|
Klenner
protocol first step for MS control
Presented by Jeffrey L. Prickett, May 2005 Posted here with permission
of the author.
Taken
from: Townsend Letter for
Doctors and Patients, May, 2005 by Jeffrey L. Prickett
Issue:
#262, p.79-81
Editor:
In
this letter I hope to convey the course of my illness and response
over the last year. I make four recommendations that I think reflect
a basic protocol that anyone with the diagnosis of MS can take.
There will be individual differences, of course, as MS is a complicated
syndrome that is not likely to have a single cause. First, by
starting the protocol outlined by Dr. Frederich Klenner one will
likely stop the progression and initiate recovery. Second, appropriate
dietary changes are also needed and alone can have a profound
effect in individual cases. Third, the support and expertise of
a progressive physician who looks for the causes of symptoms rather
than applying a cookbook approach to treating a diagnostic label
(which is the case with MS) is vitally important. Lastly, procuring
the services of an excellent classical homeopath can be invaluable
to correct the underlying state that allowed the causes to take
root, thereby resulting in symptoms. The statements made in this
letter are my opinion only. They are, however, an opinion based
on experience. Here is my story:
I
am a clinical psychologist, licensed acupuncturist and classical
homeopath. I ate well, took good care of my health and used homeopathy
for my personal healthcare. Over the course of many years my homeopaths,
among the best in the world, treated me for a few minor complaints.
I would have never believed that a devastating chronic illness
would come my way. In early 2003 I noticed a slight change in
the vision of my right eye; it was dim and blurred. I suspected
a change in reading glasses would do the trick but my opthalmologist
was concerned. I was evaluated fully by her, a retina specialist
and neuropthalmologist. Nothing was found and I felt otherwise
well. Ten months later, on December 5, 2003, I got out of bed
and noticed my right leg was numb from the buttocks to the foot.
Over the next several days I experienced a low-grade fever, hot
tingling on the chest and extremities along with several other
disturbing symptoms. At that early stage I contacted a naturopath
from Texas, Dr. Steven Hines, who successfully treated my father
for an aggressive prostate cancer at Hope Clinic International,
in Mexico just across the border from Del Rio, Texas (my father
was only given 3-5 years to live by his diagnosing physician but
is now in good health over seven years later!).
Advertisement
During
those early days, I knew enough that my fears of multiple sclerosis
were high. Dr. Hines suggested several tests, most prominent was
heavy metal testing. I was tested several days later by a local
practitioner of alternative medicine, Jack Young, MD, PhD. He
found high levels of mercury following a DMPS urine toxic metals
test. He instituted treatment that seemed to help for short periods
of time but my decline continued during that first month. My energy
dropped and other symptoms worsened. My conventional physician
ordered a MRI of the brain that was normal and I was subsequently
referred to a neurologist. The MRI of the spine and visual evoked
potential that he ordered showed damage and the diagnosis of MS
was given on January 8, 2004. By that time I was so weak and fatigued
that I could barely walk from the bedroom to the kitchen without
the need for rest. My appetite decreased and I was in a state
of despair. On that dark day of the diagnosis, I decided to head
straight to Texas in order to begin treatment. To that end, my
parents started driving their motor home from Florida and, three
days later, my wife Linda and I flew to San Antonio where we were
met by them and continued the journey to Del Rio. During the trip
I was so debilitated that I required a wheelchair in each airport
and vomited twice when I tried to put a small amount of food or
fluid in my stomach. I spent the next six weeks in Del Rio crossing
the border into Mexico to receive treatment and was surprised
to see improvement after only one day. During the first week I
seemed to improve daily.
Dr.
Hines explained that MS is a label placed on a particular set
of symptoms. MS does not cause these symptoms but the diagnosis
is made because of them. Those symptoms have a cause and what
he believed was that my symptoms were caused by mercury toxicity
and the damage mercury does to the digestive, immune, and endocrine
systems. Later, on reviewing a list of various mercury toxicity
symptoms, I came to realize that each and every one of my symptoms
was included on that list (even a transient minor one such as
itching of the scalp). Dr. Hines added that our goal was to remove
the mercury (something that must be done slowly), regulate (not
suppress or stimulate) the immune system, fix the damage done
to the digestive system, repair the adrenal glands and endocrine
system, and allow for the repair of the nerves. Nerves, he said,
can remyelinate. It was later that I realized that the term MS
means to the conventional neurologist that "you have nerve
damage and we don't know why but we can give you immune suppressing
drugs that may or may not slow the disease progress but the situation
is going to get worse no matter what we do." It is no wonder
that this diagnosis comes with such an ominous aura. Personally,
I think that a more appropriate term would be idiopathic demyelination.
It plainly calls it what it is, nerve damage with an unknown cause.
Unknown, that is, unless one finds a progressive physician who
is willing to look for the causes and use effective, not merely
"accepted," treatments. Additionally, I consulted with
a homeopath and initiated treatment with LM potencies. Again,
there was a definite shift for the better in my health once I
started the homeopathic remedy, especially in my emotional state.
