Systemic yeast can cause a wide range of problems for some individuals. Although yeast species, such as Candida albicans, exist peacefully in most of us, intestinal imbalance can allow these opportunistic organisms to gain a stronghold before spreading to other areas of the body.
Systemic Yeast
Systemic yeast cause an inflammatory response from the host's immune system, notes Leon Chaitow. The naturopathic practitioner, and author of "Candida Albicans," notes how this inflammation can manifest itself in a wide range of symptoms, although popular concerns include fatigue, brain fog, itching and carbohydrate cravings.
Intestinal Balance
Jonny Bowden, the board-certified nutritionist and the author of several books on natural approaches to healthcare, explains how the intestinal balance remains key in preventing or beating an systemic yeast infection. Ideally, the good bacteria should dominate this region, but the use of antibiotics or a high sugar diet can create favourable conditions for the problematic yeast, such as candida.
Carbohydrate Control
Because these yeasts derive all their nourishment from dietary sugars, you should take this into account when planning your meals. Dr. Rodger Murphree, a US physician who has tailored a number of treatment plans for patients with this condition, suggests removing sugar from the diet in order to starve the yeast population. He also explains that you should moderate carbohydrate-rich foods, like bread and rice, as the starch they contain converts into sugar in the intestines.
Yeast Killing Foods
The consumption of yeast-killing foods can stop problematic species in their tracks. Bowden highlights a number of fairly common foods and herbs that do a good job, including coconut oil, garlic, grapefruit seed extract and pau d'arco. Consuming a range of this compounds kills off the unwanted yeasts.
Probiotics
Ensuring a healthy bacterial balance in the intestines remains an extremely important factor in preventing yeast overgrowth. Chaitow notes how beneficial bacteria, such as the lactobacillus and bifidus species, can help crowd out the undesirable organisms. You will find these beneficial bacteria in probiotics and live yogurts.
References
- Leon Chaitow: "Candida Albicans": 1999.
- TotalHealthBreakthroughs.com: Jonny Bowden -- Get Rid of Candida For Good
- EI Resource: Treatment of Candida and Yeast Overgrowth, Dr Rodger Murphree
