Toxic Overload and 13 Ways to Detox Naturally

Feeling lethargic, not up to your old self, perhaps getting sick easily or experiencing depression? Maybe a serious look into detoxing might offer some relief or refresh your system. The following article was taken from The Candida Diet blog, and obviously it was written specifically for people with candida. That said, the article extends to anyone wanting to purge the buildup of excessive chemicals and environmental toxins we are all exposed to through just daily living, food shopping and consuming, and simply moving around in our environment.

13 Ways You Can Detox Naturally

Today’s modern lifestyle is a minefield of toxins. There are chemicals and pollutants in our air, our food, our drinking water and even the products we apply to our skin. Although there are ways to minimize the amount of toxins we encounter, the truth is that they’re almost impossible to avoid completely.

Unfortunately, these toxins can have a catastrophic effect on your body. Everyday toxins accumulate in the body over time, building up to dangerous levels. They’re absorbed by your cells, muscles, and soft tissues. Eventually, they weaken your entire immune system.

Research has shown that chemical pollutants can suppress normal immune function, increasing your susceptibility to infections and diseases. Considering 70 percent of your immune system is in your gut, this increases your susceptibility to pathogenic bacteria, fungi and yeast – such as Candida overgrowth.

The good news is that there are many ways to detoxify your body naturally, through diet, supplements, and your daily habits. Make these techniques a regular part of your daily lifestyle and you’ll be on your way to a toxin-free, healthier you!

Natural Detoxification Through Diet

Here are some simple, detoxifying changes that you can make to your diet today.

1.  Increase your water intake

Water helps flush toxins out of your body in the form of sweat, tears, and urine. Choose pure, filtered water from a safe source.

2.  Cut the sugar

Sugar not only increases calorific intake, but can cause inflammation and feed candida. Artificial sweeteners are no better – they’re also toxins!

3.  Eat organic

Many commercially-produced fruits and vegetables contain dangerous pesticides and chemicals, while meats contain antibiotics and hormones. Organic food has more nutrients and fewer pesticides.

4.  Cut processed foods

These often contain preservatives and artificial flavorings that are not only toxic, but increase your appetite.

5.  Add fermented foods and drinks to your diet

These are an excellent source of probiotics which help fight pathogens and yeast. Probiotics also strengthen the immune system, and improve digestion and detoxification.

Sauerkraut is a good source of calcium glucarate, a powerful detoxifier. Research has shown that calcium glucarate helps prevent cancer of the breast and colon.

Natural Liver Detoxification

The liver is the largest organ in the body. It’s also the organ primarily responsible for detoxification: flushing out the various toxins we encounter in our diet, lifestyle and environment. Every one of our body systems is dependent on the liver for ‘cleaning’ the blood of impurities.

The more toxins we ingest, imbibe, and encounter, the greater the burden on the liver. Signs of an overloaded liver include fatigue, headaches, digestive issues, skin problems, and weakened immune function.

A number of supplements can support liver function, including:

6.  Milk thistle

This herb is famous for its active ingredient, silymarin. Silymarin is an important antioxidant and nature’s very own liver nurse. It supports and protects the liver by optimizing liver function and detoxification as well as repairing damage done to liver cells caused by disease, alcohol and drugs.

The active ingredients in milk thistle act like your liver’s own personal gatekeeper. It binds to the outside of the liver cell and when toxins enter the body, it fends them off by blocking entry to the liver cell.

Silymarin also takes care of toxins that have already found their way into the cell, seeking them out and neutralizing them. Neutralized toxins are then either removed from the bloodstream or converted into water-soluble forms which can be sent out of the body as harmless waste (through the bowels, in your urine or in sweat).

Clinical studies have shown that these mechanisms help to maintain liver health and significantly reduce the risk of long-term liver damage.

7.  Molybdenum

Molybdenum is a mineral naturally present in many foods. It’s especially important to the liver in flushing out toxins.

Molybdenum is required for helping the body make several detoxification enzymes, including aldehyde dehydrogenase and aldehyde oxidase. These enzymes work to neutralize acetaldehyde, a harmful metabolic byproduct of alcohol, yeast and fungi.

Candida overgrowth often leads to an excess of this neurotoxin, causing it to build up in the blood, liver and other tissues. This seriously burdens the immune system.

Molybdenum also helps the body synthesize enzymes that oxidize the sulfites in preservatives, as well as neutralizing toxins involved in protein metabolism. In addition molybdenum is involved with expelling excess copper from the body and preventing dental cavities caused by minerals stored in tooth enamel.

Most importantly, molybdenum also helps rid the body of toxins that accumulate when Candida yeast cells die. The die-off process (or Herxheimer reaction) can deplete molybdenum stores very quickly, so it’s important to replace them during your detoxification.

Look for a supplement that contains molybdenum glycinate, as this is the most bio-available and best-tolerated form. A good example is Liver Support by Balance ONE.

8.  Pantethine

A derivative of vitamin B5, pantethine is vital for healthy detoxification. Pantethine also benefits Candida sufferers by supporting healthy metabolism, particularly when it comes to breaking down acetaldehyde. Acetaldehyde is a nasty chemical that affects your metabolic, endocrine, neurological and immune systems. It’s produced by the Candida yeast during your Candida infestation, and it is also released by yeast cells during die-off.

Pantethine helps to flush this poison from the body by working with other bodily functions that make co-enzyme A, a nutrient required for metabolic function. Acetyl Coenzyme A is the active form of pantothenic acid, and it is formed when coenzyme A combines with the acetate in your cells.

Regular intake of pantethine can lower overall acetaldehyde levels in the body. A study in Japan showed that the pantethine prevented a rise in blood acetaldehyde in people who had ingested alcohol. 

Natural Detoxification Habits

 

9.  Go Chemical-Free

Reduce the toxic load on your body by switching to organic, natural personal care and household products. Natural alternatives to chemical-laden products are now widely available and better for the environment, too!

Another great tip is to make sure that you air out your house regularly. Try to open a few doors and windows on a regular basis. That fresh air will help to eliminate the VOCs that are off-gassed by carpets, furniture and paint.

10.  Reduce stress

You can’t avoid all of them, but you can learn to manage them more effectively. Daily exercise such as jogging or yoga is a good start, as is mind-body exercises such as deep breathing. Stress can directly affect your digestive system.

11.  Exercise

Exercise activates your lymphatic system and increases the level of oxygen in your bloodstream. This helps to optimize immune function, reduce the Candida colonies in your gut and boost digestive transit time.

12.  Sauna

Sauna treatments increase body temperature, which restricts the survival of viruses and other pathogens. Saunas can also help to increase blood circulation, which oxygenates your cells and assists the removal of toxins from your bloodstream. Not only that, a sauna will open your pores and keep your skin’s elimination pathway running smoothly. Sweating helps to remove toxins and can help to relieve some of the symptoms associated with Candida.

13.  Skin Brushing

This helps to clear away toxic metabolites by stimulating the lymphatic system. Firm but gentle brush strokes across the skin will boost blood circulation, allowing for faster elimination of toxins. Use a brush with natural bristles and start from your feet. Use slow, gentle, circular movements and move up your body, brushing towards your heart.

Detox Yourself of Candida – Everyday

 

Detoxification is one of the most important elements of a successful anti-Candida program. With all the toxins we face in everyday life, our body’s natural detoxification pathways can sometimes fall short. That’s why it’s hugely important to give our liver, skin and blood a helping hand!

Reducing the toxic load on your body is a start, but there are real benefits in supplementing body with quality nutrients through diet and supplements. And anyway, who doesn’t love a good sauna?

