Candida albicans is a yeast that grows naturally in the intestinal tract of humans at healthy levels. Candida overgrowth (also referred to as candidiasis) symptoms occur when the yeast multiplies to harmful amounts, invading the bloodstream and other organs. Candida overgrowth is caused by intestinal disturbances, such as too much sugar consumption or high doses of antibiotics. To rid the body of candida overgrowth, a candida diet must be followed to starve and kill the yeast.
History
Candida begins to flourish at unhealthy levels when intestinal balance is upset. According to Dr. Leyardia Black, candida overgrowth is "basically a twentieth-century disease, resulting from medical developments like antibiotics, birth-control pills, ulcer medications and estrogen replacement therapy (HRT)." The first antibiotics were prescribed in the 1930s, and they continue to be prescribed by doctors for a variety of ailments. Antibiotics also can enter an American's body from consuming foods such as meat and eggs, since most animals raised for food in the United States are given antibiotics. Dr. Leon Chaitow of London says diets rich in sugars encourage candida yeast to spread. Candida dieters should eliminate all forms of sugar, use organic animal products and avoid taking medications, if possible, to starve and kill the excess yeast.
Identification
According to the Holistic Help website, candida symptoms are extensive. Symptoms include excessive fatigue, cravings for alcohol and sweets, inability to think clearly, depression, irritability and mood swings. It might be difficult to identify and diagnose candida because of the many symptoms and because most conventional doctors not familiar with treating and curing candida. "Alternative" doctors are more likely to have candida testing available, which include blood tests and/or stool cultures.
Misconceptions
The mainstream medical community commonly dismisses the idea that candida exists. According to Dr. Priscilla Slagle of Nutritional/Functional Medicine and Psychiatry in Palm Springs, California,"These doctors fail to recognize that the same fungal overgrowth which can occur in the mouth or vagina can occur in any mucous membranes in the body. This includes the entire gastrointestinal tract, the sinuses, the ears, nasopharynx and entire respiratory system, and the genitourinary tract." Slagle also says there could be as many as 80 million Americans with chronic candidiasis. This misconception can cause many incorrect diagnoses and treatment plans. Candida overgrowth can be mistaken for depression and leaky-gut syndrome, among others.
Types
There are several types of candida cures. According to the Life Research Universal website, diet is an important part of the cure. Black says sweets, alcohol and refined carbohydrates should be eliminated from the diet. All forms of sugar are out, including natural sweeteners, such as honey, plus foods rich in carbohydrates, such as potatoes. Animal products should be free of hormones and antibiotics. Other aspects of candida cure include rebuilding the "good" stomach bacteria with probiotics. This can be done through the use of yogurt or acidophilus supplements. Other cures include ingesting natural antifungals, such as tea tree oil, coconut oil or oil of oregano.
Time Frame
The Life Research Universal website says candidiasis recovery is a slow process. It should take at least three months and perhaps longer than six months for complete recovery. Previous symptoms will not be present when the candida returns to normal levels. Care should be taken to maintain restored health by avoiding high amounts of sugar and carbohydrates.
Member Comments