Aloe vera is probably the most important medical food you should have for your healing.
Aloe vera has been considered a medical plant for thousands of years, thanks for its potential of remedying many of our common human ailments.
Did you know that 2000 years ago the Greek scientists regarded Aloe vera as a universal panacea? The Egyptians named the plant “the plant of immortality”.
Aloe vera has a long history of popular and traditional use such as for digestive issues, skin issues and infections, as well as high blood pressure and diabetes.
In Chinese medicine, it is often recommended to treat fungal diseases such as Candida.
Did you know that there is a total of 75 potentially active constituents that have been reported in the Aloe Vera plant? That includes things such as essential amino acids, vitamins, minerals, sterols, saponins among many more.
Aloe Vera provides 20 of the 22-human required amino acids, and 7 of the 8 essential amino acids.
It is also a good source of vitamin A, C, E, B1, B2, B3, B6, folate and choline. It contains many immune boosting minerals such as zinc, magnesium, copper, as well as calcium, manganese, chromium, selenium, potassium and sodium.
For those of you who have ran a hair tissue mineral analysis with me and found imbalances in your minerals, this is the perfect food.
In addition, some of these minerals are antioxidants and also support phase 1 and 2 liver detox pathways.
Mode of Action
The healing property of Aloe vera is associated with a compound called glucomannans, which is enriched with polysaccharides (such as mannose).
Aloe’s polysaccharides are known to have significant immunoregulatory and immunostimulatory activities. Aloe’s polysaccharides, particularly mannose-containing polysaccharides, cellulose, and pectic polysaccharides, comprise the major part of Aloe vera gel. Acetylated glucomannan is primarily responsible for the gel’s mucilaginous properties. Glucomannan has been found in vitro and in animal studies to modulate immune function (through macrophage activation and cytokine production) and accelerate wound healing The main effects include stimulation of phagocytosis, oxidative effects, and stimulation of humoral immunity (Foster et al, 2011)
The polysaccharides mend fibroblast growth factor and encourages the activity and proliferation of these cells result in more collagen and elastic fibers production. It also improves transversal connections among these bands making the skin more elastic and less wrinkled.
Mucopolysaccharides help in binding moisture into the skin and have anti-aging effect. There are some reports of aloe having an antitumor and antimicrobial effect as well but directly and indirectly. Direct effects are due to Anthraquinone which inactivate various enveloped viruses such as herpes simplex, influenza and varicella zoster. Indirect effect involves stimulation of the immune system _Kazina et al, 2017). Some components such as salicylic acid within aloe can promote anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Other antiseptic agents include slupeol, salicylic acid, cinnamonic acid, phenols and sulfur that have an inhibitory action on bacteria, viruses and fungi. And some of the compounds present in aloe mucilage inhibit the production of reactive oxygen species and free radicals from human neutrophils.
ALOE VERA FOR DIGESTION AND BLADDER
But most importantly for IC Healers is the healing potential of aloe for digestive issues. As we know, there is a link to gut health and bladder health, as I explain in my IC Self Healing Course. In fact, a good % of people with bladder issues have leaky gut, and about 40% have small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). Research has found that aloe vera gel was safe and effective of the “wound hormone” which was later identified as Acemannan. In fact, consuming aloe orally appeared to be the best route of administration for gut health.
Aloe vera contains a natural buffer system that can restore a healthy level of stomach acid by raising the pH enough to relieve discomfort of indigestion, but not enough to trigger the release of more acid. As a result, it appears to have a modulatory effect on digestion.
Aloe also functions as a prebiotic to promote the growth of good flora to optimize digestive function. Prebiotics promote the growth of beneficial bacterial populations such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species in the colon, accompanied by the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) through fermentation processes. These events have been associated with a lower risk of nontransmissible chronic diseases, including some types of cancer such as colorectal cancer. A recent study by Quezada et al (2017)
It has been shown that human intestinal flora metabolizes polysaccharides after ingestion of Aloe vera. There is some evidence that aloe vera by healthy individuals aids in the health of the bacterial flora which in turn results in improved health of the digestive system as a whole. This was evidenced by better protein digestion when tested from urine samples.
In addition, Aloe vera increases collagen content and degree of collagen cross linkage within the wound, therefore supporting faster wound healing
Stomach acid balancing, soothing of the gastrointestinal tract, promoting growth of good bacteria and delivery of the wound hormone Acemannan are some of the properties that have made Aloe vera the plant of choice for ages. Daily oral consumption of Aloe vera can eliminate dependence upon both types of drugs commonly used to control excessive hydrochloric acid without any of the negative side effects. To reduce potential contamination of the digestive tract from pathogens it is important to consume properly processed organic Aloe vera inner leaf gel powder from a reputable source.
