Defined
Candidiasis is an infection with, or disease caused by, Candida, especially Candida albicans.
Candida albicans is a normal inhabitant of the gastrointestinal tract, skin, mouth, and vaginal canal. Candida overgrowth results in a wide variety of localized and systemic symptoms. The most common areas affected are the skin, oral mucous membranes (thrush), esophagus (esophagitis), respiratory tract (pulmonary Candidiasis), vagina (vaginal yeast infection), and gastrointestinal tract. Systemic infections can be the result of a compromised immune system, or the result of yeast cells, particles of yeast cells, or toxins from yeast "die off" entering the systemic circulation as a result of a disruption of the intestinal lining (leaky gut). Systemic Candidiasis can have an effect on the heart, brain, and nervous, immune,genitourinary, and endocrine systems. Candidiasis can be more severe in immunocompromised patients.
See Why the Outbreak Of Candida Albicans.
Signs and Symptoms
These are some of the more common complaints regarding Candidiasis.
- Fatigue
- Intestinal bloating, gas
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Premenstrual syndrome
- Depression, anxiety
- Difficulty concentrating
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- Recurrent bladder infections
- Vaginal itch and burning
- Food allergies
- Sensitivity to smells
- Sugar (refined carbohydrate) cravings
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Etiology
- Poor liver function
- Weakened immunity
- Poor digestive functioning
- Systemic use of antibacterial, immunosuppressive, and corticosteroid therapy
- Diet high in dairy products (e.g., processed pasteurized milk and cheese)
- Endocrinopathies
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- Bowel flora imbalance
- High sugar intake
- Obesity
- Diabetes mellitus
- Nutrient deficiency
- Chronic illness
- Use of birth control pills
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Treatment Considerations
- Digestion plays a central role in the prevention of Candidiasis. Therefore, particular attention should be paid to such remedies that aid digestion such as betaine hydrochloride, pancreatic enzymes, and remedies that support bile production and flow.
- Reduce stool pH to create an environment that is not conducive to Candida overgrowth.
- Use anti-fungal and anti-microbial remedies.
- Support overall immune functioning. Recurrent or chronic Candidiasis will, over time, result in a compromised immune system.
- Enhance liver detoxification mechanisms. If food and chemical sensitivities are issues, liver support is essential.
- Re-establish healthy intestinal microflora with the use of probiotics.
Supplementation
See the following:
Lifestyle Recommendations
Due to the high rate of relapse among people with Candida overgrowth, the following lifestyle modifications are recommended during the 12-week supplement protocol:
- For optimal results, you should remove all dairy products and refined sugars from the diet during the twelve weeks.
- Avoid alcoholic beverages.
- Avoid foods with high mold/fungal content. Some examples being dried fruits, peanuts, and fermented products, such as cheeses and vinegar.
If you have any questions or comments about Candidiasis, please contact Dr. Akin.
Copyright © 2004 Bruce Bond D.C.
Synergistic Therapeutics: Combining Whole Food Nutrition and Herbal Medicine for Common Ailments: First Edition
Used with permission. All rights reserved.
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