Candida albicans is a type of yeast that naturally exists in the human gut. When the population grows dramatically, Candida causes a yeast infection characterized by fatigue, weight gain, joint pain and gas, reports the website The Candida Diet. If you have a Candida infection, modify your diet to avoid foods that stimulate the proliferation of this type of yeast.
Significance
Candida overgrowth occurs when natural bacteria in the body cannot keep the normal yeast population in check. When Candida yeast grows excessively, infections affecting a number of body systems may occur. Candida infections cause rashes, ringworm, joint pain, sore throat, bladder infections and gastrointestinal problems. Failure to control the yeast population exacerbates existing problems and may cause serious illness, especially in people with poor immune systems.
Time Frame
The website The Candida Diet recommends that people following an anti-Candida diet move through three stages of dieting. In the first stage, which normally lasts for two or three weeks, you detoxify your body to kill off excessive yeast populations. During the second phase, you begin to reintroduce some foods back into your diet. This phase lasts four weeks and is usually accompanied by anti-fungal medication. The third phase consists of repopulating your gut with probiotic bacteria and maintaining a normal population of Candida. This phase is long term, as you avoid problematic foods that trigger the overgrowth of Candida.
Meal Planning
The most important thing to remember when following the Candida diet is to avoid sugars upon which the yeast feed. Most non-starchy vegetables, such as leafy greens, broccoli, carrots, onions and tomatoes, are acceptable to eat. Eat protein-rich meats and fish in moderate portions. Nuts, seeds and grains are other anti-Candida foods, although nuts with high mold populations such as peanuts and pistachios should be avoided. When following the Candida diet, avoid fruit, aged cheeses, alcohol and glutinous foods such as white bread and pasta.
Considerations
Introduce probiotic foods after killing the Candida during the first phase of the diet. Look for yogurt products with live and active cultures. Try to eat plain rather than flavored yogurts, as plain yogurt usually contains fewer grams of sugar per serving. The Candida Diet website reports that yogurt made from goat or sheep milk is preferable to cows' milk. Herbal teas also have anti-fungal properties and will reduce levels of Candida in your body.
Misconceptions
Many people on an anti-Candida diet assume they cannot have flavorful, fun meals without cheeses, chocolate, sugar, gluten products or alcohol. However, the anti-Candida diet is versatile and accommodates most recipes with a few substitutions. Focus on getting proper amounts of protein, carbohydrates and fats and avoiding prohibited items. Eat gluten-free whole grain pasta, brown rice or quinoa, which provide carbohydrates, in lieu of white bread or starchy vegetables.
Member Comments