More on Acemannan
As I said above, the nutraceutical properties of Aloe vera have been attributed to a glucomannan known as acemannan. Acemannan is a β(1,4)-acetylated mannan-based polysaccharide derived from the plant aloe vera (Barbadensis milleri). The reported range of biological effects of acemannan includes:
- stimulation of the production of IL-1a, TNF-a, IL-6, nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2 by macrophages
- enhanced macrophage phagocytosis
- antiviral activity
- induction of tumor cell apoptosis or necrosis
Acemannan strengthens and supports the immune system by activating the macrophages, antibodies, and the killer cells. It lowers the tendency of the body to develop allergies. Hence,
Acemannan possesses characteristics that stimulate the immune system, are antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal. This means that Aloe Vera can prohibit Candida growth. In a study by Radha (2014), they indicated that aloe vera demonstrated antimicrobial activity against Candida paraprilosis, Candida krusei, and Candida albicans. In addition, A. vera has anthraquinones as an active compound, which is structural analogue of tetracycline. The anthraquinones acts like tetracycline that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by blocking the ribosomal A site (where the aminoacylated tRNA enters)(Radha & Laxmipriya, 2015). Polysaccharides of A. vera gel have been attributed direct bacterial activity through the stimulation of phagocytic leucocytes to destroy bacteria. A. vera contains pyrocatechol a hydroxylated phenol, known to have toxic effect on microorganisms such as H. Pylori as well, a well known cause of gastric infection.
It is especially the Acemannan which appears to enforce the production of butyrate. Butyrate belongs to the short-chain fatty acids, which are of immense importance for the intestinal immune system.
OTHER BENEFITS OF ALOE
- Oral hygiene– A lesser known benefit of the Aloe Vera is that it helps fight gum disease. If you want a natural, chemical free solution to bleeding and tender gums, Aloe is a natural anti-inflammatory. This is especially important for those who have chronic UTI’s and embedded infections, as there are some links the Aloe has had positive results in treating ulcerative colitis.
Be warned, the taste leaves a lot to be desired. Many people have described the gel that comes from certain strains of the plant as bitter and nauseating, but the benefits outweigh the sacrifice of having the taste linger in your mouth for some time. If the taste is too much to bear, you also have the choice of using a sweetened Aloe Vera-based toothpaste.
2. Fasting, detox and weight loss- Aloe Vera has most recently been used in trendy juice cleanses and juice fast, and studies have shown that certain properties of the plant can promote weight loss. The detoxifying effect can clean out the colon and can also increase your metabolic rate. Bear in mind that healthy weight loss is only possible in conjunction with a healthy diet and a regular exercise schedule. You may also lose weight if you use Aloe Vera, as it will stop your body from retaining too much water, which causes bloating.
BEWARE OF IMPOSTER!
Despite clear beneficial effects of Aloe vera polysaccharides, some problems remain. There are virtually hundreds of different preparations on the market, vastly differing in types and quality of isolation, purity, and subsequently, their biological activities. Therefore, your aloe may not have any of the therapeutic and healing properties we mentioned.
Here are a few of the issues:
- Some commercial aloe products found in your health food store is NOT 100% aloe Vera, it is extremely filtered. The product manufacturers filtering the nutrients and antinutrients and bottling the water. That is why it doesn’t need preservatives and has an extremely long shelf life. That is also why it tastes like water. The water came out of the aloe plant. True aloe would have a very short shelf life.
- Most of your commercial aloe products does not have their own aloe firm. They are getting it from a 4th party as a powder. Often, it has been pasteurized prior to becoming a powder, which can ruin the properties of the aloe
- Pay attention when they dump in activated carbon and diamatecous earth to “purify it”. They push through a pressure filter to take it out. At the end they are testing the clear liquid. They are removing the color and odor which are the nutrients.
- Aloe vera gel often has added carrageenan that makes you think you are taking true aloe when in fact you are not.
I will be doing an interview with Dr. Haley, owner of Stockon aloe to discuss some of these and more. Stay tuned for the YouTube link below.
Here is a table that summarizes some of the many powers of aloe vera. It should be included in your healing regimen, provided that it is good quality as discussed. I strongly recommend the Stockton aloe as a medicinal food. I usually will purchase an 8-pack and freeze it to consume before my seasonal detox programs.
To order aloe, VISIT THIS LINK. I recommend you start with a 2 count first to see how you do, I am sure you will LOVE IT.
References
Amin K, Ozgen S, Selamoglu Z. Aloe Vera: a miracle plant with its wide-ranging applications. Pharm Pharmacol Int J. 2018;6(1):1-2. DOI: 10.15406/ppij.2018.06.00144
Foster M, Hunter D, Samman S. Evaluation of the Nutritional and Metabolic Effects of Aloe vera. In: Benzie IFF, Wachtel-Galor S, editors. Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd edition. Boca Raton (FL): CRC Press/Taylor & Francis; 2011. Chapter 3
Radha, M. H., & Laxmipriya, N. P. (2015). Evaluation of biological properties and clinical effectiveness of Aloe vera: A systematic review. J Tradit Complement Med, 5(1), 21-26. doi:10.1016/j.jtcme.2014.10.006
Vetvicka, (nd) Evaluation of immunological activities of an organic freeze dried inner leaf Aloe vera L powder
I love strawberries! They are high in Vitamin C and just delicious on salads. Sadly, they also can cause pain in many people who have mast cell activation disorder. Read below….
I have recently become very interested in histamine intolerance and mast cells, and strawberries is on the list of foods high in histamine. There is some significant research being done on mast cell activation, autoimmune disease and the immune system. Histamine intolerance is the disequilibrium between accumulated histamine and histamine degradation (Manzotti, Breda, Di Gioacchino, & Burastero, 2016). Histamine degradation is dependent on the primary enzyme, diamine oxidase (DAO). Histamine is a biogenic amine found in foods such as pickles, matured cheese, fermented foods and leftovers. Some foods are histamine liberators and that includes fruits such as pineapples, bananas, citrus fruits, papayas and strawberries. The ingestion of histamine rich foods can provoke a variety of symptoms such as digestive, arrhythmia, flushing, asthma, hypotension, rhinoconjunctivitis, and headaches. Impaired DAO production is often the culprit, which can result in increased enteral histamine uptake and increased plasma histamine concentrations (Manzotti et al., 2016). Interesting the study by Manzotti demonstrated that 71% of patients reported functional bloating after consuming high histamine foods.
