The Effects Of Candida Diet On Depression

Normal amounts of the yeast-like fungus called candida in your mouth, stomach and vagina does not cause problems. Excessive candida, however, triggers infections known as candidiasis, or yeast infections. Potential symptoms include itchy, cracked skin, creamy white patches in your mouth and vaginal discharge. Although the effectiveness of the standard candida diet remains unknown, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the healthy foods it encourages can boost your wellness and, potentially, your moods.

Function

Although depression is not considered a candidiasis symptom by medical professionals, many natural health care practitioners name depressive moods as a common sign. Depressive moods and depression, the clinical disorder, however, are not one in the same. If you have depression, a healthy diet can support standard treatment, such as psychotherapy and medication, in managing your symptoms. If your emotional problems derive from candidiasis, dietary changes can serve as a useful alternative treatment form for your physical and emotional symptoms, according to Nicole Sundene, a licensed naturopathic medical doctor at Fountain Hills Naturopathic Medicine in Fountain Hills, Arizona.

Guidelines

The first step in treating candida overgrowth through diet involves determining and eliminating all foods to which you are allergic, according to Sundene. Food allergies believed to be associated with candida include dairy products, wheat, yeast, corn, eggs, citrus fruits and sugar. Foods you can eat freely while following the candida diet include non-starchy vegetables, such as leafy greens, carrots, bell peppers, broccoli and cabbage, protein-rich foods, such as poultry and fish, nuts and seeds and healthy fat sources, such as nuts, seeds and oils. You can also enjoy moderate amounts of unprocessed grains, such as barley, oats and rice, beans and lentils and fresh, organic fruits. The candida diet prohibits most processed foods, such as sweets, salty snacks, white bread and fast food, dairy products and added sugars, such as corn-syrup, table sugar and honey.

Effectiveness

Depressive symptoms related to candidiasis are said to improve once your body's candida levels are back to normal. Although research is lacking regarding the effects of a candida diet on depressive moods and disorders, a balanced, healthy diet can help prevent or reduce depression symptoms. Eating at proper time intervals guards against low moods associated with low blood sugar. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats have been linked with a reduced risk for depression, according to MayoClinic.com psychiatrist Dr. David Mrazek. Consuming too few omega-3 fatty acids, which are prevalent in cold-water fish, such as salmon, herring, mackerel and halibut, flaxseeds, walnuts and flaxseed oil, can trigger depression.

Risks

Because the effectiveness of the candida diet remains unknown, dietary changes may do little to help your physical or emotional wellness. And replacing doctor-recommended treatment for candidiasis or a depressive disorder can pose dangerous risks; both conditions can worsen and lead to complications, some of which are life threatening, according to the UMMC. A highly restrictive diet can also lead to depression, heightened stress and anxiety. To avoid these risks, consult a qualified health care professional before changing your diet.