The Truth about Candida Overgrowth
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In reality, very few cases of Candida overgrowth are strictly a Candida problem. Candida in and of itself is harmless. In fact, we can’t sustain life without it in our intestinal tract, and it helps protect us by consuming debris from low quality processed food and toxins. When it populates, it does so to support your body and fight infection, but because it's presence is easily detectable, it is often blamed as a scapegoat.
Candida is a type of yeast that naturally occurs in the human body, typically in small amounts in the mouth, gut, and skin. However, when the balance of microorganisms in the body is disrupted, Candida can overgrow, leading to a range of health issues.
Candida as a Cofactor
Candida can serve as a warning sign as Candida can also co-occur with conditions such as Lyme disease, shingles, Epstein-Barr virus, vaginal strep, diabetes, E. coli and more. Thus, a large build-up of Candida can serve as a warning sign that something else in your body requires attention and can lead to issues.
Candida overgrowth often occurs as a cofactor to other bacterial or viral infections. When the immune system is weakened by another infection, Candida can take advantage of the opportunity to proliferate.
Health Issues Associated with Candida Overgrowth
Candida overgrowth can manifest in various ways, affecting different parts of the body:
- Oral thrush: White patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, or throat.
- Vaginal yeast infections: Itching, burning, and discharge in the vaginal area.
- Skin infections: Rashes, itching, and redness on the skin.
- Digestive issues: Bloating, gas, constipation, or diarrhea.
- Fatigue and brain fog: Persistent tiredness and difficulty concentrating.
- Weakened immune system: Frequent infections and slow wound healing.
Herbal Allies for Candida Control
Several herbs have demonstrated antifungal properties and can be valuable allies in combating Candida overgrowth:
It is one of the best natural defences. It’s highly effective in combatting the underlying viral and bacterial infections to inhibit candida overgrowth
Caprylic Acid:
Caprylic acid is a fatty acid found in coconut oil that can disrupt Candida cell membranes, leading to their destruction.
Oregano Oil:
Oregano oil is a powerful antifungal agent that can help combat Candida overgrowth.
Barberry:
Contains Berberine which is a compound found in several herbs, including goldenseal and barberry, that has antifungal and immune-boosting properties.
Garlic:
Garlic contains allicin, a compound with antifungal and antibacterial properties.
Managing your diet
You’ve probably been told to avoid sugar, which is true for refined or processed sugar but the natural fructose in fruit is bonded with beneficial compounds, that help kill pathogens that are likely responsible for your increased Candida. In an attempt to avoid sugar, many people opt for a high fat diet, the issue is excess protein and fat in the gut provides a feeding ground for bacteria. So a fruit rich low fat diet is best