The latest research indicates that mast cells that release histamine and other inflammation in the bloodstream are active participants in autoimmune disease related tissue damage. Increased mast cell activity, release of histamine and other inflammatory agents are frequently seen in autoimmune conditions such as MS, RA and many others (Healing Histamine, n.d.). A variety of receptors including those engaged by antibody, complement, pathogens, and intrinsic danger signals are implicated in mast cell activation in disease (Brown & Hatfield, 2012). Mast cells can also recruit other immune cells such as neutrophils, to the sites of autoimmune destruction. “Mast cells can only act as accessory cells to the self-reactive T and/or antibody driven autoimmune responses” (Brown & Hatfield, 2012). This includes mast cells among one of the major contributors to autoimmunity and should definitely be considered.
Autoimmune and allergic diseases share fundamentally important features in that both are the result of “hypersensitive” immune responses directed toward inherently harmless antigens (Brown & Hatfield, 2012). An early progress of autoimmune disease involves the activation and expansion of T and/or antibody producing B cells that wear autoreactive receptors. These autoreactive T or B cells can then enter the bloodstream and migrate to sites of inflamed tissues expressing relevant autoantigens (Brown & Hatfield, 2012). “T cells, through the elaboration of cytotoxic mediators, and antibodies, through complement fixation or their ability to activate resident accessory cells such as macrophages and mast cells via Fc receptor engagement, can play direct roles in tissue destruction at these sites” (Brown & Hatfield, 2012)
In addition to eliciting the above described adaptive immune response, antigens can engage a class of danger- associated receptors on both adaptive and innate immune cells, including mast cells. These receptors include toll-like receptors (TLRs) and Nacht-LRRs (NLRs) (Brown & Hatfield, 2012). Activation of immune cells through TLRs and NLRs induces the expression of multiple inflammatory mediators that can ultimately result in local tissue damage causing the release of normally sequestered tissue antigen (Brown & Hatfield, 2012). Subsequent recognition of these antigens by T or B cells will induce activation and initiate autoimmunity. Alternatively, infection-induced activation of accessory immune cells, including mast cells, macrophages, and neutrophils, can boost inflammation and transform a relatively modest autoreactive response.
There is evidence that other TLRs are expressed on mast cells. For example, activation of mature mast cells through TLR2 results in their production of several pro-inflammatory cytokines critical in autoimmunity including IL-17, IFNγ, TNF, and IL-1β. Mast cells also express multiple IgG Fc receptors. This is significant because IgG autoantibodies are hallmarks of many autoimmune diseases and have been detected in multiple autoimmune diseases.
To learn more about healing form IC naturally, please visit our website: https://ichealer.com If you are looking for self healing, we recently launched our Self Healing IC Course featuring 10 hours of video designed to help you discover your root cause. Once you know your root cause, you can start your healing journey. To find out more information about our exciting new course, please find the information below:
Here is the link to preview the course: https://ichealer.com/online-course/
Here is the Podia Course Page: https://ichealer.podia.com/course
The first module is totally FREE. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. For more insightful videos on these burning topics, simply subscribe to this page so you can be notified of up to date information.
Join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/IC-Healer-103255207780907/
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References
Brown, M. A., & Hatfield, J. K. (2012). Mast Cells are Important Modifiers of Autoimmune Disease: With so Much Evidence, Why is There Still Controversy? Front Immunol, 3, 147. doi:10.3389/fimmu.2012.00147
Healing Histamine (n.d.). Histamine Intolerance, Mast Cells & Autoimmunity. Retrieved (2018, May 15) from https://healinghistamine.com/histamine-mast-cells-autoimmune-disorders/
Manzotti, G., Breda, D., Di Gioacchino, M., & Burastero, S. E. (2016). Serum diamine oxidase activity in patients with histamine intolerance. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol, 29(1), 105-111. doi:10.1177/0394632015617170
To purchase pH structured silver click here
I love to talk about things that are different than the conventional world.
I am here to talk about the benefits of Silver. As you know your body will heal itself if you give it the tools and silver is one of the tools that I use to give the body its ability to heal.
Silver destroys bacteria, yeast, mold and parasites. There is no antibiotic that can come close to that.
If you take 650 bacteria of bacteria that cause diseases and you put a broad spectrum bacteria like cipro,
And you put it in a petry dish, you know it only kills 22 out of the 650.
That’s pathetic? What happens to the other pathogens? Well, that is probably why you are here listening to this
This silver series is about Women’s issues. I have been following Dr. Gordon Pederson, the silver man. He is a naturophatic doctor with a PhD from the Toxicity program at Utah state. He is super knowledgeable and trust worthy.
He has education on silver and he particularly focuses on women. I have put a link below of his book below
I highly recommend you purchase it if you are interested in silver.
Why do I focus on women for this series? Well first, I am a woman.
Second, it is often an area that is overlooked in traditional medicine.