For more tips on reducing your toxic load, beating Candida, and recovering your health, check out our Ultimate Candida Diet program.

Toxic Clothing - Slowing Killing

The following was published by Lee Euler (editor) of Cancer Defeated Newsletter, Newsletter #111

I'm mindful of the problem because (cancer concerns aside) I'm sensitive to a wide range of chemicals -- including those found in some types of cloth. A few years ago I bought a beautiful set of sheets from a fancy store. The label said they were100 percent cotton, but after sleeping in them a few nights I was in bone and muscle pain from head to toe. Repeated washings didn't get out whatever the offending substance was.

I got a terrible reaction from the dyes or maybe the chemicals used to make those all-cotton sheets "no-iron". You can only imagine what true synthetic cloth can do to us. It's largely a product of the oil industry.

The Toxins Lurking in Your Clothing...

We have the illusion that clothes made from synthetic fibers are safe, but the materials are in fact full of invisible chemicals the clothing industry prefers we don't think about.

A hundred years ago, clothing was made of natural fibers like cotton, flax, wool, and silk. In the early 1900s synthetics were developed.

Although rayon was introduced in 1924, the first truly synthetic fiber was nylon, made by DuPont from the petro-molecule toluene. Nylon because a popular material for women's panty hose.

Other synthetics followed: 

• Acrylic (1950), aka, "wash-and-wear" fabrics — a "revolutionary time-saving leap" for homemakers 
• Polyester (1953), "wrinkle free" fabrics developed from xylene and ethylene
• Spandex and olefin (1959), which became the mainstay of sportswear, swim suits, and thermal underwear. Olefin is produced by "cracking" petroleum molecules into propylene and ethylene gases. 

Today's clothing (a $7 trillion/year industry) is manufactured using an astounding 8,000 synthetic chemicals.

Nowadays, clothes also contain toxins like formaldehyde, brominated flame retardants, and perfluorinated chemicals (Teflon) to provide "non-iron" and "non-wrinkle" qualities. Insecticides are even applied in the name of good health!

For half a century, skin and chemicals have been interacting… creating problems like infertility, respiratory diseases, contact dermatitis, and cancer. The more synthetic clothing you wear, the greater your risk of absorbing toxic chemicals that harm your health.

The Problems with Synthetics…

When toxins are absorbed through your skin — your largest organ — they bypass your liver, the organ responsible for removing toxins. You also may not realize that your skin keeps you healthy by venting toxins… up to a pound per day.

Petrochemical fibers restrict and suffocate your skin — shutting down toxic release. Meanwhile, they contribute to your total toxic burden and may become the "tipping point" for triggering the onset of disease.

Two contributing factors are (1) toxic buildup in your body and (2) multiple chemicals that interact together to create even worse problems than the individual chemicals by themselves.

Skin rashes, nausea, fatigue, burning, itching, headaches, and difficulty breathing are all associated with chemical sensitivity. If you have mysterious health symptoms that you can't seem to get control over, it's worth checking out whether your clothes could be the problem.

The Chemicals You Wear Every Day…

With a "mere" 8,000 chemicals used in clothing manufacture, it's a sure bet you're wearing many as you read this. Let's highlight some of the worst. 

These kinds of fabric finishes "scream" chemicals...

• Easy Care — Wrinkle free, shrinkage free garments release formaldehyde. 
• Water Repellent — Fluoropolymers (as in Teflon) are used to repel oil and water 
• Flame Retardants 
• Bacterial and fungicidal chemicals — Triclosan and nano-particles are used for this. 

Formaldehyde is linked to a 30% increase in lung cancer, plus skin/lung irritation and contact dermatitis. It is found in fabrics claiming to be: 

• Anti-cling, anti-static, anti-shrink 
• Waterproof 
• Perspiration-proof 
• Moth-proof and mildew resistant 
• Chorine resistant 

It's also used in dyes and printing to fix the design and prevent "running". 

Most governments restrict formaldehyde levels in clothing… but not the U.S. One of the worst offenders is China. Beware of "Made in China" labels.

Use of formaldehyde in clothing is extremely widespread. There have even been lawsuits alleging high levels of it in Victoria's Secret bras.

High temps and humidity make "poison clothes" even worse — they open your pores and increase chemical absorption.

And you absorb formaldehyde from multiple sources daily, so don't be fooled by manufacturers' reassurances.

Disperse Blue Dyes may look gorgeous — even regal — but they put you at high risk for contact dermatitis… especially dark blue, brown, and black synthetic clothing. It's important to note — laundering does not reverse that risk. Worse… Disperse Blue 1 is classified as a human carcinogen due to high malignant tumor levels in lab animals.

Incidentally, you might be interested to know that this dye also shows up in cosmetics and semi-permanent hair dyes.

Fire and burn hazards: The Marine Corps now prohibits troops in Iraq from wearing synthetic clothing while off base… after too many unfortunate burns from soldiers wearing polyester, acrylic, and nylon — which readily melt in high heat and fuse to the skin. (Dudes, what did you expect? The stuff is a first cousin to plastic. Both are products of the oil industry.)

Of course, that begs the question of whether flame retardants are safer… Flame Retardant use began in 1971, when government required children's sleepwear to be self-extinguishing. The solution was to add brominated Tris. 

Studies measuring urine samples showed that this chemical is readily absorbed. Brominated Tris is a mutagen, and causes cancer and sterility in animals. (Mutagens cause inheritable mutations by damaging DNA.) They also cause testicular atrophy and sterility.

Tris was banned in children's clothing in 1977 (but lives on in upholstered furniture foam, baby carriers, and bassinets). Today most synthetic fabrics contain a new generation of flame retardants bonded into the fabric, which must survive 50+ washings.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's National Burn Center, only 36 children a year suffer serious injuries from sleepwear catching fire. My heart goes out to these tragic victims and their families. But is the toxic contamination of millions of children worth protecting 36 children per year from burns?

This sort of regulation is a product of the "precautionary principle" — the notion that there should be no limit to the amount of money spent or the amount of inconvenience inflicted on millions of people when it comes to preventing rare dangers that affect a tiny number of people. The mania for making our society risk-proof and accident-proof actually increases danger in many cases.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission exempts certain sleepwear from flammability standards. Two companies selling kids' sleepwear without flame retardants are L.L. Bean and Lands' End.

But it's not just children's sleepwear… Demand is high for fire-retardant uniforms and civilian clothing. 

Lab studies show that flame retardants (PBDEs) can cause a slew of health issues — thyroid problems, brain damage, ADHD symptoms, and fertility problems.

The insecticide permethrin is now in civilian outdoor wear and military uniforms even though no long-term studies have assessed its safety. We wrote about this dangerous chemical in Issue #89. You can see it at www.cancerdefeated.com/newsletters.

Silver nanoparticles in name-brand clothing create anti-odor, anti-wrinkle, and anti-stain clothes. "Nano" means "really tiny"… super-microscopic. Nano-particles in clothing can create easily absorbed toxins that, due to their miniscule size, are transported into all your organs, including your brain… consequences unknown.

Other scary toxins include sulfuric acid, urea resin, sulfonamides, halogens, and sodium hydroxide.

The Health Hazards of Built-Up Electrical Charges…

Electrostatic charges accumulate in synthetic clothing. There are stories of shocking mini-explosions from mixing layers of synthetic clothing with synthetic carpeting.

And get this: synthetic undergarments contribute to infertility in men.

