Foundation & Herx Support
Gut, detox, sleep and liver support to use alongside any protocol
- Targets
- Lyme, Bartonella, Babesia, Other co-infections
- Intensity
- Gentle
- Components
- 6
- Prescription
- Not required
The support layer that LLMDs and the r/Lyme community consider essential: protect the gut during antibiotics, bind die-off toxins, support the liver, and prioritize sleep and diet. Dr. Ross says antibiotics alone are unlikely to get you well.
The regimen
Duration: Throughout treatment
Key points
- Take S. boulardii during any antibiotic course — antibiotics can't kill it
- Separate bacterial probiotics from antibiotics by at least 2 hours
- Use binders 2 hours away from medicines to soak up die-off toxins
- Get liver function tests regularly (about monthly) on multi-antibiotic regimens
- Eat a whole-food, anti-inflammatory (e.g. Mediterranean) diet; limit sugar and alcohol
Managing a Herxheimer reaction
When treatment kills bacteria, the debris can trigger a temporary flare of symptoms known as a Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction, or "herx". It usually begins within days of starting or changing treatment. A herx should be manageable — if it becomes disabling, pause or lower the dose until it settles, then resume. Binders, hydration, rest and liver support all help.
A herx is different from a drug side effect. Rashes, hives or trouble breathing may be an allergy and need prompt medical attention.
Doxycycline tips
Take doxycycline with food to avoid nausea, but keep dairy, calcium, iron and magnesium at least 2 hours away because they reduce absorption.
More
Dr. Ross's Lyme Support Protocol lays out the full set of steps he considers essential, and his Herxheimer guide covers die-off in depth.
Discussion
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Not medical advice. This protocol is summarized from Dr. Marty Ross, MD & the r/Lyme community FAQ for educational purposes. Doses are for adults; children need different dosing. Discuss any treatment with a qualified, Lyme-literate clinician, who can monitor labs and adjust for your health and medications.