The Best Candida Cleanses

Candida albicans is a yeast that is normally found in the gastrointestinal tract. Due to a myriad of reasons, including prolonged antibiotic use, candida can grow out of control, causing fatigue, allergies, immune suppression, depression and GI upset. Natural cleanses, following a specific diet, nutritional supplements and herbs can help put candida back in balance and alleviate symptoms. Persistent candida infection can be a sign of untreated diabetes, or other serious medical conditions. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek a doctor's help.

Diet

Candida uses sugar as fuel to replicate and grow. Candida diets call for eliminating all sugar, including honey, maple syrup, fruit juice and alcohol. Many milk products contain trace amounts of antibiotics which can contribute to candida growth by suppressing normal bacteria which generally inhibit candida growth. Dairy products should be eliminated at least initially until symptoms resolve and then they can slowly be reintroduced. The exception: Some yogurts contain "good" bacteria that can restore balance in the digestive system. Foods that are fermented or high in mold or yeast content, such as mushrooms, brewer's yeast, beer, cheese; and condiments made with vinegar, such as mustard and ketchup, should be avoided. A low fat, lean protein diet high in vegetables and hypoallergenic grains is recommended. Avoid fresh and dried fruits for the first six weeks only. All other healthy foods can be reintroduced gradually after 12 weeks.

Supplements

Supplements can be used to help eliminate candida and help restore helpful organisms in the GI balance. Oral probiotics such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum can be taken in high doses to promote a homeostatic intestinal environment. This is especially useful after antibiotic use or with acute/chronic vaginitis and urinary tract infections. Caprylic acid is a natural anti-fungal that can be absorbed through the intestines to kill off candida and inhibit reproduction.

Herbs

Some of the most powerful components to cleanse the body of candida lie in realm of plant-based medicine. Artemesia annua also known as wormwood or sweet annie contains a strong essential oil called thujone that acts as a antimicrobial and is specific to killing off the fungal stage of candida overgrowth. Berberine-containing plants such as Goldenseal and Berberis vulgaris are considered broad spectrum antibiotics against bacteria, protozoa and fungi including candida. Pau d'arco has also been used for its antifungal properties specific to candida, although there is no body of scientific evidence of efficacy. Using these herbs together for one to three months will be the best combination to cleanse candida from the body naturally.