Pro=”for”
Biotics=”of or having to do with life or living organisms”
Probiotics are crucial for anyone undergoing Lyme treatment. As described on the antibiotics page, all bacteria are targeted by antibiotics, even the beneficial bacteria. Without replenishing the good bacteria, or the good intestinal flora, Candida and other pathogens can quickly overgrow, which depletes the immune system furthering the Lyme infection and symptoms.
We initially receive these beneficial bacteria at birth by swallowing vaginal fluids and establishing a colony in our digestive tract within the first few days of breast feeding. Beginning as infants, and throughout our lives through the foods we eat, we end up with bad bacteria, fungus, and other pathogens as well. This beneficial bacteria, if kept in balance, is what prevents these pathogens from overgrowing and causing disease. This delicate balance of good flora vs. bad flora, in essence, is the determining factor in the health of our immune system.
It is important to understand that any Probiotics that are ingested lose the ability to reproduce during manufacturing. As quoted in an article by the Harvard Medical School, “An estimated 100 trillion microorganisms representing more than 500 different species inhabit every normal, healthy bowel. These microorganisms (or microflora) generally don’t make us sick; most are helpful. Gut-dwelling bacteria keep pathogens (harmful microorganisms) in check, aid digestion and nutrient absorption, and contribute to immune function.”
Beneficial bacteria are eliminated by antibiotics by the billions, so it is important to take high doses of Probiotics in order to adequately restore balance. Taking doses in the millions is not going to do the trick. You need to take 50 billion to 500 billion in a dose in order to reestablish trillions of these beneficial bacteria. Along with the right conditions, they will repopulate quickly. Otherwise, the bad bacteria and fungus will simply kill whatever Probiotics you are introducing, and continue to demolish your natural colony of good flora.
In extreme cases, if all beneficial bacteria are destroyed through the use of long-term antibiotics and/or bad diet, it may be necessary to take Probiotics for the remainder of your life in order to maintain health. Once the natural colony is completely destroyed, it is not possible to restore it without a fecal matter transplant or swallowing vaginal fluid, colostrum, and breast milk as you did at birth. Neither of these options is usually feasible.
If you are taking long-term antibiotics, it is not a matter of if there is destruction of your good intestinal flora resulting in a Candida problem, but how severe. This is why it is so important to manage Candida overgrowth while undergoing Lyme treatment. Do not wait until your treatment is complete to address the problem. Also, be sure to take them away from your antibiotics. Otherwise, the antibiotics will kill them off immediately. The best time is usually before bed.
Colostrum
Colostrum is the first and most important thing you receive from your mother at birth. It is full of antibodies and growth factors are critical in developing a healthy immune system.
Research shows that supplementation with Colostrum helps to boost and restore the immune system, and make probiotics and other nutrients more bioavailable. It is helpful for healing and for preventative measures.
Most doctors recommend that newborns who are not breastfed be supplemented with this.Taking Colostrum along with Probiotics helps to ensure a healthy digestive balance and increased immune function.
Symbiotics is a trusted and effective brand.
To purchase go here.
Types of Probiotics
There are many types and brands of Probiotics. Some people believe it is good to switch them up every now and again. I’m not sure if that helps or not, as there is still much research and evidence needed to support that. However, it does make sense considering that there are over 500 species and 100 trillion microorganisms that inhabit our bodies.
I would say the best thing to do is research the different strains, the companies/manufacturers, and find one that targets your specific needs. You can have a complete profile stool analysis done to see what, if anything, is out of balance and determine what is needed. If all else fails, stick to the most prominent species of good bacteria: Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.
Besides a high dose at a minimum of 50 billion, the most important thing to look for in any probiotic is one that is heat stable and only requires refrigeration to maintain potency, not to prevent it from spoiling. Otherwise, you are most likely taking a Probiotic that will grow mold in the body, which is what antibiotics are made from, and what promotes Candida.
The top Probiotics that I would recommend are as follows:
11-Strain Probiotic Powder
11-Strain Probiotic Powder is a wonderful option for children or those with problems taking pills. This is by far one of the most potent and best one out there right now. If CP-1 and Syntol don’t work for you, this will do the trick with 200 Billion per dose (30 billion for children).
To purchase, go here.
Syntol
Custom Probiotics (CP-1)
Pro Bio PCC
Pro Bio PCC (recommended by Dr. Burrascano) is high potency and does not require refrigeration. Pharmanex claims that it is stable, can survive the intestinal acids and colonize. It contains only one kind of probiotic, so it would probably be best as an addition to one of the others.
To purchase (use U.S. Reference # 9256681-R), go here.
Pharmax HLC
Pharmax HLC is a high potency probiotic that also claims to recolonize. The only possible issue is it does not seem to be heat stable over 100 degrees. It is, however, stable for 3 months at room temperature. They recommend freezing for maximum potency and shelf-life. I have not used this personally, but it was recommended by a trusted nutritionist. This brand also carries Prebiotics, and many other beneficial supplements that I have used with success.
I-Flora
NOTE: Threelac is currently recommended by many sites. I would steer clear of this as there are many risks involved that I don’t feel are worth it. I provided links to reviews with more information on these risks, but do your own research before taking these.
As with all supplements and probiotics, talk to your doctor before starting any new regimen.
For more reviews on other common Probiotics, go here.
For life and for health…