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Candida (Yeast Infection)

Just tell me what to take for candida

Candida albicans is a type of parasitic yeast like fungus that inhabits the intestines, genital tract, mouth, esophagus and throat. 

Normally this fungus lives in a healthy balance with the other bacteria and yeasts in the body.  It is important to note that a certain level of candida yeast is a useful, natural part of the human system, helping to balance normal body function.  However, certain conditions can cause it to multiply while weakening the immune system.  The fungus can travel through the bloodstream to many parts of the body.  

Candidiasis is the disorder caused by an overgrowth of the yeast Candida albicans within the body.  

A yeast infection looks like:

yeast infection photographs

Candida is one of those difficult to diagnose diseases because it has many symptoms that indicate other ailments.

When there is an abnormal increase in the amount of yeast, it can secrete a large volume of toxins into the body which may weaken the immune system.  Once this happens, a self-perpetuating cycle can develop.   The longer the yeast is in the system, the weaker the immune system becomes.  The weaker the immune system, the higher the tolerance it has to the yeast itself.  This allows the yeast colonies to continue to propagate, releasing more toxins and further impairing the immune system.  This results in a variety of conditions at different levels of severity and discomfort, experienced by millions each year.   Candidiasis occurs in both males and females, although it is more prevalent among females.

A Yeast Infection Symptoms

Since candida can cause multiple systemic illnesses, a whole gamut of symptoms, ranging from the general to those affecting specific areas, are possible.

These include low energy and fatigue, irritability, anxiety, fear, depression, 'brain fog", memory loss, mood swings, prostatitis, canker sores, persistent heartburn, headaches, lightheadedness, muscle and joint pain, constipation, gas, bloating, indigestion,  diarrhea, abdominal pain, bad breath, nagging cough, congestion, numbness in the face and extremities, tingling sensations, acne, night sweats, severe itching, clogged sinuses, PMS, burning tongue, vaginitis, kidney and bladder infections, hyperactivity, adrenal problems, rectal itching, impotence, sensitivity to chemicals, poor circulation, resulting  in consistently cold hands and feet, urinary tract infections, white coating on the tongue or esophagus (thrush), heart palpitations, and irregular pulse and even diabetes. 

Symptoms often worsen in damp and/or moldy places, and after consumption of foods containing sugar and/or yeast.  Because of its many and varied symptoms, this disorder is often misdiagnosed.  Candidiasis may affect both men and women, however, it is rarely transmitted sexually.  

Very often, allergies to foods are present in people with candida infections.  

In the respiratory tract, problems caused by candida range from chronic, post-nasal drip and coughs to sore throats, colds and asthma.  

The skin can be affected too, with eczema, itching, rashes, acne, and fungal infections.

A variety of gynecological symptoms are possible with candida, the most common one being a vaginal yeast infection characterized by itching, redness, irritation, and a cheesy, white discharge. 

Candida sometimes can be thought to be a chronic fatigue syndrome or sarcoid.

Considerations

All persons on long term antibiotics  or chemotherapy are at high risk for severe cases of candidiasis.  Taking antibiotics also can cause a deficiency of vitamin K, which is manufactured by the "good bacteria" in the intestines.  Eating plenty of leafy greens, alfalfa, strawberries, whole grains, and yogurt can restore the vitamin K balance.

Allergy testing is advised for anyone with symptoms of candida infections.  

Candidiasis may be related to hypoglycemia.   People on psychiatric drugs have an increased chance of developing an overgrowth of candida.

Treatment

Rectifying immediate and local symptoms are relatively easy.  There are many nonprescription corrective measures including natural remedies.  However, treating local infections does not address the root of the problem, and the overall condition really should be treated, so that yeast-related maladies don't continue to occur.  Balancing the system is needed.

Here is a site for Relief from Candidiasis, Candida and Yeast Infections

 

Diet  

A person's approach to food is important as it can either inhibit or accelerate yeast-related problems.  In using dietary strategies as a treatment for candida overgrowth, a restricted diet should be followed for several weeks.  It should be heavy on protein and complex carbohydrates.  Actually, this diet can be followed for an indeterminate amount of time, and foods can also be added back eventually.  This should be done in a gradual, one-at-a-time manner, to determine a specific food's effect.   If symptoms recur after a particular food is reintroduced, that food should be avoided. 

The main thing to remember as you follow an anti-candida diet is to exclude sugar.  The idea is to guard against the continued growth of yeast and to fortify the immune system, and since sugar is a main food source for yeast, and does not benefit the immune system, it has to be eliminated.  Don't just ban granulated sugar, be on guard against honey, corn and maple syrup, fruit, maltose, artificial sweeteners, fructose, cornstarch, sodas, and lactose (a milk sugar found in dairy products).

Follow a yeast free diet in order to deter further yeast induced maladies.  Eliminate fermented or yeast- and mold-containing products such as breads, including muffins, cake, cookies, and other refined carbohydrates; fruit, including fruit juice and dried fruit; cheese, vinegar, pickled and smoked foods; alcohol; mushrooms; tomato sauce; nuts and food products containing monosodium glutamate and hydrolyzed vegetable protein    Avoid aged cheeses, chocolate, dried fruits, fermented foods, all grains containing gluten (wheat, oats, rye, and barley), ham, honey, nut butters, pickles, potatoes, raw mushrooms, coy sauce, sprouts and vinegar. 

Eliminate citruc and acidic fruits such as oranges, grapefruit, lemons, tomatoes, pineapple and limes from your diet for one month, then add back only a few twice weekly.   Although they seem acidic, these fruits are actually alkaline forming in the body and candida thrives on them.  

Take only hypoallergenic supplements.   Whole food supplements are best  - see  Wellness Support Network™ (the Wellness Support Network provides free live help, you can actually talk to a Consultant)

To prevent reinfection, replace your toothbrush every thirty days.  This is a good preventative measure against both fungal and bacterial infections of the mouth. 

Do not use corticosteroids or oral contraceptives until the condition improves.  

Avoid household chemical products and cleaners, chlorinated water, mothballs, synthetic textiles and damp and moldy places, such as basements.  

Eat natural, healthy foods.  These include whole grains (brown rice, millet, amaranth, quinoa and barley); fresh vegetable; tofu; miso; plain yogurt; lean meats; fresh fish and eggs from free-range hens.  Yeast growth may also be held in check by using small amounts of organic extra virgin olive oil. 

Drink a lot of water.

Eat plain yogurt that contains live yogurt cultures.  

Take some type of fiber daily.  Oat bran is a good source.

If you have chronic and/or unusually persistent candida infections, consult your health care provider. 

Helpful Nutrition:

Supplements

Recommend:  A good product is made by Native Remedies 
Get More Info on Candidate for Candidiasis, Candida and Yeast Infections

Beneficial:

Vitamin C- recommended dosage is 3000 to 15000 mg daily in three even portions to fight infection.

B Complex - used to alleviate stress, the recommended dosage is 50 to 100 mg with each meal.

Where can I get these products? (or click on the link where the nutrition is mentioned)

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