When I left Del Rio at the
end of February I was better but far from well. At that time I
would estimate my recovery at 65-70%. I continued to improve once
I returned home, albeit slowly. Still, I believed recovery would
happen. My home program was working but not quickly enough. I
kept looking for answers, fearful that my recovery would reach
a plateau or that I would worsen if the progress stopped. As I
had been familiar with the TLfDP, I decided to search back issues
for other therapies that could be of benefit. I saw several things
of interest but nothing seemed right for me until I read the story
of Dale Humpherys. (1) I decided to call Dale who was willing
to fully answer my questions. He was convinced that Dr. Klenner's
protocol of thiamine and liver extract injections with a high
protein diet and specific oral supplements was right for anyone
with this diagnosis. I kept the information in mind, thinking
that I probably would not need it as I was, after all, progressing.
By
August, I continued to have good days and bad but was generally
functioning at about 85% of my former self. I had been on a rather
strict diet that eliminated all foods to which I tested sensitive.
That eventually led me to incorporate the recommendations made
on the website www.directms.org. I strongly suggest anyone with
this diagnosis consider these recommendations. They are based
on important understandings of various factors (e.g. food sensitivities,
vitamin D and fish oil deficiencies, etc.) of those with these
symptoms and have proven to be highly effective for some. The
developers of this site have provided a real service. On the website
they mention an individual diagnosed with MS in 1953, Roger MacDougall.
Roger used only dietary means as no other treatments were available
at that time. That stopped the progression of his symptoms immediately.
Four years later he began to improve and was symptom-free after
eight years. He doggedly stuck with a plan purely based on his
reasoning and remained symptom--free and well for the remaining
40 years of his life. For more detail you can read his booklet,
My Fight Against Multiple Sclerosis. (2) His approach, the diet
suggested on the website mentioned above, and the diet suggested
by others, including Dr. Klenner, are essentially modified anti-fungal
diets. I wondered, could there be a connection between fungal
infections and MS symptoms? It had been suspected by Dr. Hines
that I might have a Candida or fungal infection but the tests
were negative. I read some information on fungal toxins in a book
by Doug Kaufmann and David Holland, MD, The Fungus Link, volume
2. (3) Research was cited that points to a possible connection
between fungal/yeast infections and neurological symptoms. I decided
to start the diet and natural anti-fungals to see what, if any,
changes would occur.
Along
the way my journey had significant spiritual ramifications that
have enriched my life beyond measure. I had always enjoyed my
spiritual studies and read a variety of books from a variety of
traditions. Even though I had always believed that the great truths
could be found in one's tradition of origin, I had not looked
deeply into my own tradition (Christianity) since my teen years.
It was Linda who first read The Purpose Driven Life (4) by Rick
Warren and recommended it to me during my first month of illness.
It was a source of great comfort, particularly the first chapter.
While attending Hope Clinic, I spent several hours talking with
Marco Rivera, an ordained minister who helped me immensely and
in ways that I don't think he even knows. During this time, Linda
found a local church in Florida with a healing service and ministry.
Since my return from Mexico our church and the healing ministry
have taken on greater and greater importance in my life, and my
spiritual studies now have a direction and depth that were never
before present. The sophisticated skill of one particular "prayer
minister" proved instrumental in helping me heal wounds and
develop a positive outlook regarding my battle. The effect has
been profound. In many ways, my illness has become a blessing.
I have learned much, not just about the nature of disease, but
my psychological/emotional state and spiritual standing.
Later in August, with the specter of an approaching hurricane,
I decided to give myself the best opportunity to be as functional
as possible in case of trouble during the storm. I started Dr.
Klenner's protocol at 200 mg of thiamine daily and instituted
the rest of his recommendations. However, after a few weeks I
felt no appreciable difference from the injections and they were
discontinued, as was the anti-fungal diet. After a third hurricane
visited (three in two months!), I decided to give the injections
another try following an adverse reaction to a dietary indiscretion.
Again, I started at 200 mg of thiamine daily and reinstituted
the Candida diet. I reasoned that if Kaufmann and Holland were
right, that those with MS may have a fungal/Candida infection,
and that many indeed benefit from the Klenner protocol of thiamine
injections, there must be a connection between the two. It was
about two weeks later that I found a possible explanation in a
book by Sherry A. Rogers, MD, No More Heartburn. (5) In it she
stated that certain species of Candida produce an enzyme, thiaminase,
which effectively breaks down thiamine before it can be utilized.
By injecting thiamine in sufficient quantities one can compensate
for thiaminase and, as Dr. Klenner (6) suggested, the cells can
function normally, and the body will recover and repair.
However,
my practitioners believed that the primary cause of my symptoms
was mercury. It seemed reasonable to assume that there must be
a relationship between this heavy metal and thiamine as well.
