What to binders do to our gut flora?
Binders are insoluble particles that pass through the gut unabsorbed.
Their purpose is to bind toxins like heavy metals, endotoxins and mycotoxins, and carry them out, as part of a healing process.
Different binders work on different toxins. Their impact on gut flora differs
Bentonite Clay's (montmorillonite) sponge-like quality makes it a good anti-diarrheal and detoxer. But it draws good and bad bacteria out. If your flora is unhealthy, it can be beneficial. But not so if you’re trying to build up good bacteria. It's effective for mycotoxins, not heavy metals.
Zeolite (clinopticile) may promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria and viruses. In trials it tightened the intestinal wall, prevented leaking and had an anti-inflammatory effect. The beneficial bacteria families Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium were not affected by zeolite. It's useful for some heavy metals and mycotoxins.
Charcoal (activated). I couldn’t find evidence of adverse impacts on gut bacteria. It can be anti-inflammatory and protect the microbiome from antibiotics, but must be taken away from medication or it can absorb it. It modulates the immune system and is useful for some mycotoxins.
Saccharomyces Boulardii is also a probiotic with many uses. It's generally safe and benefits the gut microbiome. In people who are severely immune-compromised it can cause fungal infections (fungemia). It can carry out some mycotoxins.
Chlorella is a blue-green algae witha prebiotic function, stimulating the growth of good bacteria and supporting the digestive system. It can cause reactions in some people as it contains iodine. It can bind some heavy metals, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), pesticides, herbicides and some mycotoxins.
Modified citrus pectin is a gut-supportive binder that can remove heavy metals, endotoxins (LPS), and some mycotoxins, while also supporting microbiome balance
In general, it’s not advisable to be on some binders long term because they can deplete the body of minerals or alter gut flora. This depends on the priority. They should be taken 30-60 mins before, and 2 hours after, eating.