The Problematic Affects Of Candida Overgrowth

Have you ever heard of the term Candida? For some people, Candida is generally a new term and should be explored fully. Candida refers to a category of yeast that is typically found in small amounts in the mouth, intestines, and skin. In these small amounts, the yeast is not problematic. Candida is the most common member of the human gut microbiota and exists harmlessly in roughly 40-60% of the general population. The good bacteria in our body keeps candida levels under control. However, candida can grow rapidly if our good bacteria is compromised due to stress, lowered immunity, or a diet high in sugar, refined carbohydrates, and processed foods. Yeast loves these sugars and these foods make it easy for yeast to multiply and thrive. When the Candida albicans species grows uncontrollably, it is known as candida overgrowth. This is the most common cause of fungal infections and for those with already compromised immune system's, candida can lead to more serious internal infections such as thrush, a candida overgrowth that develops in the mouth or throat. Even if you have a healthy immune system, having too much yeast can be a problem because it can break down the walls of the intestines and penetrate the bloodstream, releasing toxic by-products into the body. This can cause intestinal permeability, leading to a condition known as leaky gut. Yeast overgrowth can also lead to more frequent yeast infections.

So what causes candida overgrowth? There are several causes for this and one being an imbalance of microorganisms in the gut. I talk a lot about the gut and how it is our second brain. Everything is linked to our gut so it doesn’t surprise me to learn that candida overgrowth can be caused by an imbalance in the gut. Another cause may be a compromised or weakened immune system. A weakened immune system can form as a result of having an autoimmune condition such a celiac disease, lupus or immunodeficiency conditions such as AIDS. When our immune system is compromised, we are more prone to illnesses. We must also look at our diet. Candida overgrowth can be caused by a high carbohydrate diet. A diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates can fuel candida overgrowth, as well as excessive alcohol consumption. Regular consumption of large quantities of alcohol can impair the gut lining, compromise liver function, and weaken the immune system. Another cause of yeast overgrowth is eating fermented foods. While fermented foods are nourishing for someone with a healthy gut, those with a candida overgrowth do best if they limit these foods as fermented foods feed gut bacteria and can fuel an existing overgrowth. Some medications can also cause an imbalance in the gut such as antibiotics and oral contraceptives. These medications can wipe out good bacteria, providing the perfect environment for candida to flourish. Chronic stress is another culprit. Stress can impair the immune system when stress levels are high and not regularly managed. Stress can be the root to all evil, so be aware of your stress levels and try your best to manage it. Lastly, heavy metals toxicity and chemical exposure can lead to candida over growth. Heavy metals or metallic elements have a high density. Common heavy metals are arsenic, chromium, lead, mercury, and cadmium. These chemicals and toxins are known to cause many health conditions. They have carcinogenic effects and can lead to organ damage among other conditions.

There are a wide variety of common symptoms of candida overgrowth. I’m going to list all of them because I believe many people are unaware of these symptoms and it’s extremely important to bring awareness to this problematic yeast overgrowth. Symptoms include ADHD, anxiety, loading, brain fog, difficulty concentrating, constipation, diarrhea, depression, fatigue, food sensitivities due to leaky gut, irritability, mood swings, poor memory, rectal or vaginal itching, severe seasonal allergies or itchy ears, sinus infections, thrush, urinary track infections, vaginal infections, strong cravings for sugar and refined carbohydrates, skin issues (such as eczema, psoriasis, hives, and rashes), and skin and nail fungal infections. Please talk to your doctor if you suspect an overgrowth. Many healthcare professionals are able to diagnose a candida overgrowth based on signs and symptoms alone. However, there are several tests that are helpful in identifying a candida overgrowth. The following lab tests can also be used to identify an overgrowth. IgA, IgG, and IgM candida antibodies is a simple blood test that can detect high levels of these antibodies, which can determine if there is candida overgrowth somewhere in the body. Your doctor can check your complete blood count (CBC), a blood test to help determine if there is a low white blood cell count. A stool test is also beneficial. With a stool sample, doctors can determine the species of yeast as well as which treatment will be most effective. Another test is a urine organix dysbiosis. This urine test reports D-arabinitol, which is a specific marker for Candida sp., which can cause disease in people, especially if they are immunocompromised.

There are a few supplements that you can take, once you discuss and get approval from your healthcare provider. They may suggest a high quality multivitamin. Candida overgrowth is often accompanied by nutritional deficiencies such as vitamin B, essential fatty acids, or magnesium. A high-quality multivitamin may be beneficial. Another supplement to consider is anti-fungal botanicals, such as cats claw, berberine, and caprylic acid. These can reduce fungal growth. Probiotics are also important. A probiotic could be highly beneficial once a person is ready to rebuild good bacteria. Your doctor will determine that time frame and when it’s appropriate to start taking one.

Some of the known diets that provide benefits for candida reduction and system healing include sugar free (this may include some or all fruits, depending on severity), low carb or ketogenic, dairy free, Paleo and antifungal (elimination of sugars, most carbs, and dairy as well as caffeine and any mold-containing foods, such as peanuts, cashews, pecans, pistachios, cheese and mushrooms.). Some foods that are recommended to keep in your pantry are cooking and baking oils, such as avocado, coconut and olive oil, garlic, herbs such as basil, cilantro, parsley, rosemary and thyme, lemons and grapefruit, turmeric, organic meat and wild caught fish, and non-starchy vegetables such as arugula, bok choy, cabbage, collard greens and turnips. Specific diets should be prescribed or approved by a healthcare provider so make sure you are discussing these suggestions with your doctor before starting.

The information I have provided is just a guide and should always be discussed with a your doctor if you are suspecting candida overgrowth. Please do not try to diagnosis yourself. Talk to your doctor, do the necessary tests in order to get solid proof of your suspicions and allow them to align a treatment protocol that works best for you.