(Please note: This post originally appeared on ProHealth.com on October 22, 2016)
To heal from Lyme disease, co-infections, and other biotoxin related illnesses (like toxic mold exposure), we must help our bodies detoxify to reduce Herxheimer reactions and chronic inflammation. Thankfully, there are many options available to us to lessen the toxic load.
In my Lyme support group, I often see patients trying to navigate the complicated world of toxin binders. What works for one person often doesn’t work for another, which leaves many patients confused and frustrated. In this article, I discuss seven toxin binders that can support the body’s detoxification processes, eliminate unhealthy waste, and help your body to heal. Keep in mind you may require a trial of a few products before you find one or more that works well for you.
As a word of caution: please discuss these binders with your doctor before incorporating them into your treatment. Almost all of them must be taken a few hours away from medications, herbs, or supplements to prevent them from absorbing them along with the toxins.
1) Cholestyramine- Cholestyramine (CSM) is a prescription medication that lowers cholesterol. In additional, biotoxin illness expert, Richie Shoemaker, M.D., states cholestyramine can legally and ethically be used as an off-label medication to bind biotoxins from mold and Lyme disease in the gut and assist the body with successfully excreting these harmful elements. Since CSM binds intensely to the biotoxins, it prevents them from being reabsorbed. As long as you aren’t repeatedly exposed to biotoxins, over time, CSM will remove them from the body’s tissues. Your doctor should provide you with specific instructions on how to take this medication and may also advise you to adhere to a strict diet. For some people, CSM is a useful tool to help the body recover.
2) Welchol- Welchol is another prescription medication that may provide a suitable alternative to those who find cholestyramine too harsh. Dr. Shoemaker reports that Welchol is approximately 25% as effective as CSM for removing mold or Lyme biotoxins from the body, so it’s a much gentler medication. Welchol may be a better pick for patients with severe sensitivities, and the frequency of the dosage can be slowly increased for greater effectiveness. Like CSM, Welchol binds to toxins and transports them out of the body through the gastrointestinal tract. If you take Welchol, you will likely receive specific instructions about how to time your dosages throughout the day, as well as dietary recommendations to maximize its potency.
3) Bentonite Clay- Bentonite clay is a consumable clay originating from the ash created by volcanoes. It has been used for centuries around the world to help the body detox from illnesses. It soaks up toxins, heavy metals, and other harmful materials. Additionally, bentonite clay may be a beneficial source of bioavailable nutrients. It also contains antiviral and antibacterial properties. However, buy somatomax more research is needed on this subject to confirm the accuracy of these ideas. In some people, bentonite clay may cause digestive upset, so you need to take it with eight to 16 ounces of water per teaspoon to prevent constipation.
4) Activated Charcoal- Many Lyme patients find activated charcoal to be an effective, low-cost alternative for reducing the body’s inflammatory responses to various toxins. Like the other options, activated charcoal absorbs adverse substances and helps the body properly dispose of them. This supplement has an excellent safety record and provides a subtler method of detox than some of the other supplements and medications.
Renowned researcher and naturopathic physician, Amy Yasko, Ph.D., proposes following activated charcoal with a high dose of magnesium citrate to flush the bowels and rid the body of excess ammonia from Lyme toxins or genetic mutations like CBS.
5) Chlorella- Chlorella is a blue-green algae rich in vitamins, minerals, iron, and amino acids. This toxin binder works particularly well for removing heavy metals from the body; some biological dentists will use chlorella in conjunction with removing mercury amalgams to prevent this unwanted metal from entering the bloodstream. Since chlorella mobilizes metals, many health care providers tell their patients to begin slowly and work up to the desired dose to prevent unfavorable side effects.
6) Zeolite- Zeolite is a popular substance and is used as part of many herbal Lyme treatment protocols. Composed of a wide array of natural minerals, zeolite powder chelates metals and draws them out of the body. However, some doctors suggest that it’s a weak binder of mercury; though it may work better on other heavy metals. Also, some physicians will combine zeolite with some of the previously mentioned binders for a balanced detox plan.
7) Pectin- Pectin is a powdered fiber supplement made from apples, plums, grapefruits, or other citrus fruits. It helps to detoxify the body by sweeping up biotoxins in the gut caused by mold, Lyme, and other infections. In addition, pectin binds mildly with heavy metals. Many people say that pectin is easier to handle than some of the more aggressive detoxifiers. Like zeolite, pectin works well in combination with other binders and is relatively inexpensive.
Although this isn’t a comprehensive list, these are a few of the more common toxin binders recommended to Lyme patients. However, it’s always best to consult with your practitioner for more individualized recommendations before beginning any supplement or medication.
Which toxin binders have you benefited from on your journey towards healing? Please leave a comment.
References:
10 Proven Bentonite Clay Benefits and Uses. (n.d.). Dr. Axe. Retrieved from https://draxe.com/10-bentonite-clay-benefits-uses/
Balch, J.F., & Stengler, M. (2004). Prescription for Natural Cures. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons.
Shoemaker, R. (n.d). What to Expect from Cholestyramine (CSM). Retrieved from https://www.survivingmold.com/docs/CSM_Fact_Sheet.pdf
Yasko, A. (n.d). General Important Information to Guide You on Your Road to Wellness. Retrieved from http://www.knowyourgenetics.com/media/pdf/General%20Important%20Information%20To%20Guide%20You%20on%20Your%20Road%20To%20Wellness.pdf