It is highly recommended that with any infection caused by bacteria, fungus, etc. you have your doctor run a

Culture & Sensitivity Test.

  This way you know what is going to kill the harmful pathogens and get rid of them.  Then you also need to

understand how you got the infection in the first place.

Here is one test to check out:  GI Effects Chemistries Profile - Stool

To help eradicate harmful pathogens:

1. 

Microbial Defense:

  consider taking 1-2 capsules two to three times a day before a meal to help support the body's ability to fend off the candida, yeast, fungus, bacteria, viruses, parasites, and other unwanted pathogens.  Start with less and increase if you don't have any unwanted side effects. 

2. 

Saccharomyces boulardii: 

 consider taking 25 billion saccharomyces boulardii during times of unwanted harmful bacterial infections as research supports its use heavily for clostridium difficile (c. diff) and other infections such as giardia.  Saccharomyces is beneficial yeast which is naturally in our gut in small amounts.  Taking this and a probiotic is important for anyone with a history of  being off and on antibiotics.

3. 

ProBiota 12 Probiotic Powder: 

 consider taking 100 billion to 400 billion beneficial bacteria during an infection of undesired intestinal or internal bacteria.  The powder form of ProBiota 12 is more potent than the capsules and is ideal in a situation where the unwanted bacteria are housed in the throat or mouth.  Take the probiotic powder everyday, about 10 minutes after dinner.  Take 1/2 tsp. to start.  You may experience some gas and bloating.  If the gas or bloating is untolerable, decrease to 1/4 tsp.  If you can tolerate the gas and bloating, let it subside and then increase to 1 tsp. and stay there for about 1 month. After one month decrease to 1/4 tsp. and eventually 1/8 tsp.

4. 

PreGestion:  

if stomach acid is low, one is more predisposed to a parasitic infection or unwanted bacteria.  Stomach acid is our natural defense against these types of invaders.  Ensure your stomach acid is working properly.  Consider taking 1 to 2 capsules during meals to increase stomach acid - especially important while traveling in third world countries or where hygiene is not practiced properly. 

Disclaimer:

Always talk with your doctor about infections as they can become life threatening.  Any information provided is merely to support your understanding - not to treat, diagnose or prescribe.

Re-posted per Dr. Ben’s podcast on 8/24/11.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist