Candida is a collective term comprising over 20 species of yeast. The most common species that causes problems in people is Candida albicans. Candida infection, or candidiasis, is a common type of yeast infection that can be localized to warm and moist areas such as the vagina, mouth and bowel, or it can become systemic via the bloodstream. During candidiasis, the yeast transforms into its fungal form, which causes physical damage and releases toxins. According to Professional Guide to Diseases, about 75 percent of U.S. females experience at least one bout of vaginal candidiasis, and more than 90 percent of HIV-positive people will experience thrush, or candidiasis of the mouth.
Compromised Immune System
Individuals with compromised immune systems are most at risk for abnormal Candida growth. A compromised immune system can develop from cancer treatments, such as radiation, chemotherapy and surgery, or from diseases such as AIDS and diabetes, or from lifestyle issues, such as diet, severe stress and depression. In immune-compromised people, candidiasis begins as localized infections, but can become systemic in almost 15 percent of cases, as cited in the journal Critical Reviews in Microbiology.
Systemic candidiasis spreads throughout the body via the bloodstream, frequently attacking the brain, heart, kidneys, eyes and lungs, and can be life threatening. In fact, it is estimated that up to 45 percent of people with systemic candidiasis die, although it must be understood that most also have severely compromised immune systems from a serious disease or aggressive treatment of a disease.
Antibiotic Overuse and Misuse
A common cause of Candida overgrowth is the overuse or misuse of broad spectrum antibiotics, according to Medline Plus. Antibiotics indiscriminately kill all bacteria, including the "friendly" bacteria within the gastrointestinal system that are needed for normal health. An upset in the normal flora and fauna of the gut allows Canadida species to grow rampantly, developing into infections and eventually morphing into fungal forms that release dangerous toxins.
Even if prescription antibiotics are not taken intentionally, people unknowingly consume antibiotics and hormones from chicken, beef and dairy sources because domesticated animals are given them to reduce the incidence of disease and to promote growth. Additionally, residues of various pharmaceutical products, including antibiotics, are found in municipal water supplies.
Poor Nutrition
Poor nutrition is another cause of Candida overgrowth. According to the Complete Candida Yeast Guidebook, high carbohydrate diets, as well as coffee, excessive protein, refined sugars and artificial sugars cause the body to become acidic, which provides an ideal environment for Candida overgrowth to occur. High-sugar diets are also linked to diabetes and cancer. In addition, inadequate amounts of vitamins, minerals and other required nutrients that the body needs can compromise the immune system, which can lead to Candida issues.
Pharmaceutical Use
Another cause of candidiasis is use of pharmaceuticals other than antibiotics, such as corticosteroids, birth control pills, immune suppressing drugs and synthetic hormone supplements, notes MedicineNet.com. All pharmaceuticals are very acidic and all are toxic to varying degrees, as they are petroleum-based derivatives. Thus, immune systems can be compromised by chronic pharmaceutical use.
References
- "Professional Guide to Diseases"; D.R. Springhouse et al; 2005
- "Critical Reviews in Microbiology"; Candida Infections: An Overview; Frank C. Odds; 1987
- Medline Plus: Vaginal Yeast Infections
- "Complete Candida Yeast Guidebook, Revised 2nd Edition: Everything You Need to Know About Prevention, Treatment & Diet"; Z.P. Rona M.D. et al; 2000
- MedicineNet.com: Yeast Infection Causes
