Candida albicans is a naturally occurring yeast in the genital and intestinal tract. In proper proportion to the good bacteria also present in these areas, it is relatively harmless. Under stressful conditions or improper diet, however, candida production increases and may result in constipation, abdominal pain, headaches, muscle and joint pain, sinusitis, thrush, extreme fatigue, hair loss, depression and a host of other illnesses. When an overgrowth of candida occurs, vitamin and mineral absorption decreases. Candidiasis sufferers may never know they have an overproduction of yeast and may go years without a definitive diagnosis. A natural diet to prevent candida overproduction is also the best treatment for this malady.
No White Products
Avoid sugar and white flour. Candida feeds on sugar, and starchy foods turn to sugar in the gut. Decreasing your consumption of these products will result in clearer thinking and an increase in vitamin and mineral absorption. With an overgrowth of candida, it is best to avoid sugar in almost every form.
Plain Yogurt and Acidophilus
Plain yogurt contains the live cultures or good bacteria that is needed by the intestinal tract for proper digestion. When candida has overrun the gut, proper digestion cannot take place. Consumption of yogurt alone will not kill off the candida overgrowth, and many remedies should be used simultaneously. An additional supplement of acidophilus is also helpful to give an added boost to the benefits of plain yogurt.
Fresh Vegetables
Low glycemic value vegetables (see Resources) add fiber to the diet and help sweep free the digestive tract of the candida yeast. Fruits should be avoided because they add sugar and promote growth of candida. Citrus fruits are especially troublesome because, although they are high in acid, they actually develop alkaline properties in the body; yeast loves an alkalinic environment.
Avoid "Aged" Foods
Anything aged or fermented provides a lush environment for candida to thrive. Avoid aged cheeses, alcohol, fermented foods, vinegar, pickles and grains containing glutens (see Resources). These foods also kill off the good bacteria in the intestinal tract.
Additional Supplements
Caprylic acid in tablet form is an antifungal compound that kills candida in the gut. You may experience an increase in bowel movements and notice a mucousy quality. This is the candida organism being destroyed. Garlic tablets inhibit candida organism growth. Calcium, taken as calcium citrate, replaces the calcium that sufferers have been unable to absorb due to candida infestation.
Conclusion
Many remedies may have to be tried before true relief from the candida overgrowth is felt. The Candida albicans organism is extremely virulent and resistant to treatment. Frequently the course of treatment will last several months.
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