A 24-month study of male dogs wearing either loose-fitting polyester underpants or loose-fitting cotton ones showed that wearing polyester created significant decreases in sperm count and degeneration of the testes. The animals wearing cotton suffered no side effects. (And, please, no letters to the editor about dogs wearing underwear. I agree, it sounds silly.)

Scientists think polyester traps body heat, encourages chemical absorption, and creates electrostatic build-up… which all affect sperm count.

Is Tight Fitting Clothing a Problem?

The short answer is "yes".

We recently ran an article on the risks of wearing bras, especially tight ones (Issue #65).

Probably the most unsafe clothing item ever introduced in the name of fashion was the corset. It squeezed women's bodies and crushed their internal organs to the point of broken ribs.

Today, some scientists believe restrictive bras suppress the lymphatic system — which flushes toxins from your breasts and lymph nodes and helps prevent breast cancer.

Anna Maria Clement and Brian R. Clement, co-authors of the book Killer Clothes, recommend limiting bra usage as much as possible.

Your shoes might also fit the category of tight clothing. A 2009 survey of 2,000 people found that 40% of women buy and wear uncomfortable shoes to make a fashion statement. By contrast, just 17% of men did likewise.

Synthetics Hurt Athletic Outcomes…

Despite the wide appeal of synthetic athletic apparel, medical studies show that synthetic fibers cause muscle fatigue — which can mean the difference between winning and losing for competitive athletes.

In a study of 24 27-year-old men, natural linen long-sleeved shirts were worn for five hours -- and then polyester ones were worn for another five hours. Their arms were monitored during both, with electrodes measuring skin temperature and velocity of the men's muscle tissue.1

No changes were measured when they wore the linen. But when they donned polyester they endured a range of muscle disruptions…

The Bottom Line…

It's important to realize that while individual chemicals might not endanger your health, the synergistic effect of multiple chemicals interacting can have unpredictable negative effects.

Natural and organic clothing is becoming more popular again. But it can still be a challenge to find it, and you may have to piece together items from multiple suppliers. Here's empowerment for the process…

Priority #1 — Choose natural fibers

1. Cotton — preferably organic. It still remains the "king" of textiles. Organic accounts for less than 1% of worldwide production
2. Flax — one of nature's strongest fibers
3. Hemp — grows without any need for fungicides, herbicides, or pesticides because it's naturally insect-resistant. Its fibers are reported to be four times stronger than cotton. This is NOT the hemp known for its mind-altering properties! 
4. Silk — known as the "queen of fabrics". Watch out for the use of synthetic dyes in silk. 
5. Wool — most of today's wool is contaminated with chemicals, i.e., pesticides used to kill parasites. But organic wool is becoming more common. 
6. Other — alpaca, angora, camel, cashmere, mohair, ramie, aluyot

Incidentally, the Organic Trade Association estimates that one non-organic cotton T-shirt uses one-third pound of pesticides and fertilizers. Cotton production uses one-fourth of all the world's fertilizers.2 It's another good reason to choose organic cotton to add to the ones above.

Here are some sources to get you started in your search for healthier clothes. 

• Hempest.com 
• Patagonia (small line of organic clothing) 
• Ecowise.com 
• Fairindigo.com 
• Faeriesdance.com 
• Kasperorganics.com 
• Juteandjackfruit.com 

Start small… Choose organic for clothing closest to your skin most of the time — underwear, sleepwear, camisoles, and the like… and then build as you replace items in your closet. Move in a healthier direction with your clothing to drastically reduce your chemical load.

Kindest regards,

Lee Euler,
Publisher

Brain Essentials

I attended a lecture on the connection between food and depression, and the information was amazing. By our eating habits, we are determining also our attitudes. Somewhere during the lecture we participants received a handout listing essential chemicals for feeding and maintaining a healthy brain. Here is the list, which appears to be taken from a book entitled "Nutrition for the Brain" (page 61).

BRAIN ESSENTIALS

tryptophan: pumpkin, sesame and sunflower seeds, tofu, cauliflower, walnuts, flaxseed and grapes

tyrosine: watermelon, almonds, lentils, whole grains (wheat and oats), bananas, lima beans, avocados, seaweed (spiraling), and dry roasted soy beans

no cholesterol: whole grains, fruits, vegetables and nuts

iron: seaweed, soy beans, pumpkin and sesame seeds, cashews, raisins and sun-dried tomatoes

thiamine: macadamia nuts, pistachios, fresh green peas, edamame, navy beans and asparagus

choline and betaine: quinoa, spinach, green soybeans and beets

resvratrol: bilberries, blueberries, black grapes, peanuts and cranberries

omega-3: walnuts, pecans, red bell pepper, avocado, blueberries, romaine lettuce, spinach, flax, chia and hemp seeds

folate: black-eyed peas, pinto beans, black beans, chick peas, asparagus and spinach

B12: Red Star brand nutritional yeast, fortified breakfast cereals and plant based milks

__________________________________________________________________

The bottom half of the page had participants "make a salad" that would be rich in a particular nutrient, a very good hands-on activity for stimulating people in applying the info learned and also in utilizing it/testing it out with other participants.

Action: Make a fruit or vegetable salad using the ingredients listed above...

tryptophan _______________________________________________________
tyrosine _________________________________________________________
iron ____________________________________________________________
omega-3 ________________________________________________________
thiamine ________________________________________________________
choline and betaine ________________________________________________
resveratrol _______________________________________________________
folate ___________________________________________________________
B12 ____________________________________________________________ 

All recommended food items, e.g. nutritional yeast, tofu, etc, aren't good for people with candida; however, there are excellent choices here to boost brain energy and help overcome depression, something that people with candida often have because of the excessive toxins within the body which are continually transported through the blood and lymph and affecting mental clarity.

Biamonte Ctr - Treating Candida, part II

The Biamonte Center, which is specifically for treating candida, has developed a four-stage program for eliminating candida and rebalancing the body. For an overview of the center and its purpose, see the previous blog entry or go to the website.

Phase 1 : Eliminate the candida infection
Phase 2 : Detoxify the intestines and body
Phase 3 : Correct hormone or nutritional deficiencies
Phase 4 : Support and rebuild the immune system

Michael Biamonte, clinical nutritionist, gives an overview of each of the phases and includes some of the elimination drugs/supplements used as well as discusses the philosophy behind each phase. I do appreciate this information, especially some of the whys and wherefore being explained about the chronological process.

_____________________________________________________________________________

PHASE 1 : Eliminate the candida infection

This is the "systemic phase", the phase that refers to treatment of the entire body and its systemic infection (caused by virus, bacteria, yeast, fungus or parasite).

In this phase there are two types of natural and herbal substances to be taken. The first is taken on rotation, that is, every 4 days one of the items is stopped and another is taken for 4 days. There might be 4-6 items in the rotation group with the products being taken for 30 days before re-evaluation, resulting in possible extention of treatment for another 30 days. The principle behind rotating these treatment herbs/supplements is that candida is able to build up immunity to an herb/supplement/drug after only 21 days (some say 7 days), and so to keep the process of elimination alive and continuous, rotation is needed. The carefully selected herbals/supplements in Phase 1 are chosen for their ability to be absorbed by the blood, travel through the bloodstream and lymphatic system, and be able to kill or eliminate most of the infection throughout most of the body.

Non-rotated supplements are the second group. The non-rotated items are to be taken every day. They aid the die-off of the infection. Products used are Biocidin or Bioradiance (the double-strength of Biocidin) accompanyied with Biotonic, products of Bio-Botanical Research Inc. These products are said to be very powerful so must be taken with food.

