Many people in the northern United States feel mid-March is a good time for the snow to stop falling and for the sun to shine to melt the snowbanks. It is well worth the puddle-jumping and accumulation of mud to feel a rise in temperature and give the spirit a boost. The feeling of optimism, renewal and warmth far outweighs the problems with moisture, until the allergies start and mold and mildew appear inside and out.
Changes in the weather and increased humidity can stimulate the growth of buds on trees and shrubs, and also create the perfect environment for moisture-friendly fungi to take up residence. This is why a household should keep their hot, humid, wet bathroom as dry as possible by venting excess moisture, to control areas where fungi infiltrate. It's easier to work at preventing mold than to continue to clean areas where mold is present. Fungus is hearty.
To stay healthy at this time of year, avoid overly moist areas where you may breathe in or come in contact with fungal spores. Once the fungal spores are in the body or penetrate the skin, once again, it's hard to get rid of them. If you believe you have a fungus problem, there are a number of antifungals (olive leaf extract, apple cider vinegar, garlic, undecylenic acid, grapefruit seed extract, caprylic acid, oil of oregano, curcumin), probiotics (it should contain 3 billion or more a day) and fiber (psyllium, flaxium, organic kamut grass leaf powder) to eliminate it. Also, keep sugar in the diet to a minimum. Sugar only feeds fungus.
Be aware of your surroundings and how they may affect you. Fungus symptoms of the skin are systemic or topical, and appear in the form of a rash, cracking, peeling, itching or raised bumps. Fungal lung conditions are due to inhalation of fungal spores and can cause fatigue, brain fog, coughing, and flu-like symptoms. Natural antifungal supplements will be effective within the first few weeks if your diet is extremely low carbohydrate. Remember, fungus loves sugar and won't leave if you keep feeding it.
Showing posts with label antifungals. Show all posts
Showing posts with label antifungals. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Monday, March 14, 2011
A Fungal Secretion
Approximately 8 months ago, Japanese researchers reported their findings on how fungus creates a guise in their attack on the immune system of plants, animals and humans. The guise is called chitin fragments - particles deposited around a fungus, which warns a host of a potential attack, stimulating its immune system. Once the immune system is warned, a protein is secreted by the fungus which collects the chitin fragments and makes them invisible to the plant, animal or human. The immune system backs down because it lacks recognition of the fungus and the attack begins. Pretty smart, those fungi.
"This knowledge may enable scientists to design novel methods to combat fungal diseases in agriculture (leaf mould, root and stalk rot, smut, wilt disease, apple scab, rust, tree cancer) and in health care (dandruff, athlete's foot, candida-infections, aspergillosis, etc.)."1
What the statement above fails to recognize are the numerous other diseases, potentially life-threatening, that are prevalent in many facets of society. Fungal related disease can strike anyone, at any time, especially those with weakened immune systems. These fungi have the capability of developing strategies to avoid an attack by white blood cells in humans, and create a very complex environment in the host body for any researcher to pinpoint the most effective counterattack. Another problem with a fungal disease is its ability to invade the body, multiply quickly and harbor itself before being recognized by a healthcare professional.
One well known fungal strain causing attention in the Northwestern United States is Cryptococcus gattii. Due to cold temperatures and the strain being of tropical origins, it has taken approximately twelve years to spread from Vancouver, British Columbia, down the coast to northern California. This particular strain causes severe respiratory and brain infection, however, is still pretty rare.
Other strains of fungal infections and disease are Candida glabrata (a skin fungus that rapidly mutates once in the blood stream); Chromoblastomycosis; Zygomycosis; Onychomycosis (the most common nail infection); and Endophthalmitis. There are way too many to list here.
The bright side to all this? A person can protect themselves from fungal infection and disease by eating a very low carbohydrate diet, taking probiotics and taking a series of antifungals to kill off any potential invasive organisms. The low carbohydrate diet is just as critical as supplementation because the lack of sugars in the body will starve fungus, keeping it from multiplying. Here's a little evidence to prove it.
1Wageningen University and Research Centre (2010, August 20). Smart fungus disarms plant, animal and human immunity. ScienceDaily.
"This knowledge may enable scientists to design novel methods to combat fungal diseases in agriculture (leaf mould, root and stalk rot, smut, wilt disease, apple scab, rust, tree cancer) and in health care (dandruff, athlete's foot, candida-infections, aspergillosis, etc.)."1
What the statement above fails to recognize are the numerous other diseases, potentially life-threatening, that are prevalent in many facets of society. Fungal related disease can strike anyone, at any time, especially those with weakened immune systems. These fungi have the capability of developing strategies to avoid an attack by white blood cells in humans, and create a very complex environment in the host body for any researcher to pinpoint the most effective counterattack. Another problem with a fungal disease is its ability to invade the body, multiply quickly and harbor itself before being recognized by a healthcare professional.