Silver is a women’s best friend. It destroys bacteria and yeast. It also destroys sexually transmitted diseases.
This blog series is a 3 part series on the benefits of silver relevant to women’s health. So let’s begin part 1.
The Need for Cleansing
Here is something that is not often discussed. The need for cleansing. Nobody talks about this. We clean our teeth. Some of us even do colon cleanses. But what nobody talks about is cleaning the female parts. The vaginal cavity is warm, moist cavity, and makes it the ideal place for the growth of bacteria, yeast and viruses. Problems can arise from poor hygiene, contamination, hormonal issues or genetics.
If you have pain, itchiness, foul odor, redness, swelling, cramps or abnormal bleeding, you have a problem. All of these situations respond to vaginal cleansing. Silver can destroy all the causes of vaginal problems whether it is bacterial, viral or fungal. The need for improved vaginal hygiene is evident when you research the sexually transmitted diseases, yeast infections and occurrence of viral infections that cause cancer of the uterus and cervix.
Structured Silver kills germs. These germs may be living in the pores (causing acne), in the vagina (causing a vaginal infection), in an eye (causing pinkeye), in the digestive tract (causing gas or a serious health problem), in a wound (obstructing healing or causing scarring), around a piercing (causing infection), on the cuticles (causing inflamed hangnails), on the lips (causing cold sores), in the bladder (causing bladder infection), on the toenails (causing odor or unsightly infections), etc.
Regardless of where they are growing, the problem is the same: germs are growing and disrupting your health.
If you can name an affected spot in or on your body and you can get silver into contact with germs that a growing there, that is where silver can help you.
If you keep silver in contact with the germs for six minutes, these germs will no longer be able to cause you health problems.
Silver IS the broad spectrum antimicrobial that:
Destroys pathogenic bacteria
Inhibits viral replication
Destroys many fungi, yeasts and protozoa
Structured Silver even kills antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria such as MRSA.
Some bacterial infections no longer respond to any drugs and problem is getting worse. However, due to the fact that Structured Silver kills bacteria differently than traditional antibiotics, it kills resistant and non-resistant bacteria alike.
Structured silver is remarkably safe. It can be used internally in any orifice of the body-vagina, bladder,ears, eyes
If taken internally, it selectively kills pathogenic bacteria while leaving healthy bacteria (probiotics) unharmed. The way this selection happens is similar to the way probiotics are able to survive within the harsh environment of the stomach and digestive tract.
Additionally, silver is already being used in hospitals, space shuttles, washing machines, water filters and many other settings for its ability to control unwanted microbes.
Yet it is so safe and non-toxic that it would take a spill of over 12 million gallons of 10 ppm silver before the EPA would consider it a reportable spill.
Silver is great for prevention- as little as 2 tsp per day is recommended for general use. And yes, this includes UTI’s
Unlike conventional antibiotics, which are only available by prescription and are typically not recommended for long-term use, Structured Silver is able to combat pathogens without creating resistance.
Silver passes through the body unmetabolized- which we will talk about later.
The result is that Structured Silver is just as effective at disinfecting when it is leaving the body (killing the germs that cause bladder infections and urinary tract infections) as it was when it was swished in the mouth several hours earlier (killing the germs that cause gum disease, bad breath, cold sores, etc.)
In between drinking and excretion, it will have been equally effective while circulating through the bloodstream (killing pathogens wherever the blood flows) or traveling through the digestive tract (killing pathogens like E. coli or Salmonella a person may have swallowed at lunchtime.)
For women who experience frequent bladder and urinary tract infections, this is welcome news. As urine gathers in the bladder and is excreted, the same silver that eliminated germs throughout the body will disinfect these organs as well. In the next blog, I am going to talk about a very unique characteristic of silver
To purchase pH structured silver click here
To learn more about healing form IC naturally, please visit our website: https://ichealer.com If you are looking for self healing, we recently launched our Self Healing IC Course featuring 10 hours of video designed to help you discover your root cause. Once you know your root cause, you can start your healing journey. To find out more information about our exciting new course, please find the information below:
Here is the link to preview the course: https://ichealer.com/online-course/
Here is the Podia Course Page: https://ichealer.podia.com/course
The first module is totally FREE. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. For more insightful videos on these burning topics, simply subscribe to this page so you can be notified of up to date information.
70% of the immune system in located in the gut (Lipski, 2013). The human body has several mechanisms that participate in regulating the immune system, including the innate immune system, adaptive immune system, immune-inflammatory response and regulatory system (Lipski, 2013). The innate immune system relies on certain receptors and secreted proteins that recognize common features of various pathogens (Chairatana & Nolan, 2017). The adaptive immune system employs allergic responses, are more specific to pathogenic invaders and take longer to respond to pathogens (Chairatana & Nolan, 2017).
