CIRS and Gut Health

Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) is a complex and often misunderstood condition that arises from prolonged exposure to biotoxins such as mold, Lyme disease, and other environmental toxins. One of the critical aspects of CIRS is its profound impact on gut health, an area that is gaining increasing attention from both researchers and healthcare practitioners.

 

The biotoxin pathway, a cascade of inflammatory responses triggered by these toxins, plays a pivotal role in disrupting the delicate balance of the gut microbiome. This disruption is further compounded by low levels of Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone (MSH), a crucial regulator of immune function, inflammation, and gut permeability.

 

In this article, we will explore the intricate relationship between CIRS and gut health, focusing on how the biotoxin pathway affects the gut and the implications of reduced MSH levels. Let’s take a closer look into the various gut co-infections and conditions frequently observed in CIRS patients, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of this syndrome and the importance of addressing gut health in the management of CIRS.

 

What Is CIRS?

 

 

 

Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) is a multifaceted condition characterized by a range of symptoms affecting multiple systems in the body. This syndrome is driven by extensive inflammation resulting from an overly reactive immune system. Acknowledged as a legitimate medical condition, diagnosing CIRS requires thorough lab testing and an in-depth examination of the patient’s medical history.

 

The diverse symptoms of CIRS can lead to frequent misdiagnosis or inadequate treatment. Unlike other immune disorders that exhibit abnormal adaptive immune responses, CIRS cannot be detected through typical autoimmune blood tests.

 

 

What exactly triggers this heightened immune response and the accompanying widespread inflammation? The answer lies in biotoxins—biologically derived toxic substances. These biotoxins, which can both initiate and exacerbate CIRS, come from various sources, including:

 

• Water-Damaged Environments: Around 80% of CIRS cases are linked to exposure to air in water-damaged settings. These environments harbor mold mycotoxins, bacteria, and other chemical irritants, which can provoke inflammatory reactions in susceptible individuals. Both living and non-living mold components significantly contribute to inflammation in the body and brain.

 

• Insect Bites: Certain insect bites, such as those from ticks and spiders, can lead to long-term conditions like chronic Lyme disease. Pathogens such as Borrelia burgdorferi and Babesia microti are commonly involved, and venom from recluse spider bites can cause prolonged health issues.

 

• Seafood Consumption: Eating tropical reef fish contaminated with ciguatera toxin, often linked to Pfiesteria and harmful algae blooms like cyanobacteria (blue-green algae), can trigger biotoxin-related illnesses. This toxin accumulates in larger reef fish that eat smaller fish, which have ingested dinoflagellates.

 

• Contact with Contaminated Water: Exposure to or inhalation of water contaminated with toxic algae blooms, including Pfiesteria and cyanobacteria, can also trigger the inflammatory responses characteristic of CIRS.

 

• Other Biotoxin Sources: Additional triggers for CIRS include exposure to certain vaccines, viruses, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), endotoxins, and actinomycetes. These elements can all contribute to the development of the syndrome.

 

 

Biotoxins are minuscule molecules capable of penetrating cell membranes, making them nearly undetectable in standard blood tests. These toxins typically enter the body through inhalation but can also be introduced via ingestion, tick and spider bites, and direct contact with contaminated water.

 

Not everyone exposed to common biotoxins, such as mold, will develop CIRS. Genetic factors and life stressors play a significant role in determining susceptibility to biotoxin-related conditions. Events such as severe illnesses, surgeries, high fevers, pregnancies, substantial biotoxin exposure, and other traumatic incidents can induce a cytokine storm. This may activate the CIRS gene in genetically susceptible individuals, particularly those with HLA-DR genes, indicating that CIRS can manifest at any stage of life. It’s important to understand that a lack of symptoms does not equate to immunity, and genetic testing can offer valuable insights for prevention.

 

While biotoxins might cause immediate illness, most people’s immune systems can identify and eliminate these toxins effectively. However, individuals genetically predisposed to CIRS have immune systems that fail to recognize and clear these toxins, allowing them to persist in the body. This results in a chronic, severe immune reaction and extensive inflammation, leading to a variety of symptoms and long-term health issues.

