumbing leaks, water problems, gutter and roof problems ASAP; Dry everything
Scrub mold off any surfaces with detergent and water; Dry completely.
Toss out absorbent or porous materials (tiles, carpet, upholstered furniture, linens, clothes, books, cardboard)
Keep air conditioning drip pans clean and drain lines unobstructed for proper flow.
Ensure the ground slopes away from the building foundation so water doesn’t enter or collect.
Keep indoor relative humidity at 30 to 50 percent. Vent bathrooms; install an inline dehumidifer connected to your HVAC system
Don’t install carpeting in areas moisture is present (like bathrooms)
    Step 3: Reduce the Toxins in Your Body
  The inside is just as important as the outside (i.e. getting rid of mold in your environment)—detoxification included.
  It’s safe to assume that if you have mold exposure and you feel badly, you probably have mycotoxins in your system. Even healthy people have a certain amount of mycotoxins. Most people do not need elaborate protocols to purge mycotoxins from their system. With a nutrient-dense diet and eradication of mold from your environment, mycotoxins can gradually and naturally be removed from your system.
  That said, mold can grow inside your body if you have a weaker immune system— especially inside body cavities like nasal passages and sinuses, the a perfect warm, moist environment. Those with suppressed immune systems (such as those with autoimmune disease, Lyme, chronic fatigue syndrome, chronic illness, reoccurring infections or illness, etc.) are more susceptible to mycotoxin damage.
  Boosting your immune system and detoxification pathways is imperative after mold exposure to boost recovery, and is best accomplished once you’ve removed yourself from the moldy environment. Recommendations for cleansing and detoxification, along with gut loving supports (a probiotic and digestive enzymes,  include:
  Binders (Coconut Charcoal, Modified Citrus Pectin, Pyrophyllite clay, or Chlorella) What it does: Binders “bind” to toxins in the body to clear our build up, remove biofilm in the gut, and prevent further toxicity or poisoning. Fiber also helps create bulk in your stools t encourage elimination and healthy bacteria growth. Reach for partially hydrolyzed guar gum or glucomannan.
Dose: 1-2 capsules or doses (of binders), twice per day, with water, away from meals on an empty stomach. (Note: Do not use charcoal if you are more prone to constipation); For fiber, take 1/2-1 tsp. once per day with meals.
  Prebiotic Fiber
What it does: Helps create bulk in your stools to encourage elimination and healthy bacteria growth. Reach for an easily digestible source like partially hydrolyzed guar gum or glucomannan in powder form as a supplement.
Dose: Take 1/2-1 tsp. once per day with meals; Eat a variety of vegetables and some fruits—especially pre-biotics and soluble fibers like cooked and cooled sweet potatoes, roasted garlic, winter and summer squash, cruciferous veggies (cooked), leeks, onion, apples, blueberries, green tipped bananas
  Liposomal Glutathione with N-Acetyl Cysteine. What it does: Mycotoxins deplete the body of enzymes that make glutathione — a key antioxidant for fighting free radical damage and removing toxins from the body. Supplementing with glutathione can help with repletion. It supports the body’s detoxification system, provides antioxidant protection, and supports mitochondrial resistance to free radical damage.
Dose: 1 tsp. 2-3 times per day.
  Liposomal Curcumin + Boswellia Akba
What it does: Eliminates inflammation and supports detoxification pathways as well.
Dose: 1 tsp. Cur cumin + 1 dose Boswellia AKBA 2-3 times per day
  Adrenal Adaptogen
What it does: Supports your HPA Axis to combat the “stress” response. Try cordyceps, reishi, Relora, or ashwaganda, or a blend.
Dose: 1 capsule, 2-3 times per day.
