Candida is a type of yeast that naturally resides in and on most of us. It is mainly found in the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts. While it normally lives in balance with the other yeasts and bacteria without causing problems. Changes in a persons immunity, stress, altered microbiome, certain medications and other factors can lead to an overgrowth causing a variety of symptoms.
Chronic candidiasis or yeast syndrome is the overgrowth of candida.
It can cause a wide variety of symptoms in virtually every system of the body.
Gastrointestinal
Genitourinary
Endocrine
Nervous and
Immune system.
Chronic candidiasis is a multi-factional condition.
People normally say they feel sick all over.
Symptoms can include fatigue, allergies, immune system malfunction, depression, chemical sensitivities and digestive disturbances.
Women are eight times more likely to experience candidiasis compared with men.
Causes
Long term antibiotic use
Nutrient deficiencies
Diabetes
Oral contraceptive use
Chronic stress
Metabolic dysregulation
Poor sleep quality
Ageing
Poor immune resilience
Laboratory tests
To identify candida overgrowth a comprehensive digestive stool analysis is recommended. The test evaluates digestion, intestinal function, intestinal environment and absorption.
Another laboratory test involves measuring the level of antibodies to candida.
Treatment
Treatment involves more than just eliminating the overgrowth of candida. As elimination alone doesn't address the underlying factors that caused it in the first place.
Anti candida diet
Dietary changes play an integral role in reducing candida. Diet also works well alongside supplementation to eradicate candida as well as lifestyle changes.
Part of the dietary recommendations include removing all sugars including
refined sugars (white, brown, raw),
rice malt syrup,
honey, maple syrup,
corn syrup, date syrup and
molasses.
Avoiding all fruits (fresh, dried and juiced).
Swapping starchy vegetables such as potatoes, pumpkin, corn, carrots for leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, onions, asparagus, celery and zucchini.
Sanitary products
Choose natural tampons and pads such as 100% organic cotton and medical-grade silicone menstrual cups. As these are less irritating for you and the planet.
If you suspect Candida overgrowth and need assistance please book in for a Naturopathic consultation.
Have a great day.
Jules x
Casuarina Holistic Health is conveniently located on the Tweed Coast. Appointments can be either in clinic or via Zoom.
Comments