Why I Don’t Bind with Sacch B – Dr. Crista
Curious why Saccharomyces boulardii (Sacch B) isn’t always the best choice for mold detox? You’re not alone! As a seasoned mold-treating doctor and author of Break the Mold, I’ve seen firsthand how Sacch B can backfire for some patients.
I’m here to share my insights on why I skip it as a binder and what to use instead. Ready to conquer mold and take back your health? Let’s dive in!
What Is Saccharomyces Boulardii?
Saccharomyces boulardii, or Sacch B, is a probiotic yeast often praised for gut health and toxin reduction. There are studies that show that Saccharomyces boulardii reduces certain mycotoxins. But there’s a catch:
- Animal Studies: Research shows Sacch B reduces mycotoxins in animals fed moldy feed, but there are some nuances.
- Binding or Degrading? Sacch B is added to moldy feed 2-3 days prior to use, so it can ferment and degrade the mycotoxins. It’s not as effective given at the same time as feeding.
- Human Context: In real life, especially with mold exposure from inhaling toxins in water-damaged buildings rather than eating them, it’s a different story.
Its role as a binder needs scrutiny. Think mold’s affecting you? Take my Mold Questionnaire to check.
Why Sacch B Isn’t My Go-To Binder
Based on the animal research, I tried Sacch B with patients, but the results raised red flags. When we added Sacch B, they became carb cravers. Here’s what happened:
- Carb Cravings: Unlike animals in studies, my patients could (and did!) indulge in pastries or pasta, derailing their detox.
- Worsening Symptoms: Patients reported more neurological issues (e.g., brain fog), cardiac symptoms (e.g., palpitations), and hormonal imbalances.
- Human vs. Animal: Animals can’t choose their diet, but humans can, making Sacch B’s effects less predictable in real-world mold detox.
The Zearalenone Problem
A scientific paper on Zearalenone (a mycotoxin from Fusarium mold) solved the mystery for me. Saccharomyces boulardii can keep the mycotoxin Zearalenone in its more reduced state longer. Here’s why that’s bad:
- More Toxic, Longer: Sacch B keeps Zearalenone in a more damaging form, prolonging its harm.
- Zearalenone’s Effects: It’s neurotoxic (brain fog, anxiety), cardiotoxic (heart issues), and an endocrine disruptor (hormonal imbalances)—matching my patients’ symptoms.
- Study Reference: Ropejko K, Twarużek M. Toxins (Basel). 2021;13(1):35. doi: 10.3390/toxins13010035.
This explains why Sacch B made things worse for some. Why risk it when safer options exist?
Better Binding Options for Mold Detox
I prefer other binders that don’t carry Sacch B’s risks. We have so many other options for binding. Why use one that may cause problems? Here’s how to detox smarter:
- Safer Binders: Use insoluble fiber (e.g., psyllium husk, flax seeds, bran) for bile binding or non-food-based binders like charcoal for gut toxins.
- Avoid Constipation: No binders if you’re backed up—clear digestion first to ensure toxins exit.
- Inhalation Focus: Since mold toxins are often inhaled in water-damaged buildings, prioritize bile binders over Sacch B’s mycotoxin fermenting binding.
For more on mold grab my book, Break the Mold for comprehensive mold recovery tips.
You’re Ready to Detox Smarter!
https://drcrista.com/break-the-mold/Sacch B might work in animal studies, but for humans detoxing mold, it can stir up carb cravings and worsen symptoms by prolonging Zearalenone’s toxicity. Read my book to learn how to clear toxins without the risks.
You’re ready to break the mold and take back your health! Save this guide for your detox journey, and share it with someone fighting mold.
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Disclaimer This content is health information and not intended as personal medical advice. Viewing will not establish a doctor-patient relationship. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. The information discussed is not intended to replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Reliance on information provided by Dr. Jill Crista, employees, or others appearing at the invitation of Dr. Crista is solely at your own risk.