Resulting from the rotated and non-rotated herbals and supplements is the likely die-off reaction, also known as Herxheimer reaction. The reaction is due to a larger number of bacteria or toxins being dumped into the bloodstream, colon or wherever too quickly for them to be transported out, resulting in a toxic reaction. The toxic reaction in itself is a good sign of the products working, but it can affect the already weakened immune system; therefore, some of the doses should be lessened in order for the body, specifically the liver, not to be too overworked-overstressed. Reactions could be headaches, myalgia, fever, chills, fluttering heart, hypotension, flu-like symptoms, among others. During die-off, to lessen discomfort and reaction, continual flushing with fluids is strongly recommended - at least 4 oz. every half hour.

Through the Biamonte Center, this phase lasts 30 days before retesting, which determines whether the person procedes to the next phase or will repeat phase 1 again with perhaps a change in herbals/supplements and dosages. Urine tests are given to determine progress. The urine sample measures 3 things:

(1) pH which tells the likelihood of an active infection (should be about 6.4 but if 5 or especially below 4 the person is more infection susceptible; a pH between 6-7 shows little infection susceptibility)
(2) indican, which indicates the amount of toxicity in the colon and intestines. Indican is produced by food that is putrefying in the intestines, mixing with harmful bacteria, parasites or yeast, which is then releasing indole, a harmful substance. Indole gets absorbed in the blood and then is eliminated through urine as indican.
(3) protein waste product that is given off by parasites and yeast

Also in the non-rotated group are supplements, e.g. enzymes to help aid digestion, perhaps an anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-parasitic or anti-yeast product.

What is not used in this phase are immune boosters and/or anti-oxidants. Taking such would counteract the herbals and supplements for killing off the candida by strengthening it. Anti-oxidants include beta carotene, vitamin E, vitamin C, selenium, zinc, quercetin, pycnogenol as well as nutrients which stimulate and/or activate viruses/bacterias - calcium, vitamin D, copper, CoQ10, B-complex (individual vitamin Bs may be necessary though).

This phase will NOT eliminate all the symptoms or all the infection, but the severe symptoms of active infection are expected to go away. Once symptoms have been reduced and bloodwork determines that the infection likewise is reduced, the person procedes to Phase 2 with no "vacation" between herbal/supplement cycles. In fact, for best results, a three-day overlap of supplements in Phase 1 and Phase 2 is often encouraged.

_____________________________________________________________________________

PHASE 2 : Detoxify the intestines and the body

Phase 2 is to cleanse the body of viruses and parasites. Parasites are eliminated through cleansing the bowel. Viral conditions like Epstein-Barr or cytomeglio virus or other Herpes-type viruses usually associated with chronic fatigue are cleansed through the intestines and by cleaning the liver, the lymphatic system, the spleen, and various other organs and glands that are known to house viruses. Bacteria is eliminated in similar ways. Phase 2 has three steps.

Step 1 : Use 4-5 different supplements to kill the infection
.......... i. "looseners"
.......... ii. "bulldozers"
.......... ii. "digestive aids"
.......... iv. "mop-up items"
.......... v. "vermifuges" (some people only)
Step 2 : Introducing friendly bacteria
Step 3 : Repair the intestinal tract

Step 1 : Use 4-5 different supplements to kill the infection

The "looseners" - Their job is to loosen old debris, old mucus or fecal matter sitting in the intestinal tract and which hide yeast, parasites or harmful bacteria. Once loosened and removed, more intestinal tract surface will be available for the "good" bacteria to live and thrive. Castor oil, garlic oil, bromelin, pancreatin, pepsin (an enzyme produced in the stomach) and comfrey. Taken on an empty stomach 2-3 times a day and usually in high amounts, as in 4-8 "looseners" at one time - Example, 4-7 castor oil or garlic oil first thing in the morning and last thing at night and 4-6 pancreatin 2-3 times a day.

The "bulldozers" - These push out debris from the intestinal tract which the looseners have loosened. High fiber products commonly containing psyllium (a fiber) and benzonite (a highly absorbent clay capable of holding several times its weight in toxins and toxic matter). Taken on an empty stomach twice a day, first thing in the morning and last thing at night.

The "digestive aids" - These help with rebuilding the digestive system or aid the overtaxed digestive system with its work. Enzymes, hydrochloric acid, pancreatin, bile salts - items the body needs and if healthy can produce on its own. Taken at meal and snack times.

The "mop-up items" - Also known as "candida killers" are to mop up any remaining substances secreted in hard-to-get areas. They are oil-type products that line the intestinal tract and absorb into it, reaching yeast that is unreachable by other products. These are products that absorb into the blood and travel throughout the body, killing yeast in obscure places. Taken with each meal but these supplements/oils needs to be rotated.

The "vermifuges" - These are "vermin" (worm or parasite) killers. Nasty as it may sound, almost everyone with candida has worms or parasites which must be expelled before real healing can be expected. K-min, black walnut and butternut bark. Taken on an empty stomach.

Phase 2 also has Herxheimer reaction, and some people have gastro-intestinal upset gas, bloating, poor digestion. Rectal itching is also very common, especially if a person has worms or parasites.

Step 2 : Introducing friendly bacteria

Friendly bacteria are started to be introduced into the system via FOS, a fruit sugar found in garlic, artichokes, bananas, and other fruits and vegetables which tend to selectively feed only friendly bacteria. Bifidofactor or Superdophilis are two powerful types of the DDS strain and which do a fast and thorough job. Dosages are half a teaspoon of Bifidofactor in the a.m. and half a teaspoon of Superdophilis in the p.m. while taking FOS three times a day at half a teaspoon doses. All should be taken on an empty stomach because the acid in the stomach can kill these friendly bacteria. The FOS is the most important because it will get into the intestinal tract and feed the friendly bacteria and get it to multiply.

In this phase it is very common to have intestinal bloating, gas and abdominal discomfort due to the growth of the friendly bacteria which produces gas and bloating as it wipes out the harmful bacteria. If the gas and bloating is bad, simply reduce the doses until no reaction in produced and then gradually try to increase the amount.

Step 3 : Repair the intestinal tract

Certain vitamins and nutrients are used for repairing the intestinal damage, like "leaky gut" or permeability, caused by the candida, thereby also eliminating the key symptoms of leaky gut which are arthritic symptoms and food reactions. Two categories of supplements are used - one for repairing and the other for reducing inflammation. Depending on the supplements, they can be taken with food or on an empty stomach.

At the end of Phase 2 a person should have vastly increased digestive ability, far fewer food reactions, better bowels movements and less gas and bloating. The person should now be ready to correct vitamin and mineral and other nutrient absorption.

_____________________________________________________________________________

PHASE 3 : Correct hormone or nutritional deficiencies

This part of the program addresses issues of energy and also nutritional deficiencies. Blood testing and hair analysis (done through the Bio-Cybernetics Center) is used for assessing how to individually treat each patient. Blood shows transportation of say nutrients while hair shows storage of for example toxins like mercury, arsenic, lead, copper, bismuth, etc. Many people who have arthritis or any type of joint or muscular pain commonly have toxic metal poisoning, as do women with severe PMS or difficulties conceiving. Commonly also are people with candida or Epstein-Barr virus having excess copper (likely from copper pipes) or mercury (likely from silver fillings).

The adrenal glands and the thyroid are the energy producers in the body. Many people may also have energy issues due to deficiencies in their reproductive organs - the prostate and testicles for men, the ovaries, uterus and mammary glands for women. In fact, candida in women is very likely linked to issues of either too low or too much estrogen. Women need special attention in regard to rebalancing their reproductive organs as estrogen is always fluctuating throughout the month. In general although men may have hormonal imbalances, they need less attention to hormonal therapy.

