Candida overgrowth in the body is often referred to as “The Silent Epidemic” because it’s believed to infect a significant portion of the population, yet most people are undiagnosed. Recently, Candida has come into mainstream focus as reports suggest the problem is worsening. For example, certain strains of Candida mutate into more virulent forms that are immune to conventional anti-fungal treatments.
Besides, research into the human microbiome field has shifted the view of conventional medicine to emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy gut ecosystem with pre and probiotics, a healthy diet, and more. Alternative and integrative practitioners, on the other hand, have long known that the imbalance of microorganisms in the body, including the overgrowth of fungus, is a driving factor in numerous chronic health problems: fatigue, digestive symptoms, skin conditions, allergies, cognitive impairment, joint pain, chronic sinusitis, headaches, and more.
Candida explained
Candida is a pathogenic yeast organism that is normally present in low numbers in the colon and the vagina. It’s considered an “opportunistic infection” in the sense that it takes advantage of imbalances in the body to overgrow and dominate the gut. Most women are familiar with symptoms of a yeast infection occurring in the vagina, which happens when the sensitive balance of beneficial bacteria is disrupted, usually by medications or unhealthy dietary patterns. Antibiotics are the leading offender, along with steroids and birth control pills. The predominance of sugar, white flour, and other processed grains and foods in the standard American diet provide plenty of food for the yeast to thrive.
As Candida overgrowth becomes chronic, a domino effect occurs. Inflammation in the digestive tract leads to disruption of digestion and causes the intestinal wall to become more permeable, allowing larger food particles to move into the bloodstream and lymphatic system. These larger-than-usual molecules trigger an immune system reaction, causing more inflammation in an attempt to rid the body of a potential offender. And that’s when you can start to experience sensitivity to certain foods.
In addition, Candida organisms produce toxic chemicals of their own, including aldehydes (similar to formaldehyde), that travel into the bloodstream and affect multiple body systems, including the brain. This toxic process causes brain fog, inability to concentrate, etc. If the pattern is allowed to continue, the symptoms can intensify, and the entire body is affected by the imbalance that originated in the digestive tract.
Candida and biofilm
Candida stubbornly resists treatment. However, the latest research has given us an important clue that may explain this, as well as offer solutions. Candida is a biofilm-producing organism. Biofilm is a protective matrix excreted by certain organisms to protect their community from harm, and it works very effectively to keep antifungal herbs and medications from penetrating and killing the Candida. Special enzyme formulations that break up biofilm are now available to add to an anti-Candida regimen, greatly increasing the effectiveness of treatments.
Treatment
Treatment for Candida overgrowth involves a multi-layered approach. Here are some of the methods:
- Reduce the concentration of yeast to normal levels using dietary changes.
- Use herbal and, if needed, pharmaceutical antifungals.
- Use specific enzymes to address biofilm.
- Replenish beneficial intestinal bacteria using high-dose probiotics.
- Support healthy digestion and assimilation using digestive enzymes, herbs, and amino acids.
- Support immune function using vitamins, minerals, herbs, and medicinal mushrooms.
- Heavy metal testing and detoxification.
Diet
There are many anti-Candida diets, and some are stricter than others. The basic goal of the diet is to reduce or eliminate simple carbohydrates that provide food for the yeast. Avoidance of all processed grains, white rice, dairy, fruits (except lemons, limes, and unsweetened cranberry), and any foods over 55 on the glycemic index is optimal. An elimination diet is also helpful to try.
Yeast reduction
It’s essential to follow a supplement program that includes natural antifungals such as black walnut extract, olive leaf extract, burdock root, oregano oil, garlic extract, honokiol, coconut oil, and neem. However, depending on the severity of symptoms, a pharmaceutical antifungal may also be necessary.
Replenishing Beneficial Bacteria
Restoring the dynamic healthy balance of bacteria in the intestine is a pivotal part of any anti-Candida treatment plan. Look for a high-quality probiotic as well as a prebiotic formula, which helps provide nutrients for good bacteria to flourish. A high-fiber diet also provides a foundation for healthy bacteria.
Prevention
Once balance has been restored, it’s important to stay on a maintenance program that helps keep your system strong. A low-glycemic diet helps stabilize blood sugar and provides nutrients to maintain healthy digestive flora. Avoidance of antibiotics as much as possible is a must for prevention of Candida overgrowth. We can reap the benefits on every level by adopting healthy diets and lifestyle patterns. A primary factor is paying attention to our inner ecology and living in ecological balance both “inside” and “outside.”