Yeast overgrowth, or chronic yeast syndrome, is caused by the proliferation of candidas albicans in our gastrointestinal tract. Candidas lives naturally on and in our bodies, kept in check by bacteria. In the right conditions, such as immune suppression or antibiotic therapy, the yeast may grow out of control causing systemic candidiasis. Numerous symptoms linked to it may be subdued by dietary supplements. Consult a medical doctor before attempting to treat yeast overgrowth with supplements.
Lactobacillus Acidophillus
Lactobacillus acidophillus is a probiotic, bacteria that are helpful to your body. The Harvard Medical School Home Health Guide estimates that your bowel contains 100 trillion of these organisms, which are necessary for the natural functioning of the body. Probiotics help with digestion and the immune system, as well as keep a natural balance in the bowel's flora. Too much yeast throws this balance off. Acidophilus may help restore it.
Garlic
The website MysticMedicine.com, lists garlic as a viable supplement for the treatment of yeast overgrowth. It states that garlic is traditionally used as an anti-infective, anti-fungal agent. The herb also possesses anti-candidal properties. The active ingredient in garlic is allicin that is activated upon the damage of the bulb. Allicin is deactivated when exposed to heat, such as in cooking.
Caprylic Acid
Caprylic acid is considered a natural anti-fungal agent and is often prescribed in doses of 1,500 mg per day to help reduce yeast overgrowth, according to Complementary Medicine. It adds that refraining from eating foods high in refined sugars and carbohydrates, such as fruit juices, white flour and sugar products, may also be beneficial. Bread and cheese contain yeast and mold and should also be avoided.
References
- Creighton University Medical Center: Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Chronic Yeast Syndrome
- Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide: Health benefits of taking probiotics
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Lactobacillus Acidophilus
- MysticMedicine.com: Candidiasis Identification and Treatment; Dr. Ivan Harris-Janz; Nov. 2006
- Linus Pauling Institute: Garlic and Organosulfur Compounds
- Complementary Medicine: Chronic Candidiasis
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