One well known fungal strain causing attention in the Northwestern United States is Cryptococcus gattii. Due to cold temperatures and the strain being of tropical origins, it has taken approximately twelve years to spread from Vancouver, British Columbia, down the coast to northern California. This particular strain causes severe respiratory and brain infection, however, is still pretty rare.
Other strains of fungal infections and disease are Candida glabrata (a skin fungus that rapidly mutates once in the blood stream); Chromoblastomycosis; Zygomycosis; Onychomycosis (the most common nail infection); and Endophthalmitis. There are way too many to list here.
The bright side to all this? A person can protect themselves from fungal infection and disease by eating a very low carbohydrate diet, taking probiotics and taking a series of antifungals to kill off any potential invasive organisms. The low carbohydrate diet is just as critical as supplementation because the lack of sugars in the body will starve fungus, keeping it from multiplying. Here's a little evidence to prove it.
1Wageningen University and Research Centre (2010, August 20). Smart fungus disarms plant, animal and human immunity. ScienceDaily.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Bye, Bye Weight
Here's a little story:
Approximately thirty years ago, a man named Doug Kaufmann started taking the fungus and disease correlation quite seriously, and because of him, and the resolve of many other pioneer fungal experts, research on the subject has become more prevalent, and interest is finally webbing outside of the tiny community. The frustration of chronically sick people receiving the same answers from mainstream healthcare professionals, has also created a backlash of determined knowledge collectors with independence to taking their health into their own hands.
Fungal-related disease today should be a commonplace consideration for anyone who has become discouraged in the lax response to finding a solution to a condition or disease. Those who are frustrated over weight loss and the constant dieting road blocks are no different. All that is needed is an alternate approach to weight loss than the past. If you think about it, your body has been exposed to many elements throughout its life, some more than others depending on choices that were made, foods eaten, environments lived in. There is so much that has built up internally, no wonder it rebels in the form of disease.
As Dr. David Holland explains in Doug Kaufmann's book, The Fungus Link, volume 2, Tracking the cause, "...to lose weight, you need to consider both weight training and doing something aerobic....And, you need to cut down on the amount of grains and fatty meats you eat." Dr. Hollands reason for cutting down on grains and fatty meats? Farmers feed their livestock grains, which are carbohydrates, to fatten them, and give them antibiotics when the livestock are sick. Grains and the antibiotics feed fungus in the livestock, then we eat the livestock. Some of that fungus enters us through consumption, and the same goes for having a diet high in carbohydrates.
Carbohydrates role is feeding the fungus we have already consumed or ingested. The amount of fungus differs per person, however, and its safe to presume, through research, that the more overweight, the higher the fungal content in a persons body.
An alternative solution to combat weight would be:
Approximately thirty years ago, a man named Doug Kaufmann started taking the fungus and disease correlation quite seriously, and because of him, and the resolve of many other pioneer fungal experts, research on the subject has become more prevalent, and interest is finally webbing outside of the tiny community. The frustration of chronically sick people receiving the same answers from mainstream healthcare professionals, has also created a backlash of determined knowledge collectors with independence to taking their health into their own hands.
Fungal-related disease today should be a commonplace consideration for anyone who has become discouraged in the lax response to finding a solution to a condition or disease. Those who are frustrated over weight loss and the constant dieting road blocks are no different. All that is needed is an alternate approach to weight loss than the past. If you think about it, your body has been exposed to many elements throughout its life, some more than others depending on choices that were made, foods eaten, environments lived in. There is so much that has built up internally, no wonder it rebels in the form of disease.
As Dr. David Holland explains in Doug Kaufmann's book, The Fungus Link, volume 2, Tracking the cause, "...to lose weight, you need to consider both weight training and doing something aerobic....And, you need to cut down on the amount of grains and fatty meats you eat." Dr. Hollands reason for cutting down on grains and fatty meats? Farmers feed their livestock grains, which are carbohydrates, to fatten them, and give them antibiotics when the livestock are sick. Grains and the antibiotics feed fungus in the livestock, then we eat the livestock. Some of that fungus enters us through consumption, and the same goes for having a diet high in carbohydrates.
Carbohydrates role is feeding the fungus we have already consumed or ingested. The amount of fungus differs per person, however, and its safe to presume, through research, that the more overweight, the higher the fungal content in a persons body.
An alternative solution to combat weight would be:
- Decrease carbohydrates and simple sugars, foods contaminated with mycotoxins or fungus, foods containing yeast or yeast products;
- Take antifungal supplements, such as probiotics (to build the health of the gut), olive leaf extract (at least 16% oleuropein content), caprylic acid, oil of oregano, curcumin, apple cider vinegar, garlic, grapefruit seed extract, a good multivitamin/multimineral, and dietary fiber;
- Exercise regularly, according to what a healthcare professional would recommend.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Will the Real Olive Leaf Please Stand Up?
