Many commonly-consumed beverages are poor options for patients on the Marshall ProtocolA curative medical treatment for chronic inflammatory disease. Based on the Marshall Pathogenesis. (MP). For example, processed milks are supplemented with vitamin D and carbonated cola drinks are associated with lower bone density,1) both of which can be counterproductive for MP patients.
Hypovolemia is a diminished volume of circulating blood in the body. Research on hypovolemia-induced obesity and diabetes gives reason to guard against dehydration. 2)
As beverages go, plain water is one of the best drinks for an MP patient, as it lacks many of the substances which can hinder progress.
Cold water with a pinch of sodium bicarbonate (also known as baking soda) is found beneficial by many patients.
MP patients who are looking for a flavored drink to supplement their water intake may find squeezing a bit of lemon or lime juice and pouring over ice makes a satisfying alternative. Some also enjoy iced herbal or green teas (brewed weak) in moderation.
Carbonated sodas, drinks with artificial sweeteners or added vitamins are best avoided. Since extra sugar intake can hinder recovery, some members are using stevia as an alternative sweetener.
Patients on the MP have sometimes reported unusual responses to various specialty bottled spring waters. This mostly appears to be an individual response, but a good number reported a strong increase in symptoms associated with immunopathologyA temporary increase in disease symptoms experienced by Marshall Protocol patients that results from the release of cytokines and endotoxins as disease-causing bacteria are killed. from Volvic water, at least when first introduced.
For those struggling with staying hydrated during a bout of diarrhea, the following solution has been suggested.
Ingredients:
Directions: To just make one cupful divide by 5. Of course, you could make it weaker, with less sugar and salt, but if you make it with much less sugar, it will taste saltier and some might have trouble drinking it.
This website has some other ideas regarding potassium and is geared to children. One doesn't want too much potassium in some cases, particularly when on olmesartanMedication taken regularly by patients on the Marshall Protocol for its ability to activate the Vitamin D Receptor. Also known by the trade name Benicar. , but if one is really depleted by vomiting and diarrhea, and doesn't generally have a problem with an excess of potassium, one could use some of their ideas.
Doctors sometimes tell one to buy Gatorade when having a lot of diarrhea from a gastrointestinal flu, but I don't like the dyes and they may add too much potassium (and require a trip to the store). Some people have to restrict salt due to high blood pressure or other reasons and in this case, they should consult their doctor.
I'm not suggesting these things for general use, just special circumstances, if your doctor approves (to avoid having to go to the hospital for an IV – though sometimes, if one can't keep the fluid down due to vomiting, that may be required).
For general purposes, just drinking enough water should be enough to stay adequately hydrated, as most people get enough salt in their diet.
Joyce Waterhouse, PhD