To boost the energy level and to get the glands working properly, specific nutrients the person is deficient in are given, for example, vitamin A and C may show up as needed mutritional supplementation. Or B-complex. Mineral deficiencies may also show up, but supplementation may not be done with minerals as a further imbalance could be created with this micronutrient category. Protein concentrates are given and these are actual protein organ extracts of animals specifically raised for the purpose of gland and organ processing. Specific herbs for stimulating specific organs or glands could be prescribed.

On this phase diet is changed to address the issue of building the body's nutritional defences. The diet is changed to fit the person's fast or slow metabolism. If the person has a slow metabolism, the person should eat a meal high in protein and low in fat to stimulate the thyroid, adrenal glands and energy-producing glands for raising the metabolism and for burning more calories. Only protein is capable of increasing metabolism and the calorie burning rate. If the person has a fast metabolism (only about 20% of the American population), then he/she burns up carbs and starches too quickly and runs out of energy so needs to consume more fats and oil which are slow-burning fuels for maintaining a more constant level of energy within the body.

_____________________________________________________________________________

PHASE 4 : Support and rebuild the immune system

This phase deals primarily with the immune system and to make sure the thymus gland, spleen and lymphatic system are functioning properly, and very importantly, to make sure the liver is producing antibodies and has an immune system response. Of course the adrenals need to be furthered strengthened, so reintroducing some of the Phase 2 supplements might be considered. Phase 4 has two parts - the first is to take nutrients for 1-2 months to build and repair the immune system, and the second is to use specific herbs which stimulate the immune system.

Part 1: Nutrients to build and repair the immune system

Which supplements are given are determined through blood and/or hair testing, or even occasionally through a special test for T-cells and B-cells (similar to the test given to HIV patients) for determmining exact immune system requirements. However, the principal test that will determine progress is by the white blood count and the many individual white blood cells which are measured on a complete white blood count: cenefils and basofils (white blood cells that indicate allergies), monocytes (tell how well the liver is functioning), and then the primary indicators, the nutrofils and lithocytes (which are good indicators of infection in the body). In another section on the blood test, the total globulin (a protein utilized by the immune system) also tells how well the immune system is doing, as also does the albumin (another protein). A test called totalbillyrubin can give some idea of the functioning of the thymus and the liver and also an idea of the immune system's response.

In the hair analysis, some of the principal minerals which indicate the immune response in the body are zinc, copper and iron. In an immune-deficient person an excessively low zinc and an abnormally high copper is common. A very low or high iron also tells how the immune system is functioning. The mineral selenium indicates how well the body is responding to chemical toxins or odors and fumes and things in the environment which cause sensitivities. Toxic metals such as cadmium, mercury, lead, aluminum, arsenic and copper also give an idea of how well the immune system is doing - the lower the metals, the better the immune response.

Part 2 : Specific herbs for boosting the immune system

Vitamin C flush - Sometimes a vitamin C flush is necessary for boosting the immune system. The flush gives the system very high doses of vitamin C to the point where it totally saturates the system. For this flush, vitamin C is given every hour (strict records are kept documenting time and amount as well as outcome, e.g. loose stool, diarrhea). For example, if someone takes 1000mg of vitamin C every hour for 6 hours and then has loose stool or diarrhea, then 6000mg was consumed before reaching evacuation. So, subtract 1000mg from the total to reach 5000mg, and then in the next 3 hours the high tolerance doses of 5000mg is given to saturate the body and boost the immune system. Another example, is a person takes 12,000mg before having loose stool, and so subtracting 1000mg, the high vitamin C dose of 11,000mg is given within the next 3 hours. The high dosages would continue for up to 3 days at 3 hour intervals, but every time 1000mg less would be given, and the outcome of the doses would no longer result in loose stool or diarrhea. This is the vitamin C flush. [The reason for achieving loose stool is for the body to indicate that it is totally saturated by vitamin C. The flush has been shown clinically to raise the immune response as high as possible by the megadoses.] High power vitamin C used in this program could be Ultra Potency by Metagenics or another high powered one by Alacer company or a supplement called Emergency-C or even another kind.

The mineral germanium - [Purpose : unclear] Another mega-dosing program is with the use of the mineral germanium, to be effective, taking germanium in a 4-day to 1-week course. For example, a person might start with 25mg one day, the next take 50mg, then 100mg, then 150mg, then 200mg, and then 250mg. Perhaps then the person would take a 2-day break and then start over at the 25mg dose and work up in the same way. The cycle could even be repeated again.

Vitamin A - For mega-dosing with vitamin A, water-soluable A (a kind of vitamin A that does not accumulate in the liver for long periods of time) is used and in dosages of up to 250,000 units. The 250,000 dosage can be maintained for 2-3 weeks and then dropped down to 50,000 units for 1-2 weeks, and then brought up to 250,000 units for another few weeks before being dropped back to 50,000 units for a week or so. So, one could conceivably be taking 250,000 units a day for 2-3 weeks, and 50,000 units for 1-2 weeks. This again serves to stimulate certain parts of the immune system at a very high level.

Glandular concentrates - Certain other glandular concentrates from the thymus, lymphs, spleen, adrenals and liver are also used in very high doses in order to generate and increase immune response. Sometimes they may be taken every hour.

The vitamin C flush, germanium, vitamin A and the hourly technique of taking glandular concentrates may also be used if the person is feeling on the verge of a relapse or coming down with a cold or flu. Echinacea, a commonly used herb for the immune system, can also be used to ward off an oncoming cold or flu. The dose is 2-3 teaspoons, 3 times a day, and then after the inital high dosages, dropped down to 1/2 teaspoon 3 times a day.

Phase 4, the rebuilding of the immune system which took years to destroy, takes the longest; it may very likely take as long as a year. In this very individualized phase, fiber supplements to keep the bowels moving, some flora supplement for aiding correct bacteria growth, and digestive supplements for assisting with digestion are employed. Energy boosters from Phase 3 might even be continued in addition to the mega-dosing techniques above.

Sometimes in this phase a rash or pimples might appear. These are primarily the result of the lymphatic sstem and the immune system cleansing themselves. If this happens, a dry massage to massage off dead skin can be done to activate better circulation of the vascular and lymphatic systems which will help push poisons out of the skin. Saunas and steam baths are even more efficient for cleansing impurities out.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Other principles to keep in mind:

Phase 1 and Phase 2 are done under a very carefully regulated diet. The Biamonte Center has three diet choices: a high-protein diet that includes meat with few carbs, a vegetarian diet which includes a few more carbs, and the caveman diet which is for toughest candida (mainly meat protein with low carb vegetables).

Phase 1 and Phase 2 primarily eliminate the total infection; Phase 3 and Phase 4 build back the immune system and repair the damage caused by the infections.

Phase 1 handles active infection; Phase 2 handles the digestive system and nutrient absorption; Phase 3 addresses energy; Phase 4 aims for rebalancing the immune system.

Rule of thumb - Liquids are taken on an empty stomach; all tablets or capsules are taken with meals.

At no time in the program does a person want constipation. Drinking plenty of water and eating lots of fiber is to help flush the body regularly and speedily from the toxins that are poured into the colon, but if constipation occurs, the toxins build up and are reabsorbed back into the bloodstream and possibly making the person very ill indeed.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

All the of the above material came from the Biamonte Center's webpages, specifically under the category of "Tour Our Program". I have tried to condense the pages describing the program as succinctly as possible without changing any of the therapies or nuances of the 4 phase candida cleansing and repair program. I do NOT agree with everything in the program, but this summary is just what it is, a summary of a program and devoid of my opinion.