I've received several calls over the last few days regarding "harsh chemicals and solvents" in our Olive Leaf Extract. Unfortunately, there is some confusion surrounding this issue and I feel the need to set the record straight.
First, our number one priority is to kill fungus - so we try to make each product as powerful as possible. In order to do this, we concentrate the active ingredients. I have no problem with a company that sells whole herb products - but don't market them as extracts and don't make false claims about other extracts.
The best way to concentrate the active nutrients, is by using alcohol. The reason is that alcohol will break down fibers and other parts of the plant that don't do anything, concentrating the active nutrients and leaving parts of the whole plant in the product. Then it evaporates. There is little or no alcohol in most herbal extracts. The only "harsh chemical or solvent" that is used is ethanol. Once it has done it's job, it evaporates. Every batch of every extract we use is tested for heavy metals and alcohol - the result is always virtually zero - less than you would get from eating ripe fruit.
Science has also proven that we don't always want to completely isolate active ingredients. As an example, it is commonly believed that oleuropein is the most antifungal component of Olive Leaf Extract. However, by itself, oleuropein is ineffective. It needs it's derivatives and other parts of the plant to be effective. On the other hand, if you concentrate the oleuropein and it's derivatives, you can make the product stronger.
Think of it this way. If you take the gas out of your car, it will not go anywhere. But if you use a higher octane gas, you will get better gas mileage and better performance. That's what we want - the best possible antifungal nutrients available.
Again, I have no problem with whole plant or herb products. In fact, I'm a big fan. But when it comes to killing fungus, I want to have the strongest, most concentrated product I can.
Here are a couple things to think about...
*You can eat 5 lbs of yogurt - or you can take a couple of probiotic capsules.
*You can eat 2 bushels of broccoli - or you can take one tiny capsule of chromium picolinate.
*It is nearly impossible to get all the nutrients you need from food alone - that's why we take a multivitamin. The ingredients in multivitamins are extracts! How else would they be able to get individual nutrients out of the plant?
A whole herb (not "extract") olive leaf contains about 1% oleuropein - ours contains 18%. Not to mention that we have 800mg in a capsule - the strongest you can buy.
First, our number one priority is to kill fungus - so we try to make each product as powerful as possible. In order to do this, we concentrate the active ingredients. I have no problem with a company that sells whole herb products - but don't market them as extracts and don't make false claims about other extracts.
The best way to concentrate the active nutrients, is by using alcohol. The reason is that alcohol will break down fibers and other parts of the plant that don't do anything, concentrating the active nutrients and leaving parts of the whole plant in the product. Then it evaporates. There is little or no alcohol in most herbal extracts. The only "harsh chemical or solvent" that is used is ethanol. Once it has done it's job, it evaporates. Every batch of every extract we use is tested for heavy metals and alcohol - the result is always virtually zero - less than you would get from eating ripe fruit.
Science has also proven that we don't always want to completely isolate active ingredients. As an example, it is commonly believed that oleuropein is the most antifungal component of Olive Leaf Extract. However, by itself, oleuropein is ineffective. It needs it's derivatives and other parts of the plant to be effective. On the other hand, if you concentrate the oleuropein and it's derivatives, you can make the product stronger.
Think of it this way. If you take the gas out of your car, it will not go anywhere. But if you use a higher octane gas, you will get better gas mileage and better performance. That's what we want - the best possible antifungal nutrients available.
Again, I have no problem with whole plant or herb products. In fact, I'm a big fan. But when it comes to killing fungus, I want to have the strongest, most concentrated product I can.
Here are a couple things to think about...
*You can eat 5 lbs of yogurt - or you can take a couple of probiotic capsules.
*You can eat 2 bushels of broccoli - or you can take one tiny capsule of chromium picolinate.
*It is nearly impossible to get all the nutrients you need from food alone - that's why we take a multivitamin. The ingredients in multivitamins are extracts! How else would they be able to get individual nutrients out of the plant?
A whole herb (not "extract") olive leaf contains about 1% oleuropein - ours contains 18%. Not to mention that we have 800mg in a capsule - the strongest you can buy.
Friday, September 3, 2010
We Have a Leak!
Instantly images come to a persons mind of water spraying somewhere under the kitchen or bathroom sink, but this leak is referring to a different kind of leak - one that affects your health. The leak is in your intestines and not only allows some good nutrients to seep into your system, but also undigested food particles, toxins and waste that will have a negative effect on your health. And if this sounds gross, well, the name for leaking intestines isn't any better - Leaky Gut Syndrome!
And what causes a weakened intestinal lining which leads to Leaky Gut Syndrome? The answer varies and depends on stress level, type of diet, antibiotics or other medications taken, and exposure to fungus.
The unfortunate thing about Leaky Gut Syndrome is that it often goes undiagnosed and will persist for years, causing any number of symptoms and diseases. It may cause heartburn, abdominal pain, gluten intolerance, malnutrition, allergies, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Crohn's, and psychological problems.
