Candida albicans is a fungus that is found in approximately 70% of people’s guts, according to Rice University. Generally, this opportunistic fungus does not cause any issues, as long as good bacteria and other microorganisms in the gut keep it under control. However, when the bacterial balance is disrupted, Candida can rapidly multiply and cause various health issues, ranging from mildly uncomfortable to potentially fatal.
Symptoms of Candida Overgrowth
Candida overgrowth can take several different forms, causing various problematic symptoms. For example, it can appear as creamy white sores in the mouth or cause burning, itching, and redness in intimate areas. It can also result in persistent, itchy skin rashes or even enter the bloodstream and cause more serious complications.
For some individuals, Candida impacts beyond the visible symptoms. Chronic Candida can cause brain fog, memory loss, constipation, diarrhea, joint pain, insomnia, and headaches, often leading to misdiagnoses and resulting in further suffering.
Candida and Mental Health
Emerging science indicates that Candida infection might play a role in mental health disorders. Johns Hopkins University researchers found that men with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder had a higher likelihood of experiencing Candida infection. Given that more than 50% of the population has had a Candida infection, this is a concerning hypothesis.
The study found that women with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia and a history of Candida infections performed worse on standard memory tests compared to women without a history of Candida infection. Thus, it appears that the common symptoms of chronic Candida infection, such as brain fog, memory loss, and poor concentration, could contribute to the development of mental health issues.
Preventing Candida Overgrowth
To protect your mental faculties and avoid the uncomfortable symptoms that Candida can cause, consider making dietary changes. Dr. Isaac Eliaz recommends eliminating simple carbohydrates, since they provide sustenance for the fungus. Optimal choices include avoiding processed grains, dairy products, white rice, fruits (except unsweetened cranberries, lemons, and limes), and any foods with a glycemic index value over 55. Although most fruits are beneficial for overall health, Candida thrives on their naturally-occurring sugars.
If a strict diet isn’t practical for you, consider trying one of the numerous natural anti-fungal products available on the market. Dr. Eliaz also recommends supplementing with anti-fungal substances like coconut oil. A study assessed the susceptibility of 52 Candida isolates to coconut oil and fluconazole (a common antifungal medication). The researchers concluded that coconut oil should be used for fungal infection treatment due to the emergence of drug-resistant Candida species.
Other recommended natural remedies for Candida include olive leaf extract, aloe vera, oregano oil, caprylic acid, pau d’arco, turmeric, propolis, pomegranate, tea tree oil, garlic, and ginger. By making dietary adjustments and incorporating natural antifungal remedies, you can help keep Candida in check and protect your mental and physical health.
