Justin Wood wrote:Tina,
Don't give up searching and seeking.
Of course, I am not a medical professional and I am not giving medical advice.
Oh, yes, of course it is understood that you are not trying to diagnose or prescribe.

(always wise to add the disclaimer!)
Justin Wood wrote:First the dog -
Some of our family was struggling with major systemic candida overgrowth. After of years of trying all kinds of natural remedies, within 1 month of using DE and CB with heavy probiotics, this person has had a major breakthrough in that area. I think this would help your dog. I would just mix it into the food of the dog daily for 30 days. I would start with around 1 teaspoon and move up to 1 tablespoon.
That is good to hear and I will definitely give it a try.
Justin Wood wrote:Now you -
I would talk to your health professional about whatever you decide with DE/CB.
I have a good friend who struggles with something autoimmune. His body seems to just freak out at random. He has been to every specialist and has no clear understanding so I am sympathetic to your situation.
For non-autoimmune sufferers, I would tell them to just try it and see what happens. I am sure that 10+ years on this rollercoaster makes you reluctant to try anything that could send your system into chaos.
From what I understand, all autoimmune stems from the gut and probably the nutrient absorption.
One does have to be a little more careful when trying something new to avoid a flare. You are correct that the prevailing thought is that all autoimmune conditions stem from the gut because the gut is the center of our immune system.
Justin Wood wrote:I have read several things that talk about parasites in the system will probably remain in the system despite eating a GAPS or other type diet. Parasites seem to be in the blind spot of the medical professionals here in the USA. So I think parasites could be a hindrance to anyone's detox - autoimmune or otherwise.
Very true -- no diet really addresses parasites per say because parasites don't eat the food passing through our digestive system, they eat us. I used to say that I don't have a parasite problem because I've had colonoscopies and no parasites were found. But, that only addresses the larger parasites, not necessarily the more microscopic ones.
Justin Wood wrote:You can talk it over with your healthcare provider. The usual thought is to start with 1 teaspoon, but you might want to start with like 1/4 teaspoon for 2 weeks. Then go up to half teaspoon for 2 more weeks all the way up to 1 tablespoon.
A gradual build up is wise for autoimmune conditions for sure. I will heed the advise to do so.
Justin Wood wrote:I wish I had the answer. I would love to hear what you do or don't do.
Blessings.
Don't we all. If we had the answer, we could get rich because there is a lot of people suffering from autoimmune issues. While I'm sure there are multiple causations, I have my theories regarding all the chemicals in the food. Parasites are another but I tend to think they are just opportunistic in attacking an already sick host. And, many other potential causes as well. Be that as it may, I think I will give the DE/CB a try. Once I start, I'll report my experience here in this forum for anyone who might be interested.