  Clear Your Sinuses
If you’ve been continuously inhaling mold in your environment, your body’s healing systems will not be able to function properly and mold may colonize your sinuses since your sinuses are a warm, moist environment with mucous and other organic material to feed on. (Even if you do not have obvious sinus symptoms, your nose is always a potential reservoir for fungal growth and colonization just by nature of how we breathe and because of the warm, moist nasal terrain). Recommendation: Try Daily Nasal Rinsing with a homemade saline-based irrigation system—Boil filtered water, cool it to a warm temperature and and pour in to a large sterilized salad bowl. Next, add salt; (about ½ teaspoon for every cup of water) along with a few drops of iodine, and/or xylitol—a sugar alcohol that inhibits the growth of nose bacteria.
  To get the rinse in your nose, use a Netipot or simply place your bowl on a counter and bend forward with your spine parallel to the floor— don’t tip your head back or you’ll gag. Cloose your eyes, then “drink” through your nose. Note: The solution won’t go down your throat if you are at the proper angle; instead, it will collect in the back of your mouth. When your mouth is full, spit the water out in the sink, and repeat.
  Sweat. Daily—a mix between exercise, warmed yoga and outdoors/fresh air.
  Infrared Sauna. Also do at least 2-3 times per week to help rid the body of mycotoxins through sweat.
  Nourish Your Cells
When given the right tools your body innately wants to heal itself…starting in your gut. Steer clear of processed carbohydrates and sugars, while nourishing your cells with nutrient-dense, whole “gut loving” foods, including:
  Fermented Foods (1-2 servings/day; sauerkraut, kefir, organic plain yogurt)
Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tbsp in water)
Meat broth & bone broth
Organ Meats (capsule or ground in food)
Cleansing Teas (especially: rooibos, honeybush, green, black teas)
Unsweetened Cocoa (polyphenol-enriched cocoa extract was able to reduce free radicals produced by mycotoxins)
Dark leafy greens
Fresh organic herbs (cilantro, dandelion, basil, oregano, peppermint)
Grass-fed ghee and butter (for butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that helps bacteria fight off toxins in the body, and supports the health and healing of cells in the small and large intestine)
  Essential Oil Infusion
Essential oils have been around fro centuries, used medicinally and therapeutically to cleanse and heal. Get an oil diffuser for your home and diffuse: oregano, thyme, cinnamon, clove and tea tree oil.
    Step 4: Just Breathe (Clean Air)
People spend more than 90 percent of their time indoors (upwards of 22 to 23 house per day) and the concentrations of air pollutants may be two-and-a-half times higher indoors than outdoors.
indoor air quality is influenced by a number of factors including:
  Air pollutants (carbon monoxide, chemical compounds, lead, nitrogen dioxide etc.)
Air sources (heating and air units, and air purifiers)
Emissions (off gases) from those sources
Ventilation quality
Absorption of compounds by materials (furniture, clothes, upholstery, etc.)
Temperature and humidity
  To help combat air pollutants, an indoor air filters and air sanitizer can be game changers. You can buy a large HEPA filter for your home and air sanitizers for individual rooms. However, be warned: Not all air filters and sanitizers are created equal. According to the EPA as well as Consumer Reports, many manufacturers falsely advertise that ozone cleaners are air cleaners. This is false. Ensure you get a quality machine.
  Indoor Air Purifier/Filter
Air purifiers remove some or most of those pollutants from your indoor air. They work by drawing room air in and through a filter or combination of filters, then blowing out fresh, clean air. A good air purifier removes allergens, dust, gases, and other pollutants from the room air, leaving behind clean air for your lung’s benefit. A HEPA filter is the “gold standard” to have in the home for helping remove ultrafine particles and mycotoxins from the air. Look for air purifiers that are CARB certified (California Air Resource Board). CARB is the most stringent testing agency of consumer products, and if you’re unsure, just ask!
Recommendations: Austin Air, IQAir Note: HEPA filters will do a great job of capturing particles, but not the VOCs. To remove other VOCs, you’ll need an air sanitizer. Also, remember that regular filter replacement is key to getting to the most out of your HEPA purifier while minimizing wear on the motor.
