by Dr. Tina Marcantel
Research suggests that some chronic diseases such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis may be caused by the presence of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), also known as a cause of mononucleosis (or “the kissing disease”). EBV affects the central nervous system, which can result in fatigue, anxiety and insomnia. EBV may be contracted at an early age and then may remain dormant in the tissue for years; under certain conditions (for example, chronic stress) it may reactivate. It has been theorized that the reactivation of the virus in the tissue of the thyroid gland may trigger an autoimmune response in the body, resulting in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
Epstein-Barr virus
A 2015 Polish study found the Epstein Barr Virus in the thyroid cells of 80% of people with Hashimoto’s and 62.5% of people with Graves’, while controls did not have EBV present in their thyroid cells. (Epstein Barr and Hashimoto’s: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25931043)
A simple blood test to see if EBV is present should be done for confirmation.
The EBV may flourish when the presence of heavy metals such as aluminum (ingested from food or drink cans), mercury (amalgam used in old dental fillings and also found in some seafood), and lead are present in the body.
Because these factors contribute to chronic disease such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, I choose a practical protocol for my clients that includes helpful diet choices and food supplements. The protocol is a gentle detox that helps remove heavy metals and flush EBV neurotoxins out of the liver, while strengthening the immune system. The viral load of EBV creates neurotoxins that can affect the adrenals, brain, digestive system, and other organ systems, making this protocol safe and effective for other chronic illnesses, as well.
The protocol is divided into two categories:
Food
*Cilantro—Removes heavy metals that the EBV thrives on. Fresh cilantro is good, but you can use concentrated cilantro drops that can be added to your morning drink for convenience.
*Coconut oil—A natural antiviral that acts as an anti-inflammatory (thyroiditis is inflammation of the thyroid gland)
*Wild blueberries—Good antioxidants; assists in flushing EBV neurotoxins out of the body.
*Fennel—Acts as an antiviral to lower the EBV viral load.
*Parsley—Lowers levels of aluminum that contribute to EBV.
*Garlic—Antiviral and antibacterial that lowers EBV viral load. (I use AlliUltra supplement also to get a therapeutic amount of garlic).
Supplements
*Barley Grass Extract Powder (Green Magma Barley Grass Juice)—Contains chlorophyll, active enzymes, and antioxidants that cleanse the body and decrease free radicals that contribute to diseases. Also promotes energy and metabolism and supports the immune system. (Not to be confused with barley grain, which has gluten in it.)
*Spirulina powder (Spirulina Pacifica Hawaiian)—Eliminates heavy metals and boosts energy and immunity.
*Cilantro Compound drops—Helps remove heavy metals.
Barley grass extract draws out heavy metals from your affected organ systems and Spirulina absorbs and excretes these heavy metals from your body. Mix 1-2 tsp of BGE and Spirulina together with cilantro drops and 12 oz water or coconut water and put in blender. Drink 1-2 per day depending on individual needs.
*Silver Hydrosol—Easily absorbed/small particles. Will increase immune system and decrease EBV viral load.
*Allicin powder capsules (AlliUltra)—Allicin is the active medicinal part of garlic. It is naturally antibacterial and antiviral and helps defend against EBV.
*Red Marine Algae (RMA)—Reduces mercury and is a potent antiviral.
*Cat’s Claw—An herb that is antiviral and antibacterial.
*B-complex—Strengthens the central nervous system that the EB virus can affect.
*Ester-C—Assists flushing EBV from liver and boosts immune system.
This is a generalized protocol. The specific supplement/herb and dosage will depend on the individual’s personal needs; for instance, based on signs and symptoms, medical history, and lab test findings.
For more information on the diagnosis and treatment of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis please see the following articles:
Thyroid Disease–Why It’s Often Missed by Your Doctor
Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis–Identification and Treatment
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