1. Candida Overgrows and Causes Fungus Infections
Candida is an organism that normally doesn't cause problems. Usually, natural bacteria or the "good" bacteria in your gastrointestinal tract keep Candida under control. But when your immune system weakens for any reason, your body's defenses are down and the bad bacteria take over. That's when Candida goes on a growth rampage and turns into one (or more) funky fungus infections. Several scenarios may cause your body to develop Candidiasis syndrome. One is when you've been on a broad-spectrum antibiotic for an illness or infection. The antibiotic kills the bad bacteria, but it also kills the beneficial bacteria that keep Candida at bay. Eating a diet that contains too many simple carbohydrates such as white bread, white potatoes and sugary snacks can cause Candidiasis in a body that's already too stressed from life's pressures. Sometimes, pregnancy or taking oral contraceptives cause Candidiasis.
2. Symptoms Are Sometimes Subtle
You may not associate some of the symptoms of Candidiasis with the fungus infection that it is. If the fungus is in your gastrointestinal tract, you may experience uncomfortable swelling in the stomach, a bloated feeling and heartburn. You may have constipation, or sometimes diarrhea. If the fungus infection is in the vaginal tract, itching, burning and an odorous discharge go along with Candidiasis. Candidiasis can affect the central nervous system, causing depression, anxiety and a "mental fog" or inability to concentrate or focus on your work.
3. Eliminate Factors That Fuel Fungus
The best way to begin to fight off the fungus infection that constitutes Candidiasis is to eliminate foods that fuel fungus in the first place. Cut down on white breads, white potatoes and sugary snacks such as donuts, cakes, pies and cookies. In fact, until the fungus is under control, it's best to eliminate these foods altogether. Yeast (found in sweets and breads) is a fungus, so in order to get rid of fungus infections (often called yeast infections), you must eliminated yeast for a time. Also avoid dairy products such as cheese and yogurt until the fungus infection is under control.
4. Fight Fungus With Garlic
Garlic has a strong smell, it's true. You may not want to smell garlicky on a first date, but it can be a valuable tool in killing fungus. Many researchers have found that using liquid aged garlic extract is quite effective in killing a fungus infection. Garlic can help restore the natural defense system, fighting off Candidiasis. Some doctors have found it more effective than the prescription drug Nystatin (often prescribed for fungus infections).
5. Replace the Good Bacteria With Yogurt
Once symptoms subside, replace the good bacteria back into your system by eating yogurt again. But be sure to eat the yogurt that contains "live cultures." Once vaginal Candidiasis has disappeared, restore the good bacteria and help boost your immunity to recurring infections. Douching with a mixture of vinegar and yogurt restores the normal bacteria.