Strict Candida Diet

The Strict Candida Diet is for people experiencing a wild array of symptoms related to foods. To make this diet, I’ve cross-referenced many candida diets and read about why certain foods are on the list or why they are stricken from it. This is not a “perfect” diet for everyone experiencing radical food sensitivities as people even develop individual sensitivities/allergies. However, this is a core diet and can be added to or subtracted from based on the individual’s needs.

The diet principles exercised here are sugar-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, meat-free, yeast-free, processed food-free, and low-carb. The intent is to starve (actually weaken) the offending bacteria so that anti-bacterials, anti-fungals and anti-inflammatories can further damage and kill them off.

DIETARY RATIO – 65% - 20% - 10% - 5%

Keep this tentative ratio in mind when planning meals: 65+% of high fiber foods such as steamed vegies (broccoli, celery, red radishes in moderation, asparagus, cabbage, spinach and kale) with raw garlic, onion and ginger, three natural anti-fungals; 20% of high protein foods like nuts, seeds (and some people eat eggs); 10% complex carbs like brown rice, millet, select beans (carbs actually help promote a healthy body and deter candida, but once there is overgrowth the bacteria must be weakened and so carbs are withdrawn); 5% fresh fruits like lemons, limes, avocadoes and perhaps green apples or blackberries if the person can tolerate them (some people like myself must be very strict with this category). ?? % of oils is unknown but depends on the individual – some oils are very instrumental in fighting against the candida overgrowth, and so some people require more oil than others; for those upping their oils, reduce the carbs as they compete with each other. A word of caution here, a low-carb diet long-term, say for six months or more, has been known to cause electrolyte problems.

ALLOWABLE FOODS

VEGETABLES
Vegetables starve the candida of the sugar and mold that feed it. Vegies filled with chlorophyll absorb fungal poisons and escort them out of the body. Avoid starchy vegies like carrots sweet potatoes, potatoes, yams, corn, all winter squash, beets, peas, parsnips and all beans except green beans; the starch quickly turns to sugar which feeds the candida. Vegies are typically very alkaline and should be eaten raw or slightly steamed. Cooking makes all food - vegies included - acidic, the pH which candida thrives in. Seaweeds are good, e.g. spirulina, chlorella, dulse, but many seaweeds are processed with processed salts and corn oil, which could cause reaction and/or feed the candida. Tomatoes are acidic (yellow tomatoes less so) and a nightshade, which affects inflammation and particularly those with rheumatoid problems - best to avoid.

Vegetables : amaranth leaves, asparagus, beet greens, bok choy, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, celery, collard greens, cucumber (peeled), dandelion greens, eggplant (controversial as it’s a nightshade), endive, garlic stems, green beans, kale, lettuce (all types), leeks, mustard greens, okra, fresh olives, onions, red radish (in moderation), seaweed, spaghetti squash, spinach, spring onions, swiss chard, tomatoes (controversial), turnip greens, zucchini

LEGUMES
Legumes can be very moldy. Some candida diets restrict all legume consumption, some allow low-carb legumes such as chickpeas/garbanzo beans, lentils, black beans, black-eyed peas and adzuki beans. Because of the possible mold factor, soak beans (except lentils) for 8 hours, drain off dirty water and rinse till rinse-water is colorless. Cook as desired. Slow-cooking in a crock pot will retain the most nutrients that higher heats will kill.

NUTS & SEEDS
Nuts are rich in nutrients, essential fats but can be very moldy. Also they are tough on the digestive system of many candida sufferers; some people react while others tolerate them well. For eliminating mold on nuts, soak and rinse nuts before eating. For the busy person, they can be soaked in bulk and dried in a dehydrator to be eaten when desired. Drying temperatures over 118F (in the oven for example) kill nutrients, essential for the healing candida sufferer’s body. Flax seeds (chia and hemp to a lesser degree) go rancid quickly so buy whole seeds and blend the seeds to a powder just before using. Heat also destroys the nutrients in these fragile seeds so eat raw.

Nuts : almonds, walnuts, Brazil nuts (no more than 6 at a time due to heavy selenium)
Seeds : sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, hemp seeds, chia seeds

GLUTEN-FREE GRAINS
Grains contain a high amount of fiber, so figuratively they are the pipe-cleaners of the intestines grabbing pollutants, chemicals, pesticides and heavy metals and sweeping some of them out. Grains are complex carbs but they do break down into sugars and so must be eaten in small proportion when “starving” the candida so anti-fungals work more effectively.

Gluten-free grains: adlay/Job’s tears, amaranth, buckwheat, millet, quinoa, sorghum (possibly), wild and brown rice

BEVERAGES
The GI track needs to be continually washed throughout the day to remove toxins, so drink lots of water. The herbal teas listed have anti-fungal properties. Chickory root is also a great prebiotic (it contains 20% inulin) so can help repopulate the gut with healthy bacteria.

Beverages: almond milk, chamomile tea, chickory root, cinnamon tea, clove tea, fennel tea, ginger tea, lemongrass tea, licorice tea, peppermint tea, taheebo/pau d’arco tea, lots of water

SWEETENERS
Candida loves sweeteners. Supposedly stevia (controversial) can be eaten in tiny amounts every day. Coconut oil is naturally sweet, as are green apples, cinnamon, almonds and almond flour. Blend ingredients considering natural flavors and skip on all sugars and chemical-compound substitute sugars, including xylitol (known to mess up pets’ pancreases) and agave (90+% fructose while corn syrup is only about 50%; also processed at temps around 400F! thus a trans fat?).

FRUITS
Fruits range from very high fructose to fruits with much less fructose. Fruits tend to be slightly acidic, which makes them even more appealing to candida. So, choosing low fructose, low-acidic fruit is important. Limes and lemons are both low acidic, as are avocadoes. Cranberries are very low fructose but high acidic; tomatoes are acidic. The following fruits are “good” fruits for the strict candida diet but must be eaten only upon occasion and as each body allows. Limes, lemons and avocadoes are the first fruits to add to the diet.

Fruits: avocadoes, blackberries, cranberries, green apples, green papaya, lemons, limes, red or black currants

CONDIMENTS, VINEGARS & SEASONINGS
Condiments are typically fermented but people with candida have huge intolerances to yeast and/or fermentation, so they must think simple, eat simple … but feel well. Coconut aminos is a great alternative for soy sauce. Salt, by the way, is processed and often has dextrose and chemical ingredients in it; eat unprocessed sea salt which is loaded with accessible nutrients and minerals. Dried herbs are known to be moldy, not to mention irradiated. Dehydrated garlic and onion powders might have sugar additives.

Condiments: fresh garlic, fresh ginger, fresh onion, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, coconut oil, flax oil, hemp oil; mustard powder (rarely; very arguable); apple cider vinegar (very very arguable!)
Seasonings: (unprocessed) sea salt, black pepper (very arguable)

HERBS & SPICES
Certain herbs and spices contain antioxidants and anti-fungals. Some increase circulation and reduce inflammation. Some improve digestion and alleviate constipation. Most herbs and spices are beneficial in the fight against candida. Avoid the nightshades, that is, any in the red pepper family.

