I like the Teitelbaum books, however there are so many treatment modalities mentioned that I personally use them as a reference rather than as a "do it all" sort of guide.
IMO there is a lot still unknown about Fibro/CFS, but the one likely upshot of research currently under way is that some day it will be understood that there can be a number of different CAUSES for the symptom set known as Fibro/CFS.
Conventional meds relieve symptoms but don't address causes. Alternative treatments more often address causes, but since there can be a variety of causes for the pain & fatigue, individual responses to supplements can vary.
I attended a lecture by Teitelbaum & am convinced that the FFC clinics he directs are more likely to be helpful for a fibro sufferer than an average GP or rheumy. But comments out there say that some of the centers have more satisfied customers than others. And there are a few exceptional GPs & rheumies out there who could be more helpful for a given individual than FFC. Also, some folks who do quite well with antidepressants & pain killers -- traditional meds.
I do know that the FFC approach uses a lot of diagnostics & is quite spendy compared to a GP visit. Insurance coverage can be an issue, and cost can be a barrier to full FFC participation.
I've found a considerable amount of helpful advice in the FFTF book, as well as in the newer one, Pain Free 1 - 2 - 3. But again, I pick & choose, trying one thing at a time.
Thanks for the detailed reply, elmhar. Sounds like you have a good approach: trying one thing at a time, and not putting all faith in Teitelbaum. I found a local GP who was trained by Teitelbaum (or perhaps I shouldn't say "trained", but attended a level 1 seminar by him) and she says that she considers candida treatment and hormone balancing, so I think it's a good thing to try.
