Proper diagnosis is essential before using potent antimicrobials to treat gut issues.
Oregano oil should be used cautiously and under guidance from an experienced practitioner.
The 5R protocol for gut health needs to be augmented with critical thinking and individualized approaches.
Deep dives
The Problem with Harsh Antimicrobials
Many people are self-treating their gut with harsh antimicrobials without knowing what they are actually dealing with. It is important to properly diagnose the specific issue before using potent antimicrobials. Hammering the gut with these antimicrobials without accurate diagnosis can lead to short-term relief but long-term issues. Using antimicrobials without understanding the root cause can wipe out beneficial bacteria, leading to dysbiosis and opportunistic bacteria thriving. It is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of the problem and work with a skilled practitioner to develop an individualized plan.
Cautions about Oregano Oil
Oregano oil is a powerful antimicrobial, but its overuse can lead to antibiotic resistance and the killing of good bacteria. It is essential to have a proper diagnosis before using oregano oil. It is not recommended to take oregano oil internally without guidance from an experienced practitioner. Basic lifestyle changes such as stress reduction, sleep improvement, and dietary modifications should be addressed before relying on high-level interventions like oregano oil.
The Limitations of the 5R Gut Protocol
The 5R protocol, which includes remove, replace, reenoculate, repair, and rebalance, is commonly used in gut health. However, it should be augmented with critical thinking and individualized approaches. Starting with the basics, such as stress reduction and proper digestion, is crucial before diving into high-level interventions. Understanding the mechanisms and contraindications of various interventions, like probiotics and enzymes, is vital to achieve desired clinical outcomes. Additionally, placing too much reliance on the protocol may overlook the importance of customized plans based on individual contexts and test results.
The Role of Participating in Free Wellness
Participating in free wellness, including lifestyle changes and basics like proper sleep and stress reduction, is crucial before investing in expensive interventions or tests. Sleep, stress management, and adhering to mindful eating habits are foundational steps that can significantly contribute to gut health. Applying the five R protocol should be preceded by addressing these basic lifestyle factors and incorporating individualized approaches based on clinical data and professional guidance.
Importance of Using Probiotics with Antibiotics
When taking prescription antibiotics or herbal antimicrobials, it is important to also use probiotics to maintain a healthy gut ecosystem. Probiotics can temporarily fill the spaces left by killed-off microorganisms, preventing harmful bacteria and fungi from growing. Examples of probiotics to use alongside antibiotics include Saccharomyces blartii and consuming fermented foods. While probiotics are useful, they cannot fully restore the gut ecosystem after it has been disrupted.
Understanding Leaky Gut and Repairing the Gut Lining
The gut lining serves as a protective physical and biochemical barrier, regulating the flow of nutrients, preventing the entry of harmful substances, and facilitating communication between different components of the gut. When the gut lining is damaged, also known as leaky gut or intestinal permeability, it requires more than just glutamine and bone broth to repair. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate play a crucial role in gut health and immune regulation. Herbal antimicrobials can deplete beneficial microorganisms that produce SCFAs, exacerbating gut dysfunction. Understanding the cause of leaky gut and addressing underlying drivers, such as dysbiosis and cortisol imbalances, is essential for effective treatment.
Just because something is natural doesn’t mean it can’t harm you. Herbs have the capacity to negatively alter our gut microbiome if they aren’t used properly, so it’s important to know the root cause before diving into herbal remedies for gut problems. And it’s especially important to seek professional help rather than self-diagnosing and treating with potentially harmful remedies.
In this episode, Erin discusses problems with antibiotics and herbal remedies (spoiler alert: they have similar problems), why the 5R protocol needs a revamp, when it’s time to explore functional lab testing, and how to safely support your gut health at home. This conversation is also great for practitioners seeking to learn more about how to treat the gut safely and effectively!
If you’re a practitioner and looking for the education and expert support system to help you level up, the Funk’tional Nutrition Academy is currently open for enrollment, with only a few seats left! Spring Cohort begins April 1.
Timestamps:
(14:35) Parallels between antibiotics and herbal remedies
(21:32) Why you shouldn’t use grapefruit seed oil to treat your gut
(30:24) Oregano oil and its effects on beneficial bacteria