Herbs and spices: basil, black pepper (very arguable), cardamom, cayenne (very arguable), cilantro, cinnamon, cloves, coriander (good cinnamon substitute), cumin, dill, fennel, garlic, ginger, marjoram, oregano, parsley, rosemary, thyme, tarragon, turmeric

OILS & FATS
Eat carefully selected oils only, and always choose cold-pressed and extra virgin if given the option. Heating or boiling destroys oils, especially fragile oils like hemp and flax oils.

Oils: coconut oil, olive oil, flax oil, hemp oil
Fats: avocado, cleaned nuts (almonds, walnuts and Brazil nuts)

FOODS TO AVOID

SUGARS
Sugars exacerbate candida. Soft drinks are loaded, and even if “sugar-free” there are chemicals and the drinks are very acidic. Artificial sweeteners can impair the immune system.

Avoid: honey, syrup includes brown rice syrup, lactose, malt, sucrose, fructose, chocolate, molasses, artificial sweeteners (e.g. asulfame, nutra-sweet, saccharine, maltodextrine), agave nectar, coconut sugar, yacon syrup

ALCOHOL
Alcohol is high in sugar, plus it is fermented, both of which cause candida to thrive. Alcohol puts stress on the organs and immune system. Mixing alcohol and candida is like opening all the windows in a house fire!

Avoid: beer, cider, liquors, spirits, wine

GRAINS & GLUTINOUS FOODS
Most candida sufferers have high sensitivities to glutens, so avoiding them allows the immune system to repair itself and spend more energy attacking the bacteria rather than the introduced toxin. Corn products like popcorn are highly contaminated with toxic fungi. White rice causes rapid spikes in blood sugar levels.

Avoid: glutens (wheat, rye, barley, oats and wheat variations like spelt, couscous, cream of wheat, durum, semolina, farina, triticale, etc); corn (popcorn, blue corn, hominy, grits)

LEGUMES
Most legumes are high in carbs, moldy, as well as hard to digest and so should be avoided. Lentils, garbanzos and black beans are probably the easiest to digest and have the lowest glycemic count. Soy products are toxic to people with candida, probably because the majority of soy is GMO, which has been linked to immune system damage and other health problems. Soy is also disruptive to the thyroid, a common problem with candida sufferers. Cocoa powder, even unsweetened, contains caffeine and weakens the adrenal glands. Bean sprouts contain high levels of bacteria and sometimes e.coli – those grown at home can be safe.

Avoid: all beans except later on the lentils, garbanzos and black beans; all soy (tofu, tofu cheese, textured vegetable protein, soy milk, tempeh, etc); carob powder; cocoa powder; bean sprouts

NUTS
Nuts contain high amounts of molds/fungal toxins, which can inflame candida. Some nuts are extremely moldy like the peanuts and pistachios while almonds and walnuts are easiest for the candida sufferer to clean and eat. Coconut meat is inflammatory while coconut oil fights against the candida bacteria (the body uses these materials very differently).

Avoid: all nuts, especially peanuts and pistachios; coconut meat, milk and cream; pecans cause inflammation; cashews can be very moldy

MUSHROOMS
Mushrooms often have mold on their exterior. Eating fungi can further the spread of candida, as they are a mold; however, some molds have been used to fight the candida mold-bacteria, ex. reishi and maitake.

FRUITS
Fruits have high sugar content, which candida thrives on. Melons and especially cantaloupe tend to be very moldy. Oranges and grapefruits cause inflammation and are acidic (even orange peel as a flavoring must be avoided) while lemons and limes are alkaline and low-inflammatory. Dried fruits and fruit juices are sugar intensified and must be avoided as they heavily tax the adrenals; processed canned fruit with natural fruit sugars and the added sugars does too!

ROOT/STARCHY & OTHER VEGETABLES
Root vegies are dense in nutrients but have high starch that easily convert to sugar. Winter squash are incredily starch and thus speedily convert to sugar. Hot peppers (capsicum family) and other peppers, including sweet peppers, are in the nightshade family (along with potatoes, eggplants and tomatoes) and therefore cause inflammation in many people with autoimmune diseases, particularly those with rhuematoid problems.

Avoid: beets, brussel sprouts (many people react), carrots, daikon radishes, eggplant, parsnips, all peppers (hot and not), peas, potatoes, all squash (except zucchini and spaghetti squash), sweet potatoes, tomatoes, yams and yucca

MEATS & FISH & SEAFOOD & EGGS

Avoid all meats: Meats like beef and pork are grain-fed, which increases the acidy of the meat, filled with hormones and antibiotics, and bacterial carriers. Pork cells contain retroviruses that survive cooking and may further harm a weakened digestive system. Processed meats like lunch meat and spam are loaded with dextrose, nitrates, nitrites, sulphates and sugars.

Avoid all fish and seafood: Most fish, excepting perhaps sockeye salmon and sardines, contain alarming levels of heavy metals and toxins, which suppress the immune system. Farm-raised salmon is grey in color before factory coloring making it more appealing to consumers, not to mention farm-raised salmon is extremely inflammatory while wild salmon is considered extremely anti-inflammatory, excepting for the fact that it’s loaded with PCBs, mercury and carcinogenic agents, as is farm-raised salmon according to studies. Seafoods are the oceans floor sweepers and are toxic by nature.

Avoid eggs: eggs are inflammatory (one naturopath found that 90% of all people with food sensitivities had an egg sensitivity too)

DAIRY PRODUCTS
Dairy is inflammatory, loaded with bacteria, hormones and antibiotics as well as pus. Dairy also contains lactose, a sugar compounded with milk agents, which feed bacteria and create phlegm (bacteria crap). Cheese is created by bacteria by-products aka crap.

Avoid: dairy (all cheese, milk, cream, buttermilk, even kefir and yogurt although many argue that these two are beneficial as probiotics, but these are fermented)

ADDITIVES & PRESERVATIVES
Chemicals disrupt friendly bacteria and allow candida yeast to flourish. MSG and citric acid are in most processed foods and are derived from yeasts as they underwent a fermentation process. The natural citric acid in lemons and limes is not a chemical compound and is beneficial.

Avoid: MSG, citric acid, maltodextrin, chemicals and anything on the list that can’t be pronounced.

BEVERAGES
Caffeine causes blood sugar spikes feeding candida and stressing the adrenals and weakening the immune system, both already weaknesses in the candida sufferer. Coffee contains mold, one of the most important food categories to avoid; it also contains taurine, another evil. Decaf coffees and teas contain residual caffeine. Coconut water/milk contains a high amount of sugar and so is inflammatory.

Avoid: coffee, black and green tea, diet and regular sodas, energy drinks, sport drinks, malted drinks (e.g. Ovaltine, Horlicks, Caro), coconut water, fruit juices (fresh or packaged), rice milk, coconut water/milk

CONDIMENTS & VINEGARS
Condiments are usually fermented (vinegars, olives, pickles) or have sugar and/or citric acid (ketchup, tomato paste). They may even contain soy (soy sauce, fermented Asian bean sauces, Bragg’s, balsamic vinegar). Vinegars are made in a yeast culture, which depletes the stomach of acids and can cause inflammation in the gut

Avoid: Bragg’s, horseradish, ketchup, mayonnaise, mustard, relish, salad dressings, soy sauce; brewer’s yeast; nutritional yeast (some can tolerate nutritional yeast flakes though)

FATS & OILS

Avoid: Peanut, cottonseed, cotton and canola oils are mold contaminated. Sunflower and safflower oils are highly processed. Most beans in soy oil are GMO. Margarine is dairy plus saturated fat. Shortening is highly processed and has trans fat. Sesame seed oil is inflammatory for people with candida (some can tolerate it though).