In short, there appears to be at least three issues involved:
1) mercury oxidizes thiamine to thiochrome (7) thereby negating
its value, 2) the symptoms of thiamine deficiency and mercury
toxicity are very similar (a thiamine deficiency alone can cause
symptoms and, therefore, may potentiate mercury toxicity symptoms),
and 3) thiamine contains a sulphur group and has been found in
at least one clinical study to remove lead, cadmium, nickel, arsenic
and mercury from body tissues. (8) Thus, the mercury-toxic individual
has at least one pathway of detoxification removed as a result
of thiamine being disabled. When thiamine is given is sufficient
quantities, heavy metal detoxification may occur without the patient
knowing it. That said, I believe that medical assistance for mercury
detoxification is necessary and thiamine injections alone may
not suffice. Still, Dr. Klenner "categorically" stated
that with his protocol MS can be "CURED." Part of the
reason may be that this protocol negates some of the adverse effects
of mycotoxins and mercury.
After
a week with no observable results on 200 mg of thiamine, I contacted
Dale and asked how long I should stay at this level. He told me
that I would likely need more and suggested I increase to 400
mg of thiamine daily. I noticed a difference after only one injection.
I have now been on the higher amount for three months and my energy
has improved significantly. Also, many symptoms have reduced and
my functioning is now in the 90-95% range. I continue to remove
mercury using DMSA and NDF from BioRay, Inc. Levels are greater
than 75% reduced as measured in August and compared with an April
test. Moreover, adrenal and hormone levels have improved dramatically
since August. Digestion has improved and neurological symptoms
are nearly gone. I returned to the practice of homeopathy early
this year (I worked part-time since March 2004 as a consulting
psychologist).
In
this last year I have experienced incredible love and support
from friends and family, especially my beloved wife Linda. I am
also blessed to have several dedicated practitioners who seek
to understand their patients deeply, look for the causes of their
symptoms and provide effective treatments as opposed to "party-line"
or cookbook medical care. In that regard, Dr. Hines has gone above
and beyond in his efforts to assist me. I am, and will always
be, grateful.
In
retrospect, it now seems apparent that my symptoms are, as Drs.
Hines and Young believe, primarily the result of mercury toxicity.
There were two apparent sources; diet and, more critically, the
improper removal of multiple dental amalgam fillings several years
earlier. Mercury caused damage to multiple systems and resulted
in adrenal dysfunction. It also affected my immune and digestive
systems and possibly allowed for a systemic fungal infection to
occur. Secondary to these problems is an inability to utilize
B-vitamins, especially thiamine. By addressing all issues simultaneously,
the process of healing is taking place at a reassuring rate.
As
for recommendations for those with the diagnosis of MS, I have
four: 1) start on the Klenner protocol as soon as possible, 2)
follow Dr. Klenner's diet suggestions and consider initiating
an anti-fungal diet or incorporate the recommendations at www.directms.org,
3) find an alternative/natural physician or one who specializes
in environmental medicine who can help uncover and treat causes
or contributors to MS symptoms (e.g. mercury toxicity, Lyme Disease,
Candida/fungal infection, Vitamin D deficiency, etc.) and 4) obtain
the services of an excellent classical homeopath. Additionally,
one should consider the spiritual and psychological aspects of
their illness. It may prove life enriching.
Whether
you are a practitioner or patient, there is hope and help if you
look and work hard enough. Yes, there are sacrifices, especially
in terms of dietary restrictions (at least for awhile) but the
rewards in the return to health are well worth it. You may not
believe me, as I am early in my recovery, but you can believe
Dale Humpherys who has lived in a fully recovered state for almost
30 years. We owe him our gratitude for making Dr. Klenner's work
known.
Finally,
I would be very interested in communicating with others who have
been treated with a high degree of success (meaning symptom-free
or almost symptom-free for many years without relapse) using these
or other treatment methods. I would also be happy to provide further
information to those who wish it.
References
1.
Humpherys, D: Multiple Sclerosis Treated with Injectable Vitamin
B1 and Liver Extract. Townsend Letter for Doctors & Patients.
February/March 2000: 199/200: 58-60.
2.
MacDougall, R: My Fight Against Multiple Sclerosis.
3.
Kaufmann, D: The Fungus Link, volume 2, MediaTrition, 2003.
4.
Warren, R: The Purpose Driven Life, Zondervan, 2002.
5.
Rogers, S: No More Heartburn, Kensington Books, 2000
6.
Klenner, F: Response of Peripheral and Central Nervous System Pathology
to Mega-Doses of the Vitamin B complex and other Metabolites, Townsend
Letter for Doctors & Patients, June/July 2000: 203/204.
7.
Krohn, J, et al: The Whole Way to Natural Detoxification, Hartley
& Marks, 1996.
8.
Lonsdale, D, et al: Treatment of autism spectrum children with thiamine
tetrahydrofurfuryl disulfide: A pilot study. Neuroendocrinology
Letters 2002; 23:303-308.
Jeffrey
L. Prickett, PsyD, AP
P.O.
Box 696
Winter
Park, Florida 32790 USA
jprickett@cfl.rr.com |
