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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:

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 SymptomsSince 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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We have used our best judgment in compiling this information. The Food and Drug Administration may not have evaluated the information presented. Any reference to a specific product is for your information only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease
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