My child is allergic to fish, is there an alternative for the omega 3?

Fish contain many different molecules other than omega-3 fatty acids that can cause allergies. Remember, our own cells are made up from the identical omega-3 fatty acids found in fish. Using highly purified fish oils such as Nordic Naturals will often allow those who are sensitive to fish tolerate the omega-3 supplementation. Alternatively, using an algae-based omega-3 supplement would avoid the fish reaction.

My sons has chronic diarrhea and he’s been on inulin for 3 months. HIs diarrhea is improved from 5 times a day, to now 1 or 2 times a day but it’s still loose. Why is this?

Sometimes the amount of fish oil or olive oil in the protocol can contribute to loose stool. I recommend my patients stop the oils for a week or so to see if the remaining diarrhea resolves. If so, I restart the oils but split the dosing into 2 portions. If the diarrhea does not stop, then I recommend discussing the situation with the child’s pediatrician.

How long after starting rifaximin should I see my son’s diarrhea clear up?

Pre-existing diarrhea often improves within a few days to weeks after starting inulin or rifaximin. nIf diarrhea does not improve, I suggest having your child evaluated by a pediatrician.

I am still experiencing diarrhea after using Rifaximin. What do you recommend?

Chronic diarrhea that does not greatly improve or resolve with rifaximin needs to be evaluated by your physician.

My child has been on the protocol for a while with great gains but diarrhea has not improved. Does that mean that SIBO is not resolved?

If the diarrhea started with the protocol, it may be from the fish and olive oils. Try splitting up the oils so he gets it in smaller doses throughout the day. If the diarrhea was present before starting the protocol and it does not improve with either inulin or rifaximin and you are seeing gains, I suggest having your child evaluated by a pediatrician.

What if the child is having painful cramping or blood or mucous in stool?

If the child is experiencing abdominal cramping or blood or mucous in stool, I recommend the parents stop the use of any probiotics, digestive enzymes, or supplements. If these additional supplements are not being used, I recommend stopping the inulin and oils for a week and then try restarting if the symptoms stop. If the symptoms still do not stop or are also accompanied with blood, I recommend evaluation by a pediatrician.

Can the lack of digestive enzymes trigger bacterial overgrowth of the small intestine (SIBO)?

There is no evidence to suggest low digestive enzymes could trigger SIBO.

What is the proper dose for a 10-year-old child?

The doses I use for children of all ages are listed in the dosing charts that can be found in the left menu.

Does it matter what time of the day I give the protocol supplements? Does giving it earlier in the day or later at night have an impact on anything?

The best way to administer this protocol daily is the one that suits you best and makes your life most manageable. You can give all the supplements together simultaneously or provide them at different times of the day. You can split them up into two smaller doses or give them a full dose once a day. You can administer it at night or in the morning. Consistency is key to success, and working this into your routine and making it a habit is the best way to ensure that you will adhere to it long term. Giving some aspects of the protocol in the morning vs. in the evening does not make any discernible difference so stick to what works for your family.

Is there a chart for dosage according to age for easy referencing for getting started or when child grows older?

Yes. The dosing chart is available in the left sidebar.