I have done some research on GcMAF after my Doctor introduced me to it recently. I have a few questions, and would truly appreciate any thoughts, that anyone who has some experience with GcMAF, could offer.
Forgive me if my questions may have been answered some place else on the forum - I struggle to read all of the relevant posts due to brain fog.
I have had CFS for two years now after catching a nasty virus. I would consider my case quite severe since I struggle to walk for longer than two minutes. I alsohave some arthritic symptoms that are sometimes associated with bad cases of CFS.
Effectiveness
1. How much benefit have you got from GcMAF (Sushi, GcMAF Australia - anyone else who's tried it)? Do you know of anyone who has recovered - or near recovered - by taking it
2. Are there any convincing clinical trials to support GcMAF's benefit in CFS?
I was quite disappointed in the
website that my doctor referred me to. It claims "complete eradication in 90% of cases [of ME / CFS]". It then goes to complain about a low response rate, and eight out of 15 people recovering (which does not equal 90% eradication)! The webpage is also badly written and has a 'miracle cure' vibe about it
Risks
3. I get bad inflammation and stiffness, particularly in my hand and feet joints (e.g. fingers, knuckles, toes, wrist). I have not been diagnosed with any form of arthritis. However, my C3 and C4 complements are below the normal range (possible sign of Lupus) and my Ferritin (often considered an inflammatory marker) is elevated.
Would treatment with GcMAF pose a material risk in my case? From the above posts it seems to cause more inflammation, so maybe GcMAF is contraindicated if you have pre-existing inflammation? Also, I understand the treatment boosts immune response - this seems dangerous for someone who's immune system may be attacking their own body!
4. Is this one of those die-off / 'you have to feel worse to feel better' treatments? How do you know when to perservere with treatment, or when GcMAF is actually making you worse?
Practical
5. How much do you pay for one year of treatment (it seems expensive)?
6. I hear GcMAF can be damaged by heat. Can you generally rely on the courier to ship it correctly? There would be nothing worse than paying ~$1,000 for a 2.5ml bottle of a damaged product (apart from not having any way of knowing if it's damaged and therefore completely ineffective)! I live in New Zealand, which is a long way to ship it!
Many thanks for your time and any thoughts you can offer