Speedrunning results on the fungal protocol with beneficial yeast

This mini-protocol is particularly good if you’ve had tons of reoccurrent yeast infections (you can use it during the protocol and or after to prevent reoccurrence: almost as a bridge between the fungal protocol and transitioning fully off it) OR if you’re having a lot of GI distress during the protocol. It’s also good for those traveling while doing the protocol to help stabilize the system against any unwanted changes in the microbiome

Saccharomyces boulardii is a probiotic yeast that has been studied for its effects on candida (fungal/yeast) infections. This is why S boulardii remains a critical component of the fungal protocol. Today we’ll be discussing some ways you can use it (in mega doses) to ‘speedrun’ the elimination of Candida in the gut, as well as a novel strain (not in the fungal protocol) that has some unique benefits for those with GI complaints.

How does SB work?

Studies have shown that SB can inhibit the adhesion of Candida albicans to intestinal epithelial cells. This adhesion is a necessary prerequisite for Candida to enter into its more aggressive hyphae form, where it burrows into the tissue, creates biofilms, and becomes more difficult to treat.

Many studies have demonstrated that both S boulardii cells significantly reduced the adhesion of candida to human intestinal cell lines (Caco-2 and I ntestin 407). This was associated with a decrease in the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and candida virulence (how aggressive the infection is) as well.

boulardii has been used as a biotherapeutic agent for many gastrointestinal diseases as well. It may act by creating a physical barrier, aggregating pathogens, and producing metabolites that directly inhibit the growth and virulence of Candida species as well. For example, SB is capable of directly producing anti-fungal agents that attack candida directly. In fact, one of the anti-fungals that SB produces is caprylic acid — one of the constituent supplements in the fungal protocol.

SB has also been observed to inhibit the translocation of candida from the gastrointestinal tract to other parts of the body, such as the bloodstream and internal organs. SB can significantly reduce the colonization of candida in the intestines and its subsequent spread to mesenteric lymph nodes and other organs in animal models. This is particularly important as translocation is precisely what leads to systemic infections all over the body.

In my opinion, this is probably one of the most beneficial aspects of treatment with SB. If we can prevent the spread of Candida out of the gut, we can effectively mitigate any potential of future infectious relapse. This will also make treatment in the gut itself easier, as we can divert more of our biological resources towards one ‘problem area’

Here are some other ways SB works

As mentioned, SB’s mechanisms of action are multifaceted and contribute to both the prevention and management of Candida. Here’s some other ways in which it’s been shown to work.

1. immune system modulation

SB enhances the host's immune defense by stimulating the intestinal mucosa. It secretes trophic factors and polyamines that support the gut lining. By reinforcing barrier function against pathogens, we can also help minimize the spread of infection. This immune modulation is crucial in maintaining a balanced gut microbiome and preventing dysbiosis, which can also lead to co-infections like SIBO in the small intestine. Remember, candida loves to hide out in SIBO biofilms. SB is also effective against SIBO, which is why I believe the fungal protocol is also effective for those suffering with Candida AND bacterial co-infections

2. Reducing inflammation

By mitigating inflammatory responses in the gut, it can also helps to create an environment less conducive to candida colonization and growth. This anti-inflammatory effect is particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from inflammatory bowel diseases, where opportunistic pathogens like candida and SIBO flourish particularly well.

3. Competitive exclusion (super key)

Just like our spore probiotics, SB competes with candidates for resources and space in the gut. By occupying niches within the GI, it can effectively displace candidates populations. Research has shown that SB ‘plays’ particularly well in the gut with our health commensal bacteria as well as our spore based probiotics.

How do we use it? Who is this mini-protocol for?

If you’re following the fungal protocol, you’re probably already using SB as it’s one of the supplements listed in the guide.

However, if you’re willing to spend a little extra money, you can double or even triple your dose of SB for a month or two to possibly speedrun your results on the fungal protocol.

This may be primarily desirable for individuals who are expericing a lot of side effects like gas, bloating and diarrhea. Both on the protocol and or prior to starting. One of the primary studied benefits of SB (outside of its application for treating candida) is its ability to prevent diarrhea, loose stool and other GI complaints.

You also may want to try another form combined with some higher doses of a few strains found in the Just Thrive probiotic. RestoreFlora is a probiotic from microbiome labs, containing a novel strain of SB shown to be particularly effective for GI distress. This product also contains a slightly higher dose of HU58, as well as bacillus clausii, two spores In the JT probiotic that are particularly effective at cleaning up the gut and going after pathogens like candida. You could replace the saccromyces in the guide with this strain if you fit this description. You can find it on Amazon.

You’d ideally want to take somewhere between 4-6 capsules of this one daily for 2-4 weeks. This would constitute a ‘mega-dose’

Another consideration — if you’re someone that tends to be more on the constipated end of the spectrum, this may not be the right approach for you, as SB can make constipation slightly worse in these individuals. Just use the normal dose if this is you.

Transition off the fungal protocol

One question I frequently receive is how to prevent a recurrence of yeast after completing the fungal protocol. Truthfully, this shouldn't happen if you slowly begin to reintroduce fiber (refer to the fiber article) and continue taking your spore-based probiotics. Some individuals may want to stay on supplements like saccharomyces boulardii for 1 to 3 months following the fungal protocol to ensure that recolonization does not occur. This may be particularly important for individuals who: 1. Have a long history of frequent, recurring yeast infections (remember, men can get yeast infections, though they are usually in the gut); 2. Travel frequently, especially across time zones (which can disrupt the microbiome); or 3. Experience a lot of stress in their lives (another significant strain on the microbiome).