Hi Dave:

It is nice to hear from you. :-) I"m sorry to hear that you, too, have been experiencing discomfort. It certainly is not a fun ride. Here's more info that I can provide you based on my experiences...

It has been a rocky road since March 2009. Before trying any type of therapy, my integrative physician thought it would be wise for me to do the Metametrix Comprehensive Stool Test (Profile 2100). Since they do molecular testing w/ the stool specimens, they'd be able to better pinpoint what my body's dealing with so we can plan a better protocol.

Fortunately, there are medical insurance plans (ie. Blue Cross Blue Shield) that cover Metametrix stool testing now. Two years ago, I had to pay $395 out of pocket (which was already discounted through my naturopathic physician at the time). NOTE: To find out if your medical insurance covers this type of testing, it's always wise to call beforehand.

It took about 2 weeks for my physician to receive my stool test results from Metametrix. He called me to come over to his office so that he can review them with me. That is when he came up with the protocol which I started about 2 weeks ago. Since then, this is what I've observed:

1. Liquid Multivitamins ("Nature's Plus: Source of Life"): helps with restoring energy; replenishes vitamins & minerals; Alleviates brain fog.

2. Vitamin D (1 Drop under tongue/day): helps with restoring energy; brain fog.

3. Vitamin B-12 (1 pellet under tongue/day): helps with restoring energy; brain fog.

4. Probiotics ("Klaire Labs Ther-Biotic Complete Powder"): I add 1/4 Tspn of powder to a cup and mix it with at least 5 Tbspns of apple juice. Since the powder tends to get clumpy in liquid, I use a spoon to stir & smash it up in the cup before drinking it. The probiotics help to build the good bacteria in my GI tract so that it can digest food better. Also, the bacteria can help to destroy the candida and parasites in my gut.

5. Oil of Oregano ("Gaia Herbs" capsule): I take 1 capsule 2 times daily. This is my physician's choice of herbs to use when fighting Candida and parasites.
From my experience, it's wise to have something in your stomach when taking this capsule. Otherwise, it can irritate (an already sensitive) stomach.

6. Iron/Blood Builder Supplement (MegaFood): helps to restore my iron levels for energy and decrease brain fog

7. Apple Cider Vinegar ("Bragg's"): I add 2 tbspns to my water bottle and drink it throughout the day (at work). This helps to alkalize the GI tract - therefore, making it a less desirable pH environment for Candida and parasites to thrive in. Also, it's supposed to improve digestion.

8. Watch your diet: AVOID ALL TYPES OF SUGAR!
- Stick with mostly vegetables!
- Ok to eat fruits (except the sweet/sugary ones). My doc recommends
green apples.
- Eat brown rice instead of white rice.
- AVOID ALL WHEAT PRODUCTS - they feed the Candida BIG TIME! I was eating everything wheat-related -- and got a "4" on my Candida/fungal analysis on the Metametrix Test. **Per my Dr: It's best to eat "sprouted breads" (ie. Ezekiel loaves of bread-found in Trader Joe's or Freezer section at Whole Foods). If not sprouted, then sourdough or rye breads are the better ones to consume rather than wheat.

Overall, I'm feeling somewhat better. I think that the multivitamins and my increased vegetable/fiber diet has helped to prevent me from being constipated. I used to be so lethargic w/ much brain fog - that I'd sleep non -stop all weekend. Now, I'm finding a little more energy to get things done around the home.

You've mentioned that the multivitamins, Vit. B and iron supplements can both strengthen one's immune system, while allowing the Candida/parasites/bugs to develop more resistance... Hmm, that's an interesting point! If so, then that's certainly something that doctors should take into consideration. I'll have to google it and ask the folks at the local holistic drug store more about it. Thanks for bringing it up. :-)

Well, I got on a roll here! I hope that this info helps you and others. Knowledge is power... and I felt empowered after getting the comprehensive stool testing done. Without it, I felt like I was going after an enemy in the dark.

Take care and best wishes.

- Alegre -