“Candidiasis” is an overgrowth of a yeast Candida albicans, which is part of the regular flora (bacteria) in the digestive tract. It is commonly called yeast infection.
A common misconception is that yeast infections solely plague women. In truth, men can develop this condition, especially those who are uncircumcised. Babies and older adults can experience thrush, which is a fungal infection of the mouth, evidenced by white patches.
Candida Causes - Candidiasis Causes
Candida occurs naturally on the skin, as well as mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts. People with compromised immune systems are most susceptible to Candida overgrowth.
Antibiotics are the biggest culprits for Candida. They do their job by killing unwanted bacteria; unfortunately antibiotics also kill good bacteria in the digestive tract and vaginal area.
Yeast is attracted to sugar! Additionally, sugar suppresses the immune system. Carbohydrates are the perfect food for yeast and may contribute to recurring episodes of symptoms.
Other factors favoring yeast development are: environmental chemicals like pesticides, allergies, diabetes and trauma, such as surgery.
When toxic waste matter in the colon becomes extreme, it can enter the bloodstream. In people with damaged immune systems, untreated “Candidiasis” could cause death.
Symptoms of Candidiasis
When Candida invades the physical body, it progresses systematically.
1. The digestive tract gets out-of-balance. Common symptoms that manifest are: gas, bloating, anal itching, heartburn, vaginitis, food allergies and fatigue. If left untreated, Candida can set up infection in other areas and cause jock itch, athlete’s foot, skin and nail fungus.
2. Cells attach to mucous membrane surfaces and colonize, like mold on bread. Other symptoms appear such as: thrush, diarrhea and can result in asthma, lupus, kidney stones or sinusitis. The person becomes more allergic and chemically sensitive causing reactions such as headache, nausea, hives, hay fever or joint pain.
3. At this point, the person could experience mental symptoms like irritability, confusion, a spacey feeling and lethargy.
4. Finally the body is symptomatic of organ and hormone dysfunction. Adrenal failure and hypothyroidism may occur.
Relevant Factors of Candidiasis
The modern lifestyle is the utmost contributing factor to Candidiasis. Women who take birth control pills; men or women who consume large amounts of refined carbohydrates or are consistent antibiotic users are candidates for Candida overgrowth. Stress, fast food and alcohol are also relevant factors.
Healthy people do not get yeast overgrowth. Something feeds it or suppresses lactobacillus contributing to body imbalance and triggering a “Candida related disease”.
Candida (Candidiasis) Treatment Options
People who suspect Candida overgrowth should consult their doctor for a clinical evaluation. Traditional medical practitioners usually prescribe drugs such as nystatin or diflucan.
For long-term improvement and prevention, a holistic approach will address underlying factors that promote Candida overgrowth. Many sufferers swear by the colonic irrigation.
During colonic irrigation, the therapist massages the person’s stomach and inserts sterile tubing into the rectum. Warm water flows into the colon area and expels toxic fecal matter. Reportedly, the treatment does not cause undue discomfort. Irrigation is repeated on alternate days for a week.
A less radical alternative is a “Candida diet“. Here, one would feed the physical body, but not the yeast by eliminating sugar, even natural sugars found in fruits. Avoid refined flours. Consume large amounts of fresh vegetables. Eat monounsaturated fats and complex carbohydrates.
It is difficult to treat Candidiasis, but not impossible with options provided and lifestyle change.
