Candida overgrowth can significantly hinder the body’s ability to heal. Achieving balance within the internal environment is crucial for overall health and disease prevention. Candida, or yeast, plays a role in protein breakdown within the intestines, alongside beneficial bacteria like lactobacillus acidophilus. An imbalance occurs when non-friendly bacteria proliferate, leading to yeast overgrowth.
Several factors can disrupt this delicate balance. Antibiotics, cortisone-type drugs, oral contraceptives, and chemotherapy can kill friendly flora. Additionally, Candida thrives on simple sugars and foods that convert to glucose in the body, including refined carbohydrates and yeast-containing products.
Systemic yeast overgrowth manifests in numerous symptoms, including mood swings, irritability, depression, headaches, lethargy, gastritis, colitis, bloating, fluid in the ears, itching, rashes, psoriasis, acne, vision disturbances, nasal congestion, postnasal drip, cystitis, endometriosis, kidney or bladder infections, appetite changes, insomnia, poor circulation, numbness, vaginal itching, menstrual issues, allergies, hives, decreased libido, thrush, and colic.
Proper digestion is paramount in controlling Candida. Enzymes break down food, and minerals aid in the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, which kills pathogens and further breaks down proteins and minerals. A healthy digestive process ensures food is properly broken down and absorbed. However, insufficient chewing, inadequate enzyme production, or low hydrochloric acid levels can impair digestion, leading to malnourishment.
Partially digested food can irritate the gut wall or circulate in the bloodstream in an unusable form, triggering a defensive response. Yeast is then called upon to consume undigested protein or starch, producing waste that contributes to the aforementioned symptoms.
While killing off yeast provides temporary relief, addressing digestion is essential. Food enzymes, particularly cellulase, which breaks down yeast cell walls, are valuable. Herbs like white pond lily, greasewood, purple loosestrife, pau d’arco, caprylic acid, oregano, and garlic can also help control yeast overgrowth.
A Candida-controlled diet involves avoiding starchy foods, white flour, processed foods, and sugars. Packaged meats, canned goods, vinegar, yeast products, cakes, candy, mushrooms, alcohol, and peanuts should also be limited. Focus on fresh vegetables and organic meats. Initially, it may be beneficial to limit fruits and fruit juices during a Candida cleanse.
Following medication courses, continue digestive support with enzymes containing cellulase. Replenishing friendly bacteria with acidophilus, bifidophilus, and other probiotics is crucial after Candida programs or antibiotic use. A clean intestinal system with good peristalsis will eventually support the natural repopulation of beneficial bacteria. By addressing these factors, Candida can be effectively managed.