The first course of action would be to strengthen the intestinal lining to stop any leakage. This may require a series of antifungals to kill off the yeast and other toxins in the body. Also, a probiotic is a must, to help force out any negative bacteria, fungus or parasites that have made the intestines their home and love to punch holes in the walls. Fiber products should be used to help absorb toxins and flush them out of the body. Lastly, but one of the most critical steps is take L-glutamine powder. L-glutamine is an essential amino acid which is abundant in the body, helps build the immune system, and works extremely well for healing wounds - like an intestinal lining that has deteriorated.
If you know you eat a lot of processed foods, sugars, drink alcohol, have taken antibiotics in the past or have a stressful lifestyle, consider making a change. All aspects of your mental and physical health depend on it, and the results will be so rewarding if an overall balance is achieved. It won't be easy, but then fixing a major leak under the sink for most people isn't easy either!
And what causes a weakened intestinal lining which leads to Leaky Gut Syndrome? The answer varies and depends on stress level, type of diet, antibiotics or other medications taken, and exposure to fungus.
The unfortunate thing about Leaky Gut Syndrome is that it often goes undiagnosed and will persist for years, causing any number of symptoms and diseases. It may cause heartburn, abdominal pain, gluten intolerance, malnutrition, allergies, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Crohn's, and psychological problems.
The first course of action would be to strengthen the intestinal lining to stop any leakage. This may require a series of antifungals to kill off the yeast and other toxins in the body. Also, a probiotic is a must, to help force out any negative bacteria, fungus or parasites that have made the intestines their home and love to punch holes in the walls. Fiber products should be used to help absorb toxins and flush them out of the body. Lastly, but one of the most critical steps is take L-glutamine powder. L-glutamine is an essential amino acid which is abundant in the body, helps build the immune system, and works extremely well for healing wounds - like an intestinal lining that has deteriorated.
If you know you eat a lot of processed foods, sugars, drink alcohol, have taken antibiotics in the past or have a stressful lifestyle, consider making a change. All aspects of your mental and physical health depend on it, and the results will be so rewarding if an overall balance is achieved. It won't be easy, but then fixing a major leak under the sink for most people isn't easy either!
Monday, May 24, 2010
Between the Lines
Wielding Microbe Against Microbe, Beetle Defends Its Food Source,
(Oct. 10, 2008)
New Sequencing Technique Could Boost Pine Beetle Fight, Improve Cancer Research (Sep. 29, 2009)
Parasite Causes Zombie Ants To Die In An Ideal Spot (Aug. 13, 2009)
Visualizing Brain Invasion by a Fungus (Apr. 27, 2010)
Efficient Consumption Of Copper Allows Fungus To Infect The Brain (Feb. 9, 2007)
HIV-Related Death: Predicting Fatal Fungal Infections (July 4, 2009)
Killer Fungus Threatening Amphibians (November 24, 2009)
All of these headlines, taken from the ScienceDaily website are specifically about fungus, however, are diverse in the biological chain and have further implications than the average person realizes.
One article focuses on how a particular insect secretes a fungus to feed its larvae and an antibiotic-producing bacterium to fight the fungus of a potential enemy mite. To some people this means nothing, but looking at overall potential "...this suggests the antibiotic could have broad-spectrum activity against other fungi and parasites, a possibility the team is now investigating. And the discovery of a novel antifungal compound is especially exciting because many of these agents can serve double-duty as anticancer drugs," says, University of Wisconsin-Madison evolutionary biologist and symbiosis expert, Cameron Currie.1
Focus on the mountain pine beetle unearths a new approach to halting the epidemic in the Northwestern U.S. and British Columbia. This article researches the fungus that attacks the pine trees in these regions turning the wood of the pine a bluish color, which then attracts the beetle, rendering the wood less marketable in the building sector. Studying the function the fungus' makeup can help the timber industry and also, according to Dr. Steven Jones, Head of Bioinfomatics at the BC Cancer Agency’s Genome Sciences Centre, “This study has much wider research implications. What we learned from assembling the draft sequence of a fungus, we can now apply to sequencing human genomes...We're now using this novel approach to decode cancer tumours.”2
The fungus Cryptococcus neoformans is known for causing meningitis and encephalitis, yet isn't harmful until it leaves the blood stream and enters the brain. Through new intravital microscopy scientists may see how the fungus enters the brain. Once the fungus stopped from traveling through a capillary, it is pushed by a protein urease into the brain. A team of researchers from the University of Calgary, Canada, suggest "...that therapeutics that inhibit urease might help prevent meningitis and encephalitis caused by infection with Cryptococcus neoformans."3
There are innumerable articles that justify plainly why some people believe the fungus theory to disease. Reading researched articles can unveil so much in the scientific world, yet sometimes its what isn't said that says so much more.
