Candida overgrowth is a relatively new problem, almost unheard of before WWII. Doctors began diagnosing candida overgrowth in increasing numbers paralleling the widespread use of antibiotics, according to the National Candida Center. Candida normally lives in your mouth and you will not experience symptoms unless an overgrowth occurs. Miso is traditional Japanese seasoning made by fermenting grain with salt and the fungus, kojikin. Eating miso will worsen a candida overgrowth.
Candida
Candida is a fungus normally found on skin or mucous membranes. If something changes the environment of your throat or mouth, like eating miso, candida can multiply. Overgrowth can occur in your mouth in an ailment commonly called thrush. Doctors call this medical condition oropharyngeal candidiasis, or OPC. Candida can grow in your esophagus in a condition called Candida esophagitis, or esophageal candidiasis. You cannot eat miso while you are experiencing symptoms from your diagnosed case of OPC or Candida esophagitis.
Symptoms
Eating miso may cause candida to overgrow, resulting in symptoms like painless white patches inside your mouth or throat. Other symptoms might include redness or soreness inside your mouth, or cracking at the corners of your mouth in a condition known as angular cheilitis. Symptoms of Candida esophagitis might include a sore throat or difficulty swallowing. Consult with your doctor before making any dietary changes to be certain your symptoms are not caused by another illness.
Considerations
You may be able to eat miso someday, providing you are able to overcome the medical condition that caused your immune system to grow weak. You may wish to avoid miso if you are using inhaled corticosteroids or wear dentures. OPC occurs more frequently and with more severity if you have a weakened immune system, especially if you are undergoing treatment for cancer or are battling AIDS. Avoid eating miso until your doctor recommends you resume a normal diet.
Resuming Miso
Consult with your physician or dietician before eating miso if you have a history of candida overgrowth associated with a weakened immune system. OPC and Candida esophagitis can recur and even become resistant to treatment. Candida can even invade the bloodstream in a condition known as invasive candidiasis, infecting your blood before spreading it throughout your body. Candida blood infections are the third most common type of bloodstream infections in the Intensive Care units, according to the University of Houston. Ask you doctor how soon you may return to eating miso to avoid recurrent candida overgrowths or possible invasive candidiasis.
