EP. #21 WTF IS A VAGUS NERVE? - plus how to test your gut for pathogens & overgrowths
Aug 24, 2020
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The podcast explores the gut-brain connection, specifically focusing on gut infections and the importance of the vagus nerve. It delves into the link between gut bacteria and respiratory issues, arthritis, and musculoskeletal problems. The speaker shares their personal experience with a pathogen and the impact of modulating the microbiome on autoimmune conditions. It also discusses the journey of improving gut health and addressing infections. Other topics include kidney health, functional medicine for symptom relief, benefits of fasting and protein diets, plant fibers and bacteria, and root causes of Hashimoto's.
The vagus nerve plays a key role in keeping gut infections at bay.
Treating gut overgrowth and parasites requires personalized botanical and antimicrobial supplements.
Post-treatment maintenance is crucial for preserving gut health and preventing reinfection.
Deep dives
Importance of Gut Health and Immune System
The podcast episode discusses the crucial role of gut health in supporting a strong immune system. It emphasizes that the digestive process starts in the mouth and highlights the significance of stomach acid production, bile salts, and the vagus nerve in the digestion and absorption of nutrients. The episode also mentions the impact of gut overgrowth, specifically parasites, bacteria, and viruses, on overall health and well-being.
Treating Gut Overgrowth and Parasites
The podcast episode explains the approach to treating gut overgrowth and parasites. Specific botanicals and antimicrobial supplements are recommended based on the findings of individual GI map tests. The episode highlights the importance of supporting the liver and kidneys during treatment, as well as the use of binders to eliminate toxins released by dying parasites and bacteria. The role of intermittent fasting and the consumption of bitter foods in maintaining a healthy gut are also mentioned.
The Role of Maintenance and Oral Microbiome
The podcast episode emphasizes the importance of post-treatment maintenance in preserving gut health. Strategies such as introducing probiotics toothpaste, coconut oil pulling, and natural rinses are suggested to regulate the oral microbiome and prevent reinfection. The use of low-dose parasite formulas and binders for long-term support is recommended, along with continuous focus on optimizing stomach acid, vagus nerve stimulation, and regular cleansing protocols.
Long-Term Benefits and Results
The podcast episode discusses the long-term benefits of addressing gut health and treating overgrowth. It highlights the positive impact of using botanical formulas and maintenance protocols in alleviating symptoms and maintaining overall health. The importance of retesting gut flora and adjusting dosage based on individual needs is emphasized, and the possibility of including certain formulas, like Parapro, as a permanent part of a daily routine, is mentioned.
The importance of addressing parasites and using binders
The podcast discusses the significance of addressing parasites in the body, as they are most active during the full moon and can cause various symptoms. The speaker emphasizes the use of high-dose treatments before or after the full moon to ensure better and long-lasting effects. Additionally, the speaker mentions the use of binders, such as bio toxin binder, to mop up the toxins released by parasites after treatment.
Dietary changes for gut healing
The podcast explores the importance of making diet changes to heal gut-related issues. In the short term, a restricted diet like the low-FODMAP diet may be recommended for those with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) or an autoimmune disease. The focus is on eliminating foods that feed the bacteria causing the overgrowth. Gradually, healthy whole foods are reintroduced to test for any adverse reactions. In the long term, a paleo-like diet with a variety of nutrient-rich foods is suggested to maintain gut health and reduce inflammation. The speaker emphasizes the importance of individualization in dietary choices and avoiding foods that trigger negative reactions.
Ever since getting COVID from my dad and experiencing GI symptoms as my main presentation, the microbiome has clearly been at the top of my mind. I just got my GI Map results back from my doctor (which is an advanced DNA based stool test that looks for overgrowths of different pathogens), and we found some interesting bugs which reinforce that oral/gut connection I’ve been stressing in recent episodes. We even found a bug that may actually be contributing to my recent neck pain - I’m telling you, it’s alllll connected!
This episode could not come at a better time, as Dr. Stephanie Canestraro is here to bless us with some juicy tips on how she treats pesky gut infections and why the vagus nerve (the largest nerve in your body) is the key to keeping them away. After coming close to a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis and making a full recovery, Dr. Stephanie became passionate about the gut-brain connection, and is here to give us all the straight #facts about SIBO, bile salts, your microbiome and why oral care is imperative. Not only has she learned how to THRIVE with a sensitive system, she’s here to help us see the crucial connection between the gut and literally everything else — so buckle up for a deeply informative episode.