1 University of Wisconsin-Madison (2008, October 10). Wielding Microbe Against Microbe, Beetle Defends Its Food Source. ScienceDaily. Retrieved May 24, 2010, from http://www.sciencedaily.com? /releases/2008/10/081002171921.htm
2 University of British Columbia (2009, September 29). New Sequencing Technique Could Boost Pine Beetle Fight, Improve Cancer Research. ScienceDaily. Retrieved May 24, 2010, from http://www.sciencedaily.com? /releases/2009/09/090915154851.htm
3 Journal of Clinical Investigation (2010, April 27). Visualizing brain invasion by a fungus. ScienceDaily. Retrieved May 24, 2010, from http://www.sciencedaily.com? /releases/2010/04/100426212910.htm
(Oct. 10, 2008)
New Sequencing Technique Could Boost Pine Beetle Fight, Improve Cancer Research (Sep. 29, 2009)
Parasite Causes Zombie Ants To Die In An Ideal Spot (Aug. 13, 2009)
Visualizing Brain Invasion by a Fungus (Apr. 27, 2010)
Efficient Consumption Of Copper Allows Fungus To Infect The Brain (Feb. 9, 2007)
HIV-Related Death: Predicting Fatal Fungal Infections (July 4, 2009)
Killer Fungus Threatening Amphibians (November 24, 2009)
All of these headlines, taken from the ScienceDaily website are specifically about fungus, however, are diverse in the biological chain and have further implications than the average person realizes.
One article focuses on how a particular insect secretes a fungus to feed its larvae and an antibiotic-producing bacterium to fight the fungus of a potential enemy mite. To some people this means nothing, but looking at overall potential "...this suggests the antibiotic could have broad-spectrum activity against other fungi and parasites, a possibility the team is now investigating. And the discovery of a novel antifungal compound is especially exciting because many of these agents can serve double-duty as anticancer drugs," says, University of Wisconsin-Madison evolutionary biologist and symbiosis expert, Cameron Currie.1
Focus on the mountain pine beetle unearths a new approach to halting the epidemic in the Northwestern U.S. and British Columbia. This article researches the fungus that attacks the pine trees in these regions turning the wood of the pine a bluish color, which then attracts the beetle, rendering the wood less marketable in the building sector. Studying the function the fungus' makeup can help the timber industry and also, according to Dr. Steven Jones, Head of Bioinfomatics at the BC Cancer Agency’s Genome Sciences Centre, “This study has much wider research implications. What we learned from assembling the draft sequence of a fungus, we can now apply to sequencing human genomes...We're now using this novel approach to decode cancer tumours.”2
The fungus Cryptococcus neoformans is known for causing meningitis and encephalitis, yet isn't harmful until it leaves the blood stream and enters the brain. Through new intravital microscopy scientists may see how the fungus enters the brain. Once the fungus stopped from traveling through a capillary, it is pushed by a protein urease into the brain. A team of researchers from the University of Calgary, Canada, suggest "...that therapeutics that inhibit urease might help prevent meningitis and encephalitis caused by infection with Cryptococcus neoformans."3
There are innumerable articles that justify plainly why some people believe the fungus theory to disease. Reading researched articles can unveil so much in the scientific world, yet sometimes its what isn't said that says so much more.
1 University of Wisconsin-Madison (2008, October 10). Wielding Microbe Against Microbe, Beetle Defends Its Food Source. ScienceDaily. Retrieved May 24, 2010, from http://www.sciencedaily.com? /releases/2008/10/081002171921.htm
2 University of British Columbia (2009, September 29). New Sequencing Technique Could Boost Pine Beetle Fight, Improve Cancer Research. ScienceDaily. Retrieved May 24, 2010, from http://www.sciencedaily.com? /releases/2009/09/090915154851.htm
3 Journal of Clinical Investigation (2010, April 27). Visualizing brain invasion by a fungus. ScienceDaily. Retrieved May 24, 2010, from http://www.sciencedaily.com? /releases/2010/04/100426212910.htm
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Whoa-oa-oa, Candida!
The most common Candida fungus out of 200 known species is Candida albicans, already present in the mouth and gastrointestinal tract in the human body. For the majority of people, especially anyone following a healthy diet, exercise and a supplemental program, Candida rests in the system without being noticed. A weakened immune system, stress, or physical injury can be the incentive for fungus to branch out. There are other factors that collaborate with a weakened immune system to activate the overgrowth of fungus - large amounts of carbohydrates in the diet, yeast products, antibiotics, and other medications.
Certain characteristics of the fungus make the human body a perfect host. The fungus thrives in a warm, moist environment and carry a sticky protein in the cell wall, making it easier to adhere anywhere inside the body. To make matters worse, Science Daily reported, "...Candida strains have evolved and ensured their survival by adapting their genetic makeup to respond to changes in their environment. Candida species are the most common cause of opportunistic fungal infection worldwide."