SUMMARY

Candida flourishes in an acidic environment, and this acidity inhibits the bodies’ ability to absorb vitamins and minerals as well as limits enzyme production of digestive proteins, thus causing gas and a sense of being bloated and an increase in food sensitivities. Therefore, selecting foods from the ALLOWABLE FOODS list is important. A rule of thumb when “starving” the candida is to diet for one month for every year the person has had candida. That is, if someone’s had it for 18 years, then he/she must be on a strict candida diet for 18 months. Candida results in deficiencies; the strictness of the diet does not aim to clean up those deficiencies and may create more; however, once candida has been eliminated the body can be restored. There will never be any kind of restoration as long as candida survives and thrives.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Reverse osmosis water and distilled water are acidic waters and contain no minerals and actually leach minerals from the body. Adding minerals to water does not help as processed minerals cannot possibly duplicate what Mother Nature provides.

Canned foods are high in molds and lack nutrients; frozen is better; fresh is best.

Avoid all yeast: brewer’s yeast, baker’s yeast, vitamins & minerals (unless labeled “yeast free” and “sugar free”), B-complex (usually vitamin B1 undergoes a major fermentation process … this might affect the vitamin B1 additive in breads too)
Avoid malt products: malted drinks, cereals, candy (fermented)

Avoid sprouts unless home-grown. Sprouts often contain high amounts of bacteria and even e.coli.

Leftovers grow mold. Two hours after putting leftovers in the fridge, mold starts growing. It’s best to freeze leftovers.

Drink at least 2 liters of water a day. Consider lymphatic drainage techniques also (dry skin brushing) to keep the lymph system moving, which by the way, has more fluid in it than there is blood in the body. Exercise regularly (cardiovascular) to promote good circulation and oxygen-rich blood, which candida dislikes.

SOURCES

http://www.guruwellness.com/wellness_candida-2.htm

http://www.yeastinfectionadvisor.com/candidadiet.html

http://www.healingnaturallybybee.com/articles/foods50.php

http://www.thecandidadiet.com/foodstoeat.htm
http://www.thecandidadiet.com/foodstoavoid.htm

http://www.becomehealthynow.com/ebookprint.php?id=416

http://www.detoxwithcolonics.com/the_candida_diet

http://www.holistichelp.net/candida-diet.html

http://lightworkers.org/node/45200

http://www.yeastinfectioncure101.com/a-detailed-candida-diet-stage-1a-candida-detox.html

http://www.wellnesswatchersmd.com/feature_articles/cure_candidiasis.php

http://www.vrp.com/womens-health/candida-yeast-protection-program-part-ii-freeing-the-body-from-candida-and-preventing-recurrence

Ionic Detox Foot Bath

My parents have had an Ionic Detox Foot Bath for 2-3 years now. They try to give themselves a detox foot bath at least once a week, and on the days that they do one (40 minutes) my mom says she feels lighter in the feet and happier in the mood. Dad isn't quite so analytic but his Parkinson's tremors do seem to be lighter on the day and even the following day that he takes a foot bath. The only problem with giving him a foot bath is that he has to get up quite early in the morning before he starts taking his schedules medicines for the day in order that the foot bath won't detox/remove the necessary drugs from his system. He needs those drugs, sad to say. And after taking a foot bath, he's quite exhausted and sleeps for about 2 hours, but when he wakes up, he's more alert than usual.

I've taken the foot baths too when I'm at home, and also feel better - like my mom, lighter in the foot but in general more alert. It's rather disgusting the amount of detoxing that comes from the feet. To do the detox, of course you need the ionic detoxer, 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt to activate the tub of warm water, an electrolyte drink (because of candida I can't do the frequently used drinks so fresh squeeze a lemon in a quart of water) to drink throughout the detox in order to keep electrolytes in the body and to stay properly hydrated, a 40-minutes timer, and a book to read! More specific directions are in the following picture:


The ionic detoxer is to be used a maximum of 45 minutes as it not only pulls toxins out of the body but much needed minerals and electrolytes. 45 minutes max!




This last picture showed a lot of black, brown and orange particles which, according to the printout, suggest that I am detoxifying from my liver (heavily) and from my joints. There's also a bit of white foam although I have to say it's rather minimal compared to last summer! The white foam suggests detoxing from my lymphatic system. When the water is poured down the toilet (it's toxic so not to be poured into a sink), white particles or red flecks or black flecks can be seen which reflect detoxing from other body areas - refer to chart below for more clarity.

Bone Pain and Rib #10

By the end of 2009 I had seen a series of chiropractors for intense rib and thoraccic pain. In December these doctors had started commenting on my odd rib movement, because more and more ribs were moving. So in February 2010 when I was forced to wear a rib belt (and then later, two belts) to prevent rib movement of right rib #10, I went back to the hospital (I had boycotted going since finding out about the steroid) for x-rays of the lower cartilage that I said was breaking. [In fact, tearing. Bones break and cartilage tear, and rib #10 was in fact moving a lot and as a result causing myofascial pain in the right lingual area, the pain of which I was still attributing to the steriod and subsequent inflamed lymph nodes of months before.] Of course cartilage hardly shows up on x-ray so of course nothing to make a diagnosis on could be seen - waste of time, waste of money, what were the doctors thinking? I demanded a CT scan of the rib cage, and then had to go in again for re-taking it (and get loads of extra radiation) because the technicians didn't scan the lower cartilage area, the affected area - what were the technicians thinking? The technical report of the scan was "tortuous change to rib #10" but not one of several bone specialists I then went to acknowledged that this was a problem! WHAT WERE THE DOCTORS DOING? NOTHING!

This is my March 12, 2010 copy of my chest CT. By the time I had this CT scan, my rib cartilage was hurting badly in a number of areas. The areas I had complained about for the longest was right rib #4 where it meets the sternum but by this time my chiropracter acknowledged that three of the right ribs and two of the left off the sternum were slightly dislocated (soon afterwards, another left rib off the sternum also slightly popped up). Also, rib cartilage felt crunchy under the right breast so much that I stopped twisting in any way, and when the right rib #10 got so bad that I had to even stop wearing the two rib belts (damn, it was bad) I didn't dare move even a millimeter to the left or the right. Rib pain was on the left too, but that pain was manageable. Because the body has more lymph fluid than blood and both fluids need to be circulated so a person can recover more easily, I did make myself walk outside in the cold every day that I had energy. Exercise is important and walking without swinging the arms in the cold, cold weather seemed to ease some of the pain. [In hindsight, I realize this was what was boosting my vitamin D. Getting the regular doses on my face for 2 or so hours a day is probably what slowly eased the pain and was probably the best thing I could do for myself.]

I've finally decided to go ahead and post my personal information. Maybe someone, a medical student perhaps, will benefit from this. Anyway, note the pieces of something that very much look like cartilage fragments falling under the right rib cage. That was where I hurt, hurt, hurt, and when the doctor (the one who prescribed Xanax for me and told me to see a psychiatrist) didn't address this and it's in the area of my complaint, I asked him what that was. He said, "Artifacts." I asked, "Artifacts from what?" He looked at me like I was stupid and never said anything. He did read the analyst's comment to the CT scan, "Tortuous change to rib #10." That was all. Neither he nor any subsequent doctor ever addressed this as a problem!



I was starting to get more and more aggressive about finding my problem, so early in March 2010 I had already gone to a private clinic and had ordered a hair analysis, a complete nutritional analysis as well as blood work on 6 vitamins: B1, B6, B12, A, D, and E. [This was the first step in me becoming my own doctor.]