 

For a more detailed understanding of CIRS, click here.

 

Pro-Tip: If you think you’re suffering from CIRS, start with our White Glove Service for comprehensive care.

 

How Does CIRS Impact Gut Health?

 

 

CIRS impacts gut health through various mechanisms, making it essential to support all facets for comprehensive gut healing and successful treatment.

 

Leptin Resistance

Due to the effects of the biotoxin pathway, leptin resistance occurs from the disruption of receptors from excessive, chronic cytokine. This causes the dysregulation of melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) and often leads to stubborn weight gain. The body tries to make more MSH through the leptin receptor but can’t because of the presence of cytokines. Therefore, more leptin is released.

 

Low MSH and Leaky Gut

 

 

Low levels of MSH significantly impact digestive health. MSH is crucial for maintaining the integrity of gut junctions, which are essential in preserving the barrier function of the gastrointestinal lining. When MSH levels are low, these gut junctions weaken, leading to increased intestinal permeability, commonly known as leaky gut.

 

This compromised barrier allows undigested food particles, toxins, and pathogens to enter the bloodstream, triggering systemic inflammation and immune responses. Consequently, leaky gut can promote the overgrowth of bacteria and fungi in the small intestine, leading to high rates of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and small intestinal fungal overgrowth (SIFO).

 

These conditions further exacerbate digestive issues, causing symptoms such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and malabsorption, perpetuating the cycle of gut dysfunction and inflammation in individuals with CIRS.

 

Excess Cortisol and Gut Function

 

 

Excess cortisol production due to CIRS also significantly impacts gut function and overall endocrine health. Cortisol, a stress hormone produced by the adrenal glands, is elevated in response to chronic inflammation and biotoxin exposure characteristic of CIRS. This elevation initiates a harmful endocrine cascade that disrupts multiple body systems.

 

The excess cortisol directly affects gut function by compromising the integrity of the gut lining. High cortisol levels can lead to increased intestinal permeability, often referred to as leaky gut. This condition allows toxins, pathogens, and undigested food particles to pass through the gut lining into the bloodstream, triggering systemic inflammation and immune responses. Additionally, elevated cortisol can reduce digestive enzyme production and alter gut motility, leading to symptoms such as bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.

 

The Connection Between Gut Health and Inflammation

 

 

Our immune system evolved to deal with short-term threats such as injuries and infections. It isn’t meant to deal with a never-ending barrage of threats that we now subject the immune system to every day—chronic stress, ultra-processed foods, and environmental toxins.

 

Localized or systemic inflammation can be acute and last just a few days. The body relies on this critical immune function to protect and heal. Chronic inflammation occurs when the cause of it is continual, lasting months or years. It often occurs when acute inflammation doesn’t resolve the situation or an autoimmune condition sets in. 

 

Not only does chronic systemic inflammation impact gut health, but poor gut function also contributes to a stronger inflammatory response dependent on a person’s dietary and lifestyle choices.

 

Dorsal Vagal System Dysregulation

 

 

CIRS in addition to various toxins and stress profoundly impacts the dorsal vagal system, a critical component of the body’s response to stress and trauma. The dorsal vagal system, part of the parasympathetic nervous system, controls the “freeze” response, a state where the body shuts down to protect itself from perceived threats. This system also plays a role in the “fight or flight” response, managed by the sympathetic nervous system. Both responses divert the body’s focus away from non-essential functions, including digestion and healing, to prioritize survival.

 

When the dorsal vagal system is activated by chronic stress, toxins, or biotoxin exposure characteristic of CIRS, it can trigger a freeze response. In this state, the body enters a low-energy mode, slowing down metabolic processes, including digestive function. This shutdown can lead to various digestive issues such as reduced motility, decreased enzyme production, and altered gut microbiota balance, all of which impair digestion and nutrient absorption.

 

Similarly, activation of the fight or flight response also negatively impacts digestion. When the body perceives a threat, cortisol and adrenaline levels rise, redirecting blood flow away from the digestive system to the muscles and brain, preparing for rapid action. This response reduces digestive efficiency and can lead to symptoms such as bloating, constipation, or diarrhea, as well as exacerbating conditions such as leaky gut and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).