The fungal infection, Candidiasis, is most often caused by Candida albicans, and ranges from a trivial rash to potentially life-threatening systemic infection, affecting the male and female gender alike. These diseases can infect the skin, hair, nails, eyes, mucous membranes, gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract, major organs, musculoskeletal system, and genitourinary tract.
Candidiasis is an infection that can be eliminated by antifungals, probiotics, fiber, and a low-carbohydrate diet. The process may take a number of months or a few years depending on the severity of the infection. Dosage and frequency of antifungal use and consistency of the sugar-free diet is monumental in the time it takes to get rid of the infection.
So, if Candida has found a weakness in the body, it will advantageously mount and continue on this path until the decision to start an all-out war against it is made. Remember, it's easier to reign in Candida before it becomes too prolific.
Certain characteristics of the fungus make the human body a perfect host. The fungus thrives in a warm, moist environment and carry a sticky protein in the cell wall, making it easier to adhere anywhere inside the body. To make matters worse, Science Daily reported, "...Candida strains have evolved and ensured their survival by adapting their genetic makeup to respond to changes in their environment. Candida species are the most common cause of opportunistic fungal infection worldwide."
The fungal infection, Candidiasis, is most often caused by Candida albicans, and ranges from a trivial rash to potentially life-threatening systemic infection, affecting the male and female gender alike. These diseases can infect the skin, hair, nails, eyes, mucous membranes, gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract, major organs, musculoskeletal system, and genitourinary tract.
Candidiasis is an infection that can be eliminated by antifungals, probiotics, fiber, and a low-carbohydrate diet. The process may take a number of months or a few years depending on the severity of the infection. Dosage and frequency of antifungal use and consistency of the sugar-free diet is monumental in the time it takes to get rid of the infection.
So, if Candida has found a weakness in the body, it will advantageously mount and continue on this path until the decision to start an all-out war against it is made. Remember, it's easier to reign in Candida before it becomes too prolific.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Opportunity Calls
It is unusual for anyone to go through life without acquiring a fungal infection of some kind. The most common minor fungal infections are athlete's foot, psoriasis, eczema, thrush, jock itch, yeast infection, and nail fungus. Like any type of infection or disease, if left untreated it may intensify and eventually become a systemic fungal problem, causing other areas of the body to be symptomatic.
Fungus usually enters the body through an abrasion or cut in the skin, by antibiotic use, or breathing airborne mold spores. They go unrecognized for three days up to two weeks and will appear as a rash, scaly patch, itching in the affected area, dry cough, or by discoloration of the nail. It loves to take advantage of weakened points, caused by some type of trauma, in the body. Fungus detects weakness and becomes very opportunistic.
To get rid of any or all symptoms requires antifungals, probiotics, a change in diet, and some patience. The average fungal infection may take from two months to six months to completely eliminate, and a systemic fungal problem may take a year or longer depending how persistent you are in taking the antifungals and steadfast you are with the diet. It can get confusing and frustrating for anyone attacking fungus in the body because there may be times progress stalls, and a redirection needs to take place to shatter that hindrance. Just stay focused and determined. (If you'd like support taking antifungals, check out Terri McCann's "Think Fungus First" blog.)
There are antifungals that will work in two ways: topically and orally. Oil based antifungals are easier to apply topically because a hole can be poked in the softgel and a small amount squeezed directly onto the infected area. Powder antifungals will work, however, the contents (powder) need to be mixed with water or an EFA to make a paste and then applied topically to the area. Antifungals may be used topically and orally until the infection has ceased.
Determine a strategy of elimination with the first signs of fungal infection, otherwise, if too much time passes opportunity will constantly call more fungus to grow internally and shift the minor infection to a systemic one.
Fungus usually enters the body through an abrasion or cut in the skin, by antibiotic use, or breathing airborne mold spores. They go unrecognized for three days up to two weeks and will appear as a rash, scaly patch, itching in the affected area, dry cough, or by discoloration of the nail. It loves to take advantage of weakened points, caused by some type of trauma, in the body. Fungus detects weakness and becomes very opportunistic.
To get rid of any or all symptoms requires antifungals, probiotics, a change in diet, and some patience. The average fungal infection may take from two months to six months to completely eliminate, and a systemic fungal problem may take a year or longer depending how persistent you are in taking the antifungals and steadfast you are with the diet. It can get confusing and frustrating for anyone attacking fungus in the body because there may be times progress stalls, and a redirection needs to take place to shatter that hindrance. Just stay focused and determined. (If you'd like support taking antifungals, check out Terri McCann's "Think Fungus First" blog.)
There are antifungals that will work in two ways: topically and orally. Oil based antifungals are easier to apply topically because a hole can be poked in the softgel and a small amount squeezed directly onto the infected area. Powder antifungals will work, however, the contents (powder) need to be mixed with water or an EFA to make a paste and then applied topically to the area. Antifungals may be used topically and orally until the infection has ceased.
