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Page 298
| Diarrhea |
| As a result of radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and the regular use of antibiotics (which are often given to cancer patients with suppressed immune systems to inhibit bacterial infections), bowel health is seriously disrupted and very often can lead to chronic diarrhea and malabsorption. A few supplements can really help. The first thing to do is to normalize the gut flora. I recommend the following three supplements: |
| 1. Saccharomyces boulardii (SB) is a nonpathogenic yeast originally isolated from the surface of lichee nuts. It has recently been getting attention as a treatment for AIDS-related diarrhea. In my experience, I have found this to be one of the best supplements available not only for AIDS-related diarrhea, but for all drug-induced gastric conditions, particularly diarrhea caused by antibiotics that disrupt the gut's flora. SB is very effective against yeast infections as well as bacterial infections. Because it enhances the immunological system of the gut's barrier function, SB is widely used in Western Europe to prevent diarrhea and other gastrointestinal diseases associated with antibiotic use. Unlike other probiotic supplements, such as lactobacillus, SB works in a full pH range; it resists gastric acid and is not killed off by antibiotics. Dose: 2 to 3 capsules three to four times daily. |
| 2. Whey protein. The benefits of low-temperature whey protein, as discussed in the previous section include its ability to promote muscle growth, inhibit wasting syndrome, enhance glutathione, and enhance many immune-modulating functions. Dose: 1 to 4 tablespoons daily, mixed into juice or yogurt. I recommend Probioplex (see Resources). |
| 3. Lactobacillus acidophilus and other live, active cultures help to restore healthy bacteria. Dose: 2 to 3 capsules of PB8 acidophilus daily (see Resources). |
| Other Helpful Supplements |
| Berberine-containing plants, such as goldenseal, are not only excellent for their antidiarrheal activity, but they also inhibit many bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens. |
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