 

To counteract these effects, it is essential to engage the ventral vagal system, another part of the parasympathetic nervous system responsible for the “rest and digest” state. This system promotes relaxation, social engagement, and a sense of safety, facilitating proper digestive function and overall healing. Achieving this state requires practices that promote relaxation and social connection.

 

Treating Leptin Resistance

 

 

Treating leptin resistance caused by CIRS requires a comprehensive and tailored approach. A low-amylose diet is crucial for addressing leptin resistance during CIRS treatment. Amylose is a type of carbohydrate found in many starchy foods, and reducing its intake can help stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation. The carnivore diet, which eliminates all plant-based foods and focuses on animal products, is highly effective in this regard. This diet supports leptin sensitivity by minimizing inflammatory foods and providing nutrient-dense meals.

 

A therapeutic ketogenic carnivore diet, emphasizing higher fat intake, can further enhance therapeutic ketosis. This metabolic state helps in reducing insulin levels and improving leptin signaling. Incorporating high doses of omega-3 fatty acids can help lower MMP-9 cytokines, which are associated with inflammation and leptin resistance.

 

Addressing TGF-Beta 1 levels is also essential, as this marker is involved in the release of excess leptin. Natural supports such as curcumin, resveratrol, and a healthy, low-inflammatory diet can help reduce TGF-Beta 1 levels. These interventions are part of the Shoemaker Protocol, a comprehensive treatment plan for CIRS.

 

In addition to dietary changes, other supports for leptin resistance include regular exercise, quality sleep, and zinc supplementation. Exercise helps improve insulin sensitivity and supports overall metabolic health. Quality sleep is vital for hormonal balance, including leptin and ghrelin levels. Zinc supplementation can further support immune function and leptin signaling.

 

Addressing Low MSH and Leaky Gut

 

 

The Shoemaker Protocol is a comprehensive treatment plan designed to address the root causes of CIRS. One critical aspect of the protocol involves addressing low levels of MSH. In the final step, the protocol utilizes Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) intranasal spray to raise MSH levels.

 

MSH plays a vital role in maintaining gut integrity by regulating the tight junctions between cells in the gut lining. Low MSH levels, common in individuals with CIRS, can lead to increased intestinal permeability, known as leaky gut. By raising MSH levels with VIP, the Shoemaker Protocol aims to restore these tight junctions, thereby reducing gut permeability and mitigating leaky gut.

 

However, addressing leaky gut comprehensively requires more than just raising MSH levels. A holistic approach includes dietary changes and a personalized leaky gut healing protocol. The carnivore diet, which emphasizes animal-based foods and eliminates plant-based irritants, can be particularly effective. This diet minimizes exposure to common gut irritants and provides nutrient-dense, easily digestible foods that support gut healing.

 

In addition to the carnivore diet, a leaky gut healing protocol should include specific supplements and practices to repair the gut lining and reduce inflammation. These might include collagen, bone broth, and other gut-healing nutrients. However, many of these supports contain ingredients that may not be well tolerated by individuals with histamine intolerance or mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), a common issue in those with CIRS.

 

Histamine intolerance can cause a range of symptoms, including headaches, digestive issues, and skin reactions, making it challenging to follow a standard leaky gut protocol. Therefore, it is crucial to address the root cause of histamine intolerance first. While using temporary supports such as a low-histamine diet, antihistamine medications, natural herbals, and avoiding foods and substances that trigger histamine release is essential while healing, these don’t target the root cause.

 

For many, CIRS is the root cause of their histamine issues so a leaky gut protocol can be implemented once this has been resolved at a certain point in the Protocol.  Once histamine intolerance is managed, individuals can more effectively implement a leaky gut healing protocol alongside the Shoemaker Protocol.

 

Reducing Inflammation for Gut Health and Overall Wellness

 

 

Poor gut function significantly contributes to a heightened inflammatory response, a situation heavily influenced by an individual’s dietary and lifestyle choices. The gut, often referred to as the body’s second brain, plays a crucial role in regulating immune function and inflammation. When gut health is compromised, it can lead to a cascade of inflammatory reactions that exacerbate chronic health conditions.