Determine a strategy of elimination with the first signs of fungal infection, otherwise, if too much time passes opportunity will constantly call more fungus to grow internally and shift the minor infection to a systemic one.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Hitting Home
A river runs through a community a few miles north of our main office. Many local people and tourists use the river, especially in the summer, to kayak, canoe, tube, swim, and fish. Activity on the river has been abundant since the discovery of the river over a hundred years ago.
A few decades ago, there became a pattern among a few residents and their pets. They acquired symptoms such as coughing, fatigue, mild fluid in the lungs, and fever, which resemble symptoms for a number of other diseases. Of course, doctors prescribed antibiotics with no luck, the symptoms persisted and evolved into more serious conditions involving the skin, bones, urogenital tract and central nervous system.
The mystery disease was Blastomyces, a fungal disease, which has often been misdiagnosed as tuberculosis, chronic histoplasmosis, or a bacterial disease. If not treated properly, the symptoms could become fatal. Humans and dogs acquire this from inhaling the fungal spores in areas with high organic content, such as along riverbanks.
Unfortunately, the only remedy for a fungal-related disease is an antifungal. Antibiotics amplify the symptoms because they are only effective on bacterial infections. Some of the best natural antifungals available are olive leaf extract, oregano oil, caprylic acid, grapefruit seed extract, garlic, neem, curcumin and apple cider vinegar. Probiotics, positive bacteria, also work against the fungus by multiplying in the intestinal tract, crowding out any negative microorganisms that have taken hold.
Blastomycosis has become a familiar name in this area of the United States, as have other fungal diseases. It can really hit home in a small community when some of these diseases affect so many people, and are the result of enjoying nature in your backyard.
A few decades ago, there became a pattern among a few residents and their pets. They acquired symptoms such as coughing, fatigue, mild fluid in the lungs, and fever, which resemble symptoms for a number of other diseases. Of course, doctors prescribed antibiotics with no luck, the symptoms persisted and evolved into more serious conditions involving the skin, bones, urogenital tract and central nervous system.
The mystery disease was Blastomyces, a fungal disease, which has often been misdiagnosed as tuberculosis, chronic histoplasmosis, or a bacterial disease. If not treated properly, the symptoms could become fatal. Humans and dogs acquire this from inhaling the fungal spores in areas with high organic content, such as along riverbanks.
Unfortunately, the only remedy for a fungal-related disease is an antifungal. Antibiotics amplify the symptoms because they are only effective on bacterial infections. Some of the best natural antifungals available are olive leaf extract, oregano oil, caprylic acid, grapefruit seed extract, garlic, neem, curcumin and apple cider vinegar. Probiotics, positive bacteria, also work against the fungus by multiplying in the intestinal tract, crowding out any negative microorganisms that have taken hold.
Blastomycosis has become a familiar name in this area of the United States, as have other fungal diseases. It can really hit home in a small community when some of these diseases affect so many people, and are the result of enjoying nature in your backyard.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Synergize!
No, this is not a new aerobics class.
To synergize is to combine certain actions or things to acquire a greater result. Some things just work better alone, and some things work much better in combination. Take, for instance, your health. Wouldn't it be better to eat right and exercise to acquire better health, than to do one or the other?
This theory applies to a number of situations in life. Today, we will address synergy in supplementation - combining vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. Did you know that vitamin A needs the B-vitamins, vitamin D and E, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and zinc for proper absorption and function? And that magnesium should be taken with calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins A and D? This is one reason for taking a multivitamin and multimineral, otherwise, the positive effects on the body are at a minimum.
The cleansing process needs to incorporate a combination of supplements to achieve the greatest effect, particularly in an antifungal cleanse. An antifungal cleanse requires taking a multivitamin and multimineral to continuously feed the body nutrients and keep inner functions working properly.
A probiotic is essential for keeping the intestinal tract inhabited with positive bacteria instead of being overtaken by toxic microbials that weaken the immune system and inhibit absorption of vitamins and minerals.
Any antifungal product, such as caprylic acid, olive leaf extract, undecylenic acid, grapefruit seed extract, neem, apple cider vinegar and garlic, should be taken two products at a time to eliminate harmful microbials and toxins. These should be rotated, or alternated, with two other antifungals once a month to kill off lingering microbials and toxins.
To completely eliminate dead microbials and other waste from the body, a fiber should be used. There are some fiber products that latch onto anything negative in the intestinal tract and help remove them. Each fiber has its own way of cleansing.
It may be difficult to decide what to do in certain situations in life. Hopefully today one thing was learned, when it comes to acquiring maximum health - just 'synergize'!
To synergize is to combine certain actions or things to acquire a greater result. Some things just work better alone, and some things work much better in combination. Take, for instance, your health. Wouldn't it be better to eat right and exercise to acquire better health, than to do one or the other?