The intestinal epithelium is a key contributor of innate immunity (Chairatana & Nolan, 2017). Throughout the digestive system we have immune tissue called GALT (gut-associated lymphoid tissue) and MALT (mucosal associated lymphoid tissue) that accounts for 70% of our immune system that protects us from antigens and foreign invaders (Lipski, 2013). “The intestinal epithelium is composed of four cell lineages, namely enterocytes, enteroendocrine cells, goblet cells, and Paneth cells, all of which are derived from a common stem cell progenitor in the intestinal crypts” (Chairatana & Nolan, 2017). The majority of epithelial cells bordering the intestinal lumen are absorptive enterocytes, which play a role in metabolism and digestion. Secretory intestinal epithelial cells (enteroendocrine cells, goblet cells, and Paneth cells) contribute to barrier function of the epithelium (Chairatana & Nolan, 2017). Cleary, mucosal immunity in the intestine involves a network of different types of cells that work together to provide barriers against microbes and also to maintain homeostasis (Chairatana & Nolan, 2017). If these surfaces are compromised, however, the bacteria, antigens and food particles can get into our blood and elicit inflammation and contribute to disease. As a result, defects in the innate immune system can result in increased susceptibility to Crohn’s disease and microbial infections (Chairatana & Nolan, 2017).
Secretory IgA (SIgA)
How does MALT convey the immune assault? Through a group of antibodies called Secretory IgA (SIgA). “The past several years have seen an emergence of evidence that indicates that SIgA influences the composition of the intestinal microbiota, promotes the uptake and delivery of antigens from the intestinal lumen to DC subsets located in GALTs, and influences inflammatory responses normally associated with the uptake of highly pathogenic bacteria and potentially allergenic antigens(Mantis et al., 2011).
SigA is an abundant antibody that is produced and released by plasma cells that dominates humoral immunity at the intestinal mucosa (Chairatana & Nolan, 2017). Interestingly, it protects mucosal surfaces by non-covalently cross-linking microorganisms or macromolecules, and then promotes the clearance of the entrapped microbes by peristalsis or mucocilary movement (Chairatana & Nolan, 2017). This process is called immune exclusion: “SIgA promotes the clearance of antigens and pathogenic microorganisms from the intestinal lumen by blocking their access to epithelial receptors, entrapping them in mucus, and facilitating their removal by peristaltic and mucociliary activities (Mantis et al., 2011). In fact, SIgA has a multi-faceted role in controlling inflammation and in regulating the immune responses to dietary antigens, commensal microflora and enteric pathogens (Mantis et al., 2011). “When challenged by foreign molecules, SIgA forms immune complexes with allergens and microbes”(Lipski, 2013).
In just the past several years, SIgA’s role has been identified as the following (Mantis et al., 2011):
- It has the capacity to directly quench bacterial virulence factors
- It can influence the composition of intestinal microbiota
- It can promote retro transport of antigens across the intestinal epithelium to dendritic cell subsets in GALT
- It can downregulate proinflammatory responses normally associated with the uptake of highly pathogenic bacteria and allergenic antigens.
- It can combat microbial infections that are fundamentally different from those used by antibodies in systemic compartments
- It can interfere with the earliest steps in the infection process by blocking toxins and pathogens from literally adhering to the intestinal epithelium.
I also found it interesting that SIgA can coat commensal microorganisms in a newborn’s mucosal to favor gut colonization to educate their early immune system (Mantis et al., 2011). In all pathways, pathogenic and non-pathogenic bacteria are coated by SIgA. The interaction between SIgA-coated commensal bacteria and the epithelium reinforces its barrier function through multiple mechanisms, including reinforcement of tight junctions, overproduction of Polymeric immunoglobulin receptor( pIgR), and reduction in nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells nFk-B (Mantis et al., 2011). Note-pIgRs are mainly located on the epithelial lining of mucosal surfaces of gastrointestinal, respiratory, and genitourinary tracts where they are involved in the trancytosis of soluble IgA to the apical side of the mucosal epithelial (Polymeric immunoglobulin receptor, n.d.).
So how do you measure SIgA? There are labs that can run saliva tests. According to BioHealth labs, “measuring salivary levels of sIgA is a clinical biomarker that generally mirrors the sIgA levels in other mucosal tissues (e.g., gut) and has become a convenient tool to monitor changes in mucosal immune status” (BioHealth Lab, n.d.). Using the ELISA testing method, the lab uses saliva testing that can analyze SIgA levels over the course of a single day.
The current established reference ranges for sIgA (Biohealth Labs, n.d.)
Low: <75.0 μg/ml
Equivocal: 75.0-145.0 μg/ml
High: 145.0-330.0 μg/ml
Calprotectin and lactoferrin can also be measured to assess GI inflammation (Lipski, 2013). In fact, calprotectin and lactoferrin are often elevated in inflammatory bowel disease, postinfectious IBS, cancer in the digestive system, some GI infections, chronic infections, NSAID overuse, true food allergies and chronic pancreatitis (Lipski, 2013). Another marker of GI inflammation eosinophil protein X which can determine whether some has parasites, allergies, asthma or eczema (Lipski, 2013).
High levels of SIgA are associated with acute stress, intestinal barrier dysfunction, acute oral or GI infection, heavy smoking, alcoholism, periodontitis, dental plaque accumulation. In general, high levels point toward the need to rule out active infections in the body. It could also indicate malnutrition, malabsorption, or the lack of HCL production in the stomach, allergies, liver problems, parasites, or autoimmune conditions (Lipski, 2013).
Deficiency of SigA is the most common immunodeficiency, and low levels are associated with infections, autoimmune diseases, celiac disease, chronic infection, and food allergies (Lipski, 2013). “A study examining people with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis found that all of them had low levels of SigA” (Lipski, 2013). So what can cause SIgA to become depleted? According to Lipski (2013), chronic stress, adrenal insufficiencies, oral bacteria, recurring infection, leaky gut, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, viruses, immune hypersensitivity and anti-inflammatory drugs can all lower SIgA. Low levels may be an indication of autonomic nervous system imbalance, chronic stress, damage to the intestinal barrier, chronic GI infections, food intolerance, gliandin intolerance, IBD and/or use of NSAID’s or steroid medications (Biohealth, n.d.). Persistent low levels can lead to chronic infections in lung, gut or genitourinary tracts (Lipski, 2013).
