The overgrowth of the candida genus of yeast can infect many organ systems in the human body. This type of infection can cause an aggravating itch in the infected area to a life threatening condition. Candidiasis is treated with anti-fungal medications and diet. Protein-rich foods are an integral part of an anti-yeast diet.
Causes
Candida infections are caused by the candida fungus; this fungus can be contracted from someone else, grow in your body as a result of anti-biotic overuse, a weakened immune system or an improper diet. Any one of these factors can cause a candida overgrowth. In many cases it is a combination of these causes.
Treatment
A combination approach is required to treat the candida fungus. The first part of the treatment is the use of anti-fungal medications. Fluconazole, clotrimazole and itraconazole are all examples of anti-fungal medications. These drugs can be administered orally or topically. The second portion of the treatment is restricting intake of foods that provide sustenance to the fungus growth in your body.
Prohibited Food
Limiting the intake of certain foods will rob the yeast in your body the nutrients it requires to live. By starving the candida you make it more vulnerable to your immune system and antifungal medications. Foods or drinks that contain sugar, caffeine, processed flower, yeast, alcohol and vingegar should be removed from your diet if you are combating a candida infection.
The Role of Protein Foods
Protein is not a substance from which the candida yeast can garner nutrition from. It is a major part of an anti-candida diet due to this fact and the fact that protein is required for the proper functioning of your immune system. Protein rich foods is also used to make up all the calories lost by removing the foods beneficial to yeast. Poultry, beef, eggs, fish, beef, beans and pork are all foods that have a high protein content.
Results
Candida treatment is a process that can stretch as long as six months. This is because the candida yeast is a resilient organism. It is not uncommon for an infection to reoccur or cause complications. If left untreated, candida infections can become life threatening in individuals who have a suppressed immune system such as HIV sufferers.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Health: Yeast infection
- The Candida Diet: Foods to Avoid
- "Control of Communicable Diseases Manual 18th Edition ;" David L. Heymann; 2004
- "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 16th Edition"; Lawrence Madoff, James Macguire, Kenneth Brandt, Bruce Gilliland, Scott Thaier; 2005
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