  Indoor Air Sanitizer or “Sterilizer”
An air sanitizer takes your air to the next level. Rather than simply block every single contaminant in the air like air filters do, air sanitizers destroy microorganisms and cause them to be ineffective—especially “VOC’s” (volatile organic compounds are carbon-based chemicals and “off gases” released by materials like carpets, vinyl flooring, paints, and upholstery fabrics that become more problematic when mold spores are also involved).
  Air sanitizers kill viruses, bacteria and molds that can cause diseases or exacerbate illnesses, as well as break down volatile organic chemicals that affect the sinuses and lungs. Sanitizers are particularly great for putting in smaller rooms, in conjunction with your larger HEPA filter for your who home.
Recommendation: Air Oasis, UV4Life, Germ Guardian Note: Run your air sanitizer only when you’re not in the room and turn them off when you enter due to the small amounts of ozone that they release.
  Step 5: Be Present
Face it, mold “recovery” can be overwhelming and it can also feel somewhat extreme, emotionally and financially draining.
  The key to keep in mind, no matte the severity of your mycotoxin exposure: When given the right tools, your body innately wants to heal itself.
  Think:
Removing yourself from the environmental exposure
Supporting your immune system and gut health
Being present to your life today—not caught up in endless social media scrolling, Dr. Google overwhelm, and living in fear, instead of peace. The sun will come out tomorrow.
The post 5 Most Important Steps to Get Rid of Mold in Your Body And Home appeared first on Meet Dr. Lauryn.
Source/Repost=> https://drlauryn.com/uncategorized/get-rid-of-mold-body-home/ ** Dr. Lauryn Lax __Nutrition. Therapy. Functional Medicine ** https://drlauryn.com/
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drlaurynlax · 5 years
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Break The Rules #44: Mold Illness Recovery with Jennifer Nitrio
After bringing her daughter earthside in early 2009, Jennifer left a decade long career as an executive recruiter behind to focus her energies on mothering. What was born of that journey (and her crazy adventures with her own mold crisis) is what propelled Jennifer forward to create her first website Hybrid Rasta Mama in February 2011. Hybrid Rasta Mama became a successful website born from Jennifer’s passion about the benefits of CBD oil, coconut oil, toxic mold awareness, holistic health, and natural living. She frequently shares allergy friendly recipes on her site as well as DIY herbal remedies, and natural cleaning recipes.
So much has changed since those early days. While Jennifer loves Hybrid Rasta Mama and the eclectic content she poured her heart into, times have changed and she decided to focus her energies on something she tried to run away from but that kept pulling her back…mold. As such, Jennifer created Mold Help For You, a website that tackles everything from mold prevention, testing for mold, removing mold, leaks…. Basically everything mold from discovery to recovery.  It launches in May 2019.
Jennifer is a Certified Mold Inspector from the International Association of Certified Mold Inspectors. Her coursework includes How To Perform Mold Inspections, Advanced Mold Inspection Training, How To Inspect For Moisture Intrusion, How To Inspect the Exterior, Residential Plumbing Overview, and Indoor Air Quality. She is also a member of the International Society for Environmentally Acquired Illness. Her earlier years afforded her the opportunity to graduate with honors with a Bachelor’s Degree in Ethnic Studies. She is a lifetime member of the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society and Golden Key Honor Society.
Jennifer has always had a passion for researching everything to death and a passion for writing. She is not afraid to tackle tough topics and doesn’t get embarrassed by much. She is very self-deprecating and apparently Jennifer’s audience loves that about her.
Links:
https://moldhelpforyou.com
https://hybridrastamama.com
The post Break The Rules #44: Mold Illness Recovery with Jennifer Nitrio appeared first on Meet Dr. Lauryn.
Source/Repost=> https://drlauryn.com/podcast/break-the-rules-44-mold-illness-recovery-with-jennifer-nitrio/ ** Dr. Lauryn Lax __Nutrition. Therapy. Functional Medicine ** https://drlauryn.com/
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