Friday, February 11, 2011

Candida Albicans

Once deemed an insignificant component to the state of our health, Candida Albicans has developed more and more recognition over the past twenty years by the medical community for the debilitating consequences this condition can have on our health.  Candida Albicans, commonly referred to as Candida, is a form of yeast that is a normal part of the hundreds of different types of microorganisms that reside in our digestive tract.  Candidiasis is a fungal infection that develops as a result of yeast overgrowth.  Candida infections are commonly caused by use of antibiotics, birth control pills, use of steroid medications and the overconsumption of sugar.  Candida can be seen in the form of a vaginal yeast infection, thrush or fungus in the nail beds but Candida can also over-colonize in the digestive tract causing havoc throughout the body.  Symptoms can range from fatigue, headache, stomach and intestinal disturbances as well as disorders of the immune, endocrine and nervous systems.   Candida produces toxins in the intestinal tract which can irritate the intestinal lining and can create permeability or leaky gut syndrome.  Leaky gut syndrome allows macromolecules of undigested food to leak into the bloodstream which can lead to food sensitivities and allergic responses.

 Candida Albicans can develop into a chronic condition that can easily go undiagnosed while causing a wide range of symptoms as a result  of dysbiosis or an imbalance of intestinal flora. Candida can be difficult to overcome.  Many people struggle with poor results as they attempt to conquer Candida.  There are prescription medications that are available but it is widely recognized that making appropriate dietary changes will assist in reversing the condition.  


Candida thrives on sugar and an acidic environment.  By minimizing sugar and focusing on an alkalinizing diet will help to create a less than optimum environment for the yeast to thrive.  Including probiotics in the diet is also a very important part to restoring the correct balance of intestinal flora.  Probiotics are live microorganisms that are found in yogurt, fermented foods and supplements. Probiotics are safe and will help to repair and maintain normal gut mucosa and stimulate enzyme production as well as protect against bacteria and bacterial toxins.  Fresh garlic also a good addition to the diet as it has antifungal and antimicrobial properties. Eating a diet with plenty of vegetables and lean proteins while minimizing sugar intake should help to eliminate the yeast overgrowth.  Exercise is also very important for oxygenation and to flush out toxins from the system.

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