 

One effective way to mitigate inflammation through diet is by adopting a carnivore diet, which is a type of ketogenic diet. This diet has been shown to reduce inflammation by emphasizing healthy fats and restricting sugars. Healthy fats, such as those found in animal products, provide essential fatty acids that support cell membrane integrity and anti-inflammatory pathways. Reducing sugar intake helps lower insulin levels and decrease the production of inflammatory cytokines.

 

 

Eliminating plant foods, which are often sources of anti-nutrients, is another key aspect of the carnivore diet. Plant anti-nutrients, such as lectins, phytic acid, and oxalates, can contribute to inflammation and digestive distress. Lectins, found in many legumes and grains, can bind to the gut lining and disrupt its integrity, leading to leaky gut and subsequent inflammation. Phytic acid, present in seeds, nuts, and grains, can impair mineral absorption and contribute to nutrient deficiencies, further aggravating inflammatory conditions. Oxalates, found in leafy greens and certain vegetables, can form crystals in tissues, causing pain and inflammation, particularly in susceptible individuals.

 

Gluten, a protein found in wheat and other grains, is another significant contributor to digestive and inflammatory issues. It is one of the most challenging plant proteins to digest, and many people experience digestive distress and systemic inflammation as a result of gluten consumption. Even those without celiac disease often find that eliminating gluten from their diet leads to improved digestive health and reduced inflammation.

 

While the Shoemaker Protocol does not universally recommend ketogenic or carnivore diets for everyone, there is growing interest and ongoing research in this area. We recognize the many benefits of these dietary approaches for reducing inflammation and improving overall health. We are currently working on comprehensive research to better understand the nuances of these diets and their impact on conditions such as CIRS.

 

Stay tuned for an upcoming article that will dig deeper into this topic, offering a detailed analysis of how ketogenic and carnivore diets can be integrated into broader treatment protocols to enhance health outcomes and manage inflammation effectively.

 

Supporting the Gut Through Mind-Body Work

 

 

Another critical component of healing in CIRS is the comprehensive mind-body work, particularly focusing on limbic retraining. This approach supports overall wellness and gut healing by promoting the rest and digest state, essential for the body’s healing processes.

 

The Role of Limbic Retraining

The limbic system, a set of brain structures including the hippocampus and amygdala, plays a crucial role in emotional regulation, stress response, and autonomic nervous system control. In individuals with CIRS, the limbic system can become hyperactive due to chronic stress and inflammation, perpetuating a state of fight-or-flight. This continuous activation disrupts normal bodily functions, including digestion and immune response.

 

The benefits of limbic retraining include:

 

• Reducing Chronic Stress: Limbic retraining techniques such as neuroplasticity exercises, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral therapy help to reset the brain’s response to stress. By reducing the hyperactivity of the limbic system, these practices shift the body from a fight-or-flight state to a rest-and-digest state.
• Enhancing Neuroplasticity: Neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize itself, is enhanced through limbic retraining. This process helps to form new neural connections that promote a more balanced and less reactive stress response.
• Promoting Emotional Resilience: Techniques such as meditation, breathing exercises, and positive visualization can help improve emotional resilience, reducing the overall burden of stress and anxiety, which can aggravate CIRS symptoms.

 

Rest and Digest State and Its Importance

The parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) is responsible for the rest and digest state, which is crucial for healing and maintaining gut health. When the body is in a parasympathetic state, several beneficial processes occur:

 

• Improved Digestion: The rest and digest state enhances digestive functions by increasing blood flow to the stomach and intestines, promoting the secretion of digestive enzymes, and improving nutrient absorption. This is essential for individuals with CIRS, who often have compromised gut health.
• Enhanced Immune Function: A calm, balanced nervous system helps modulate the immune response, reducing chronic inflammation and supporting the body’s ability to fight infections and heal tissues.
• Better Medication and Supplement Tolerance: When the body is in a parasympathetic state, it is better able to process and tolerate medications and supplements. This is particularly important for those following the Shoemaker Protocol, as the effectiveness of treatments can be compromised by a stressed, inflamed body.