In addition, overuse of antibiotics can contribute to modification of immune recognition of intestinal bacteria that can alter the levels of SIgA in the GI tract (Dzunkova et al., 2016). The study by Dzunkova et.al evaluated SIgA patterns in people who have C. difficile infections, which is often associated with broad-spectrum antibiotic use that can disturb normal gut microbiome. “The SIgA opsonization of commensals and pathogens results in two different outcomes: the first being that the commensal SIgA-coated bacteria are maintained within the gut lumen, and the second being that the SIgA-coated pathogens attempting to cross the epithelial barrier are removed” (Dzunkova et al., 2016). These findings of the study suggest that the growth of C. difficile may be suppressed under normal conditions by the beneficial bacteria found in the GI tract, while the decrease of their activity due to antibiotics induces a “blooming” of C. difficile (Dzunkova et al., 2016).
Lifestyle and nutritional factors can influence SIgA levels (Lipski, 2013). Interesting, studies indicate that raising SIgA might eliminate IBD (Lipski, 2013). Nutrients such as choline, essential fatty acids, glutathione, glycine, phosphatidylcholine, quercetin, vitamin C, and zinc are just some of the nutrients that are required to maintain healthy SIgA levels (Lipski, 2013).
Below are a list of things that can raise SIgA levels ((Lipski, 2013):
- Probiotics-saccharomyces boulardii, bifidobacteria longum, lactobacillus casei
- Conjugated linolenic acid
- Colostrum
- Transfer factor
- FOS
- MCT oil
- Rest, relaxation and singing (glad my daughter loves to sing!)
Another thing Liz mentions in her book is that rebalancing the gut is key to quenching the fire. An elimination diet can reduce inflammation and pain faster than anything else (Lipski, 2013). Eating a “rainbow” of polyphenols, such as cherries and berries, can also downregulate inflammation and protect blood vessels. Foods such as tea, dark chocolate, onions, kale, broccoli, cabbage, beans, celery, parsley, clover, as well as nutritional supplements such as ECGC (green tea), quercetin, curcumin, ginger, boswellia, bromelain, alpha lipoic acid, omega-3 fats, reserveratrol and vitamin D (Lipski, 2013). Another thing that was mentioned in the book for reseting the immune system was using TSO whipworm eggs, which can help people with chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and poor detoxification. “Studies show dramatic remission rates in people with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis as well as allergies, eczema, MS, asthma, hay fever, type I diabetes and food sensitivities” (Lipski, 2013). More research on my plate of things to look into!
To learn more about healing form IC naturally, please visit our website: https://ichealer.com If you are looking for self healing, we recently launched our Self Healing IC Course featuring 10 hours of video designed to help you discover your root cause. Once you know your root cause, you can start your healing journey. To find out more information about our exciting new course, please find the information below:
Here is the link to preview the course: https://ichealer.com/online-course/
Here is the Podia Course Page: https://ichealer.podia.com/course
The first module is totally FREE. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. For more insightful videos on these burning topics, simply subscribe to this page so you can be notified of up to date information.
Join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/IC-Healer-103255207780907/
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References
Biohealth Laboratory. (n.d.) Secretory IgA: The First Line of Immune Defense. Retrieved from https://www.biohealthlab.com/test-menu/immunity/.
Chairatana, P., & Nolan, E. M. (2017). Defensins, lectins, mucins, and secretory immunoglobulin A: microbe-binding biomolecules that contribute to mucosal immunity in the human gut. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol, 52(1), 45-56. doi:10.1080/10409238.2016.1243654
Dzunkova, M., Moya, A., Vazquez-Castellanos, J. F., Artacho, A., Chen, X., Kelly, C., & D’Auria, G. (2016). Active and Secretory IgA-Coated Bacterial Fractions Elucidate Dysbiosis in Clostridium difficile Infection. mSphere, 1(3). doi:10.1128/mSphere.00101-16
Lipski, E. (2013). Digestion Connection New York, NY: McGraw Hill.
Mantis, N. J., Rol, N., & Corthesy, B. (2011). Secretory IgA’s complex roles in immunity and mucosal homeostasis in the gut. Mucosal Immunol, 4(6), 603-611. doi:10.1038/mi.2011.41
Should you do a liver gallbladder cleanse?
There is a popular new fad called a liver gallbladder cleanse that people on social media are raving about. Seems too good to be true, eh? Before you jump to do the gallbladder flush, I wanted to bring a few things to your attention. First of all, since you are not currently experiencing gallbladder symptoms, what is your primary driver to do the cleanse? Symptoms would include severe right upper quadrant pain, sometimes accompanied by nausea and vomiting after eating for 1-4 hours. Second of all, there use of the gallbladder flush is not backed by sound scientific evidence, it is mostly anecdotal. “Analysis of one group of passed “gallstones” revealed they consisted of 75-percent fatty acids and contained no cholesterol, bilirubin, or calcium. Further experimentation suggested the spheroids were ‘soap stones’, created by the interaction of digestive enzymes with certain components of olive oil and lemon juice” (Gaby, 2009). There are also complications associated with this method, if it really does mobilize gallstones. It may cause the stones to become trapped in the common bile duct, leading to a life- threatening medical emergency!
