If you can't think clearly or feel tired, lethargic or just down in the dumps, there are ample "informative" websites--and even some alternative medical practitioners--that tell you that what you need is a good "yeast" cleanse. Cleansing the body of yeast has dubious benefits, as the underlying medical condition that purportedly causes an overgrowth of this fungi in your body hasn't been scientifically proven to exist. Before you part company with your money or embark on a special "yeast cleanse" (often called a candida cleanse), find out more about the murky origins of this alternative treatment from medical practitioners in the know.
The Origin of Candida Cleansing
Integrative physician Dr. Andrew Weil points to a book, "The Yeast Connection" written by Dr. William Crook and published in 1983, which suggests that major maladies such as multiple sclerosis, arthritis and other autoimmune disorders are caused by "toxins" produced by candida (yeast) overgrowth within the body. This spawned diagnoses such as "systemic candidiasis" and "candidiasis hypersensitivity." Dr. Stephen Barrett, co-founder of the National Council Against Health Fraud, notes that some of Crook's claims--that antibiotics kill friendly bacteria that keep yeast in check--have validity; yet Crook's other suppositions, such as that yeast toxins in the body weaken the immune system, are far more dodgy. Crook's recommendations for systemic candidiasis include use of antifungal drugs, vitamins and minerals and a special diet.
Methods of Cleansing
Depending on the source you consult, yeast cleansing is done through a special diet. Alternately, a handful of herbs or natural supplements do the job. Personal blogs provide sincere testimonials from people who have undertaken a yeast cleanse, along with the requisite product promotion. Because there's no scientific evidence to support the diagnosis of systemic candidiasis, Weil notes that the "recommended treatments for it waste time and money." Even the alternative professionals you trust with your health may support the notion that systemic candidiasis is a valid medical condition.
Candida Diet
Mayo Clinic medical expert Brent M. Bauer, M.D. notes that some alternative practitioners--even nutritionists--blame generalized symptoms such as tiredness, headaches and a muzzy memory on yeast. A candida cleanse diet may be recommended to cure "yeast syndrome"; this diet entails eschewing sugar, white flour, cheese and anything that contains yeast based on the the notion that these foods cause yeast overgrowth. Bauer states that there are no scientific studies supporting the efficacy of such diets on any medical condition. If those who undertake a candida cleanse diet feel better, it shouldn't come as a surprise--Bauer notes that cutting out processed foods and adopting a diet rich in fresh foods and whole grains is healthier.
The Truth About Yeast Overgrowth
Weil states that there are times when yeast grows out of control and causes problems. Vaginal infections, thrush (an infection of the mouth and throat) and intestinal upset can occur as a result of antibiotic use. Steroids and the estrogen in oral contraceptives and hormone replacements can also cause an overgrowth of yeast. However, Weil points out that, "Anyone with yeast growing in the blood or vital organs would be critically ill in an intensive care unit." Most yeast cleanses used to treat systemic candidiasis are harmless, he says, with the exception of antifungal drugs such as ketoconazole and fluconazole.
See Your Doctor
Barrett states that many candida cleanse products are marketed in magazine articles, health food store advertisements and even fliers passed out by chiropractors. And then there's the Internet, where search results for "candida cleanse" yield an abundance of confusing and contradictory information. Be mindful that by law, makers of vitamins, minerals and other supplements cannot claim that the product has an effect on a specific medical condition--only drugs approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration intended to prevent or treat a specific ailment can make such claims. However, if you've taken antibiotics or steroids and experience symptoms of chronic gas and abdominal bloating, these shouldn't go ignored, Weil cautions. See your doctor if you think you need treatment for a yeast infection.
Member Comments