This theory applies to a number of situations in life. Today, we will address synergy in supplementation - combining vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. Did you know that vitamin A needs the B-vitamins, vitamin D and E, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and zinc for proper absorption and function? And that magnesium should be taken with calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins A and D? This is one reason for taking a multivitamin and multimineral, otherwise, the positive effects on the body are at a minimum.
The cleansing process needs to incorporate a combination of supplements to achieve the greatest effect, particularly in an antifungal cleanse. An antifungal cleanse requires taking a multivitamin and multimineral to continuously feed the body nutrients and keep inner functions working properly.
A probiotic is essential for keeping the intestinal tract inhabited with positive bacteria instead of being overtaken by toxic microbials that weaken the immune system and inhibit absorption of vitamins and minerals.
Any antifungal product, such as caprylic acid, olive leaf extract, undecylenic acid, grapefruit seed extract, neem, apple cider vinegar and garlic, should be taken two products at a time to eliminate harmful microbials and toxins. These should be rotated, or alternated, with two other antifungals once a month to kill off lingering microbials and toxins.
To completely eliminate dead microbials and other waste from the body, a fiber should be used. There are some fiber products that latch onto anything negative in the intestinal tract and help remove them. Each fiber has its own way of cleansing.
It may be difficult to decide what to do in certain situations in life. Hopefully today one thing was learned, when it comes to acquiring maximum health - just 'synergize'!
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Fungus As The Norm?
Think about fungus. If you don't know much about fungus and its effects on humans, do some research on it. There are plenty of credible websites on the Internet. The more we know and talk about it, the more others will become aware of the link to illness and humans.
There is an article about Candidiasis on the website http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/213853-overview that states, "Candidiasis is caused by infection with species of the genus Candida, predominantly with Candida albicans. Candida species are ubiquitous fungi that represent the most common fungal pathogens that affect humans." And later the article says there is an increasing number of people who have been affected by Candida, however, time and lack of fungal testing and diagnostics creates a black cloak over fungal etiology. Fortunately, in the past few years, there has been a smattering of medical news articles taking the results of studies of fungi in humans and publicly sticking their necks out.
In 2003, the Mayo Clinic addressed sinus infection in a study and found the presence of fungi in...nasal mucus. The answer to this problem - antifungal drugs. Treatments that had been used, such as antibiotics and steroids, provided less improvement than the antifungals recently tested. Now, this is a major breakthrough for anyone who believes fungus is the cause of health problems.
There are a large number of supplements and lifestyle changes that will eliminate the effects of fungus. If you're not accustomed to either of these, starting making them a part of your day. You will start feeling better.
The most effective supplemental antifungals we know of are olive leaf extract, caprylic acid, undecylenic acid, grapefruit seed extract, neem, apple cider vinegar, garlic, curcumin, and oil of oregano. Also, a probiotic is absolutely necessary.
Lifestyle changes that help are a healthy diet and exercise. A healthy diet means eliminating sugars and most carbohydrates for a period of time, which can be difficult, but essential. Starting an exercise program can be hard mentally and physically, so you may want to see a doctor first to determine what kind of exercise is best for you. Any type of exercise should be scheduled on a daily basis according to your routine and body type.
Familiarize yourself with fungus. It will help you realize how much sense there is to the connection between fungus and human illness.
There is an article about Candidiasis on the website http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/213853-overview that states, "Candidiasis is caused by infection with species of the genus Candida, predominantly with Candida albicans. Candida species are ubiquitous fungi that represent the most common fungal pathogens that affect humans." And later the article says there is an increasing number of people who have been affected by Candida, however, time and lack of fungal testing and diagnostics creates a black cloak over fungal etiology. Fortunately, in the past few years, there has been a smattering of medical news articles taking the results of studies of fungi in humans and publicly sticking their necks out.
In 2003, the Mayo Clinic addressed sinus infection in a study and found the presence of fungi in...nasal mucus. The answer to this problem - antifungal drugs. Treatments that had been used, such as antibiotics and steroids, provided less improvement than the antifungals recently tested. Now, this is a major breakthrough for anyone who believes fungus is the cause of health problems.
There are a large number of supplements and lifestyle changes that will eliminate the effects of fungus. If you're not accustomed to either of these, starting making them a part of your day. You will start feeling better.
The most effective supplemental antifungals we know of are olive leaf extract, caprylic acid, undecylenic acid, grapefruit seed extract, neem, apple cider vinegar, garlic, curcumin, and oil of oregano. Also, a probiotic is absolutely necessary.
Lifestyle changes that help are a healthy diet and exercise. A healthy diet means eliminating sugars and most carbohydrates for a period of time, which can be difficult, but essential. Starting an exercise program can be hard mentally and physically, so you may want to see a doctor first to determine what kind of exercise is best for you. Any type of exercise should be scheduled on a daily basis according to your routine and body type.
Familiarize yourself with fungus. It will help you realize how much sense there is to the connection between fungus and human illness.
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