The good news is, gallstones are very common in Western populations. And evidence indicates that the risk can be reduced by implementing some simple lifestyle changes such as maintaining an idea body weight and consuming a healthy diet.
About 80% of these stones contain cholesterol, and the remaining 20% are pigment stones. There are also varying amounts of calcium salts, bile acids, and other components. Gallstone formation is called cholelithiasis and it can result from a combination of multiple factors, including supersaturation of bile with cholesterol and impaired gallbladder emptying. There are many reasons for this, so first, determine if any of these are a risk factor:
- Obesity / weight loss– obesity is associated with an increased risk of gallstones and weight loss may reduce the risk of gallstone formation if you are overweight. However, try to also avoid rapid weight loss, as it can promote the development of gallstones. Slow and steady
- Food allergy- do you have any known food allergies? Food allergy can be a common cause of gallbladder disease, and failure to recognize food allergies has resulted in many unnecessary surgeries. Perhaps a period on the Elimination diet is a better alternative to this cleanse. Food allergies are associated with an inflammatory response (allergic cholecystitis) as well as delayed gallbladder emptying, known to participate in gallstone formation. The risk of this is higher in celiac disease (Gaby, 2009).
- Are you eating a diet that is high in saturated fat but low in polyunsaturated fat? In observational studies, higher intake of saturated fat or trans fatty acids was associated with an increased incidence of gallstones (Gaby, 2009). In a few studies, patients who supplement with a therapeutic dose of fish oil are able to decrease cholesterol saturation of bile by 25%.
- Are you consuming too much refined sugar? Observational studies in humans have found that higher intake of refined sugars such as sucrose and fructose is associated with a higher frequency of gallstones (Gaby, 2009).
- Do you have low stomach acid? Low stomach acid is common among individuals with gallbladder formation, occurring in 52% of patients in one study (Gaby, 2009). The low stomach acid could be responsible for some of the nonspecific symptoms associated width belching, bloating, abdominal pain, and nausea. Supplementing with HCL (with pepsin) can help resolve some of these symptoms.
So should you do the cleanse?
Rather than doing the cleanse, here are some suggestions you my want to try first.
- Eat more vegetables and less meat– In a 20-year prospective study of 80,898 women found that increased consumption of vegetable protein was associated with a decreased risk of having a cholecystectomy
- Increase your fiber– there is evidence that a high fiber diet is associated with a reduce risk of gallstone formation. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and consider a fiber supplement if needed.
- Some nutritional supplements are associated with preventing the formation of gallstones, such as Vitamin C, Iron, and lecithin. Are you low in these nutrients? If so, you may want to increase the consumption of foods higher in vitamin C (citrus fruits, kiwi), iron (grass fed beef, lentils), lecithin (organ meats, eggs, seafood, brussels sprouts, broccoli, soybeans).
- If you do become symptomatic, there is a product called Rowachol which is an herbal oil preparation of six plant monoterpenes that has been on the market for over 50 years, that has been promoted as an agent with choleretic properties, inhibiting cholesterol crystallization in bile. It also can enhance the solubility of human T-tube and gall bladder bile. Improved effectiveness is observed when the agent is used in conjunction with ursodeoxycholic acid or chenodeoxycholic acid (Doran et al, 1979). Rowachol is given at a dosage of three capsules per day, alone or in combination with chenodeoxycholic acid or ursodeoxycholic acid (Gaby, 2009). It contains menthol (32%), menthone (6%), pinene (17%), borneol (5%), camphene (5%) cineol (2%), and base of olive oil (33%).
To learn more about healing form IC naturally, please visit our website: https://ichealer.com If you are looking for self healing, we recently launched our Self Healing IC Course featuring 10 hours of video designed to help you discover your root cause. Once you know your root cause, you can start your healing journey. To find out more information about our exciting new course, please find the information below:
Here is the link to preview the course: https://ichealer.com/online-course/
Here is the Podia Course Page: https://ichealer.podia.com/course
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References
Doran, J., Keighley, M. R., & Bell, G. D. (1979). Rowachol–a possible treatment for cholesterol gallstones. Gut, 20(4), 312–317. doi:10.1136/gut.20.4.312
Gaby, A. R. (2009). Nutritional approaches to prevention and treatment of gallstones. Altern Med Rev, 14(3), 258-267.
Probiotics can enhance your immune system!
The intestine is considered a key target organ to improve the quality of life in senescence, which can be modulated with a healthy lifestyle with a customized diet including probiotics. Probiotics are demonstrating immunomodulating properties that can alleviate the proinflammatory status of the elderly. “The preservation of gut barrier integrity and an increased ability to fight infections are the main reported immune benefits of probiotics” (Landete et al., 2017). In addition, the intake of a diet rich in phytoestrogens along with the presence of selected probiotic bacteria may lead to the production of equol, enterolignans, and urolithins, which are considered protective against chronic diseases related to aging.
