By Joseph J. Burrascano Jr., MD

Introduction

A long time ago, after failing to control yeast overgrowths in my patients, I realized that the problem begins not in the GI tract, but in the mouth, with these organisms overgrowing on the oral mucous membranes and tongue (“thrush”). Then with every swallow, organisms would spread to the intestinal tract. Therefore to successfully control this problem, I instructed my patients to begin by cleaning out oral yeasts, then to immediately replenish the beneficial flora in the mouth. Finally, specific general anti-yeast support is added to maximize their chance for success. Here are the specifics.

Oral Hygiene

Brush the teeth, gums, inner cheeks, tongue and palate for 30 seconds while holding an antiseptic mouthwash in the mouth (see below). Then, rinse one or two times by brushing while holding plain water in the mouth. Follow by brushing with a gentle toothpaste to be sure all debris is removed. Don’t forget regular flossing!!

Antiseptic Mouthwash. Because most antiseptic mouthwashes contain harsh chemicals, colorings and flavorings including sweeteners, I recommend a more unusual but logical antiseptic that you make yourself: a very weak Modified Dakin’s solution. Make this by mixing one teaspoon of household liquid bleach (yes, bleach like Clorox®!) into four ounces of water. Note that using a rather strong antiseptic is usually a one-time treatment and is not meant to be done daily. However, it may have to be repeated from time to time if necessary.

Because the germ count, both harmful and beneficial, will be artificially reduced after such a cleaning and because yeasts are opportunists, the yeast infection can come back if this is all that you do. Therefore, after using an antiseptic, it is necessary to immediately replenish the beneficial flora in the mouth so the yeast will be crowded out and a more normal oral flora can result. The product I recommend is OraMax by Researched Nutritionals, the first and best product crafted to optimize oral hygiene in this way. Use it by dissolving one tablet in the mouth twice a day, preferably right after routine oral hygiene and definitely after using the antiseptic mouthwash.

GI Tract

An overgrowth of yeast here will ferment dietary sugars and starches, forming acids, gas, alcohols and a variety of organic chemicals. In addition, intestinal yeasts can form biofilms that can trap other pathogens, including viruses. To control intestinal yeast, first the oral cavity must be managed as described above so yeast does not reenter the system with every swallow. Then use agents designed to support intestinal defense and clean out unwanted pathogens.
Finally, just as with the oral cavity, replenish the GI tract with beneficial organisms.

Intestinal Support. General antimicrobial support with Microbionate® is where I begin. I often add Elim-A-Cand™, which is more specific for problematic yeasts.

Probiotics. I have found it essential to use a product that contains a variety of beneficial organisms, including spore-based ones. No longer is a single agent like Lactobacillus acidophilus thought to be sufficient. The one I prefer is Multi-Biome™ by Researched Nutritionals. Use daily.

Prebiotics. Although not meant to be specific for GI yeast, one of my favorite supplements for my chronic TBD patients is ATP Fuel®. Turns out, not only does this offer support for cellular membranes and therefore mitochondrial health, it also contains significant amounts of prebiotics. Prebiotics are a form of dietary fiber that support the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. A win-win!

Diet. Since yeast germs feed on sugars and starches, the diet must be low in simple carbohydrates. Adding a variety of high-fiber foods is also important to supply additional prebiotics.

I hope that you are able to benefit from my recommendations. Best wishes for the best in health!