 

For individuals with CIRS, maintaining gut health is critical. The gut-brain connection plays a significant role in how well the body can heal and respond to treatments.

 

• Reducing Gut Inflammation: Chronic stress and an overactive limbic system can lead to increased gut permeability (leaky gut), which exacerbates inflammation. Limbic retraining helps to reduce this stress, thereby lowering gut inflammation and improving gut barrier function.
• Balancing Gut Microbiota: A balanced nervous system supports a healthy gut microbiome. Techniques such as mindfulness and dietary adjustments can help maintain the balance of beneficial bacteria, which are crucial for gut health and overall immunity.
• Optimizing Nutrient Absorption: The rest and digest state improves nutrient absorption by enhancing digestive enzyme activity and increasing blood flow to the digestive organs. This ensures that the body receives the necessary nutrients to support healing and immune function.

 

Pro-Tip: If you’re looking for comprehensive mind-body support while you undergo CIRS treatment, we’ve developed an exclusive Mind Body Program specifically for our chronically ill community.

 

Addressing Gut Co-Infections With CIRS

CIRS affects multiple systems in the body, including the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The immune dysregulation and chronic inflammation characteristic of CIRS create an environment conducive to gut imbalances, leading to conditions such as SIBO and SIFO.

 

Treating gut co-infections in the context of CIRS requires precise timing within the Shoemaker Protocol. This is because the protocol, designed to address the root causes of CIRS, involves multiple stages aimed at reducing biotoxin exposure, modulating the immune response, and correcting underlying dysfunctions.

 

The right time to address gut co-infections (and any other co-infection) varies for each individual. Factors such as the severity of the co-infections, the stage of the Shoemaker Protocol they are in, and their overall health status must be considered. It is essential to work closely with a trusted CIRS practitioner to determine the optimal time for treating these gut co-infections. A practitioner experienced in managing CIRS can tailor the treatment plan to ensure that addressing co-infections does not interfere with the broader objectives of the protocol.

 

While the Shoemaker Protocol focuses on eliminating biotoxins and restoring immune function, treating gut co-infections remains necessary for comprehensive healing.

 

Closing Thoughts On CIRS and Gut Health

In managing CIRS, addressing gut health is foundational to treatment success. CIRS often disrupts the GI system, leading to gut co-infections such as SIBO and SIFO. Effective treatment requires careful timing within the Shoemaker Protocol, as treating these gut co-infections is crucial for comprehensive healing.

 

In our clinical practice, we have observed that some patients and clients need a personalized gut healing protocol before they can tolerate prescription binders, the second step of the Shoemaker Protocol. This preliminary step is essential to stabilize gut health and ensure the body can effectively process and benefit from the subsequent treatments.

 

Collaboration with a trusted CIRS practitioner is vital to customize the treatment plan, considering factors such as the severity of co-infections and the stage of the Shoemaker Protocol. Supportive therapies, including dietary modifications, probiotics, and gut-healing supplements, play a critical role in restoring gut flora balance and strengthening the intestinal barrier.

 

By addressing these various factors, we can improve treatment outcomes, enhance overall wellness, and prevent the recurrence of gut issues. Gut health isn’t just a small component of CIRS treatment. It is the foundation upon which successful recovery is built, ensuring that patients achieve optimal health and well-being.

 

 

Pro-Tip: Are you looking for practitioner resources and a like-minded community to support you through your CIRS journey? Join our exclusive CIRS Support Group for the latest research, step-by-step protocol tools, and support to successfully achieve root-cause healing.

 

Work With Our Trusted CIRS Functional Medicine Practitioners

Our Empower Functional Health practice is honored to be trusted CIRS functional practitioners, supporting patients and clients from around the globe. We’re passionate about helping individuals achieve root-cause healing in order to live the life they are meant to, nearly symptom-free. We provide environmental illness thought leadership and evidence-based insights, paired with clinical pearls, to help you achieve your wellness goals. We welcome you to explore our free resources, and if you find that self-troubleshooting falls short, we’re here to guide you with personalized support and protocols. If you believe you’re suffering from CIRS, our CIRS Testing + Session is the best place to start.