Candidiasis, an overgrowth of the yeast Candida Albicans, is quite a controversial topic these days. On one hand, there are some doctors and a whole bunch of alternative doctors who blame Candida for everything from migraines to cancer. On the other hand, the medical establishment generally refuses to acknowledge the seriousness of this condition, mainly because its symptoms closely resemble those of other conditions. As with most controversies, the truth probably lies somewhere between the two extreme views. My own experience has convinced me that, to varying degrees, Candida is a problem for large numbers of Americans. If you’re wondering if this is a problem for you, read on.

Symptoms of Candida Overgrowth

In general, symptoms will include two or more of the following: fatigue, depression, mental confusion, insomnia, bloating, gas, intestinal cramps, chronic diarrhea or constipation, sensitivity to chemicals, perfumes or other odors, loss of sexual desire, allergies and food sensitivities. And that’s just for starters. If she’s a woman, she may also experience recurrent yeast infections, bladder infections, and painful periods or PMS. A man may suffer from persistent jock itch, athlete’s foot, other fungal infections, or prostitis. Symptoms in children can include recurring colds, sore throats, ear infections, and digestive problems such as gas, constipation, or diarrhea.

The most common sign of Candida is a craving for sugar and starches like bread and pasta (which are quickly converted to sugar in the body). This is because Candida uses sugar as its main fuel. Think about how many people you know who crave sweets and/or bread and you will have an idea of ​​the magnitude of this problem.

While Candida may not be responsible for every disease that plagues mankind, leaving it unattended for years can lead to a variety of chronic health problems. Candida produces a potent toxin called canditoxin that suppresses the immune system at the cellular level.

Once in the blood, Candida can cause symptoms such as migraine headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease, eczema, hyperactivity, weight gain, chemical and inhalant allergies, and rheumatoid arthritis. Candida “short circuits” the body’s defenses at their deepest levels. That’s why attempts to rid the body of any of the symptoms of candida without addressing the candida itself are often futile, and why allopathic practitioners have a relatively poor record of treating many of these conditions.

Why has Candidiasis become almost an epidemic in America?

Extensive use of broad-spectrum antibiotics destroys much of the “good” bacteria in our gut that would otherwise keep candida in place. Many women know that taking antibiotics for a bladder infection almost guarantees a yeast infection.

Birth control pills and estrogen replacement therapy are also thought to increase the risk of yeast infection in women. Yeast, a natural inhabitant of the vagina, thrives in the presence of the estrogen in these drugs. According to Candida expert Leon Chaitow, ND, 35% of women who use birth control pills have associated cases of acute vaginal yeast infection.

There is no doubt that the main culprit responsible for opening the door to candida overgrowth is a poor diet, high in sugar and white flour. According to Newsweek magazine, In Sugar We Trust (July 13, 1998), the average American now consumes 150 lbs. of sugar per year, up to 28 lbs. since 1970. And we are paying the price. Our body’s digestive and elimination systems have become sluggish under the stress of our inadequate, sugar-laden diet. When sugary foods stay in our intestines for two to three days (the average transit time for Americans), we become a true smorgasbord for all sorts of opportunistic organisms, including Candida Albicans.

get rid of candida

To win the battle against Candida you must avoid sugar. This is more challenging than you think. Sugar goes by many names and has a way of sneaking into our diets in many guises. Make sure nothing you eat contains sucrose, dextrose, fructose, maltose, lactose, glycogen, glucose, mannitol, sorbitol, galactose, maple syrup, maple sugar, molasses, brown sugar, raw sugar, date sugar, turbinado sugar, nutra-dulce (contains lactose), aspartame, corn syrup, honey and fruit juice. All of them are sugar and fuel for the yeast. If your cravings for something sweet are strong, try Stevia, a sweet herb that is safe to use in this program.

You will want to avoid all refined white flour products. This includes most pastas, breads, and other baked goods, which also contain yeast, another no-no. My clients have had very good results when they eliminate wheat completely.

It is also important to stay away from alcohol and fruits, again, due to their high sugar content. All dairy products are out. Also remove mushrooms, sprouts, and most nuts (with the exception of almonds), due to possible mold contamination. All vinegars except raw apple cider vinegar and other fermented foods are prohibited.

At this point, you are probably wondering what you can eat.

One of the most important foods is protein. Because it forms acid, protein helps create a hostile environment for alkali-dependent yeast. During the first month or two of a Candida program, eat plenty of naturally raised chicken, turkey, fish, and eggs, without hormones or antibiotics. All kinds of fresh vegetables are also excellent, especially sea vegetables, due to their high mineral content.

Quinoa and buckwheat are made into pasta or noodles. Millet and amaranth can be substituted for rice which, due to its high glycemic index (it quickly converts to sugar in the body) is also prohibited for now. Beans (garbanzo, kidney, pinto, black, etc.) are fine as long as they don’t give you too much gas, and other starches like corn and potatoes are fine.

Use your imagination, and this new way of eating can be a real adventure. If you need help, there are a number of good Candida cookbooks on the market.

supplementation

It is important to support your immune system during your fight against Candida. Antioxidants A, C, E, zinc, selenium, glutathione, and NAC should be included. Take the load off the liver with milk thistle and lecithin. Garlic, goldenseal root, cinnamon bark, cloves, pau d’arco, caprylic acid, and zinc tannates have candidal properties.

It is very important to repopulate the natural enemies of Candida, lactobacillus acidophilus, which inhabits the small intestine, and bifid bacteria, which live in the oxygen-poor environment of the colon. Look for high strength non-dairy products.

There are potentially dozens of supplements that could be of benefit. Have a nutritionist design a supplemental program that’s right for you. But the fact is that no matter what supplements you use, the key to your success will be the adjustments you make to your eating habits.

Candidiasis is a problem that does not go away on its own. Left unaddressed, it will take hold, migrate from your intestines to other organs, weaken your immune system, and ultimately threaten your health.