Commensal bacteria can modulate the host inflammatory response, mainly by targeting NF- 𝜅B. According to Landete et.al, an aged-type microbiota shows low microbial biodiversity, enriched in pathobionts and facultative anaerobes and depleted of Firmicutes, which is linked with an increase of proinflammatory signals. Improving the profile of the gut microbiota through lifestyle and nutritional modifications may exert beneficial immunological effects. They can preserve the gut barrier integrity and function and regulate expression of tight junctions. “Probiotic treatments can ameliorate some of these processes modulating cytokine production, improving distribution and function of NK cells, macrophages, granulocytes, and T cells in the circulation, and enhancing mucosal and systemic antibody responses” (Landete et al., 2017). The presence of some beneficial microorganisms can also help the production of bioactive metabolites as equol, enterolignans, and urolithins. A diet rich in isoflavones, lignins from flaxseeds, or eggagitannisn from cherries/pomegranates would thus work synergistically with probiotics to activate these bioactive metabolites.
Below is a chart that summarizes some probiotics and how they influence immunity
Here is a screenshot of some important resources for probiotics and prebiotics (food for probiotics).
I have been very interested in histamine and histamine intolerance from the time I was first diagnosed with IC and noticed that allergy medications helped me during flare-ups. It is well known that there is an involvement of mast cells and cystitis related pain. “Interstitial cystitis has been found in combination with some allergic or autoimmune disorders and histopathological abnormalities resembling allergic disorders, including mast cell activation, histamine release, and eosinophil infiltration” (Lee, Doggweiler-Wiygul, Kim, Hill, & Yoo, 2006). Clinical studies demonstrate elevated mast cell numbers in the lamina propria of IC bladder biopsies. This may explain why neuromodulatory therapies suggest are partially effective in IC therapies, as “neural-immune interactions play a role in IC pathogenesis” (Rudick, Bryce, Guichelaar, Berry, & Klumpp, 2008). Mast cells contain preformed stores of immune mediators, such as histamine and TNF, and can be activated to release these stores by neurotransmitters such as substance P, a polypeptide thought to be involved in the synaptic transmission of pain and other nerve impulses. It is hypothesized that the activation of bladder related circuits in the CNS initiate substance P by peripheral nerves in the bladder can promote mast cell activation, mediated by substance P (Rudick et al., 2008). The mast cells are thought to induce bladder inflammation by acting on the bladder epithelium (lining). Also, increased levels of urinary histamine metabolites have been detected in IC patients. This is thought to be due to the accumulation of mast cells in the lamina propria.
A role for histamine and histamine receptors in pain responses has been documented in both humans and animal models. “However, histamine can be derived from various cell types, including mast cells, basophils, and histaminergic neurons” (Rudick et al., 2008). More recently, inflammatory cells such as neutrophils and dendritic cells have been shown to produce histamine. In fact, it has been demonstrated in various clinical settings that antihistamine therapy improves IC-related pelvic pain, and the mechanism for this effect is unknown. However, it can be inferred that this is due to histamine activation. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is another chronic condition that resembles IC in the characteristics of pathology. “In IBS, pain is correlated with activated colonic mucosal mast cells in proximity to nerves” (Rudick et al., 2008). In fact in IBS, colonic tissue extracts often reveal elevated histamine. These findings support the idea that mast cell histamine may mediate pain in multiple pelvic pain syndromes (Rudick et al., 2008).
With my clients, we have a test I run by Dunwoody that can test for histamine intolerance. This test will measure histamine levels, DAO (an enzyme that breaks down histamine), and DAO: histamine ratio. Classic symptoms of histamine intolerance include gas, high blood pressure, arrhythmia, nausea, hives, stomach ache, itching, cramps, headache, sneezing, dizziness, congestion, runny nose, shortness of breath, especially after meals containing histamine. Low DAO is also associated with the same symptoms along with inflammation, arthritis and certain neurological conditions such as MS. Low DAO is also associated with leaky gut and poor gut function and immunity. It can also be a trigger for depression and anxiety. Individuals with the inability to break down histamine seem to “react to everything” or seem to improve on anti-histamines. I have to mention that the low histamine diet, combined with DAO enzyme before meals, has been shown to be really helpful in managing IC pain related to mast cells. To really get on the road to healing and run some of the key functional tests, contact me at mandy@naturalhealthachiever.com so I can better guide you!
To learn more about healing form IC naturally, please visit our website: https://ichealer.com If you are looking for self healing, we recently launched our Self Healing IC Course featuring 10 hours of video designed to help you discover your root cause. Once you know your root cause, you can start your healing journey. To find out more information about our exciting new course, please find the information below:
Here is the link to preview the course: https://ichealer.com/online-course/
Here is the Podia Course Page: https://ichealer.podia.com/course
The first module is totally FREE. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. For more insightful videos on these burning topics, simply subscribe to this page so you can be notified of up to date information.
Join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/IC-Healer-103255207780907/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ichealerofficial/
Twitter https://twitter.com/ic_healer
References:
Lee, J., Doggweiler-Wiygul, R., Kim, S., Hill, B. D., & Yoo, T. J. (2006). Is interstitial cystitis an allergic disorder?: A case of interstitial cystitis treated successfully with anti-IgE. Int J Urol, 13(5), 631-634. doi:10.1111/j.1442-2042.2006.01373.x
Rudick, C. N., Bryce, P. J., Guichelaar, L. A., Berry, R. E., & Klumpp, D. J. (2008). Mast cell-derived histamine mediates cystitis pain. PLoS ONE, 3(5), e2096. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0002096
