Introduction

Candida is a yeast that is always present in the body. ¹  This fungus only becomes a problem when the body is not strong enough to control it.  Furthermore, the clinical terms “candida” or “yeast syndrome” have been used to describe a set of symptoms associated with any number of pathogenic organisms.  In other words, the infection itself may not necessarily be Candida Albicans.  Your doctor can run tests to determine the exact cause of the infection.

Causes of candida

The main cause of candida is simply a body that is weakened or out of balance.  Remember that a healthy body is able to regulate candida as well as keep out other pathogens.  However, once these microbes get out of control, then the problems really begin.

Long-term use of antibiotics can cause candida because antibiotics kill all microbes.  They do not discriminate between friendly bacteria and pathogens.  The friendly bacteria in our bodies actually help to regulate candida and other pathogens.

Eating a diet high in carbohydrates and simple sugars is like adding fuel to the fire when it comes to candida and other pathogenic infections. ²  Stress also makes any infection worse, simply because the body must focus on handling the stress, and not on removing the infection.

Symptoms of candida

The list of symptoms associated with candida is very long.  It seems that the most common problems associated with candida and other pathogenic infections are digestive problems: flatulence (excessive gas), constipation and upset stomach.  In addition, here is a short list of general symptoms to look for: ³

• Frequent stomach pains and digestion problems
• Skin problems (skin infections, eczema, psoriasis, acne)
• Foggy brain / Trouble concentrating
• Constant tiredness and exhaustion
• Anxiety
• Mood swings
• Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Anger outbursts
• Irritability
• Headaches
• Intense cravings for sugars, sweets, and breads
• Itchy skin

Leaky gut syndrome and chronic candida

Leaky gut syndrome is a condition where the intestinal lining becomes weakened and more permeable, allowing undigested nutrients and toxins to enter the body.  This process invokes an autoimmune reaction. ⁴  It has been said that candida can cause leaky gut and that leaky gut can cause candida.  Either way this can be a vicious cycle.  Getting to the source or root cause of your problems is always best.

Mercury toxicity, leaky gut and candida

One theory on the cause of leaky gut (or a chronic gut wall infection) involves mercury toxicity.  Dental amalgams (fillings for cavities) contain substantial amounts of mercury, which settles in various parts of the body. ⁵  The burden of mercury toxicity, along with a poor diet and lifestyle, can create leaky gut syndrome. ⁵  Removal of the mercury and changes in diet and lifestyle are necessary to correct this problem.

Click here for more information mercury toxicity and leaky gut

Treatment of candida

The treatment of candida can range from simple to very complex depending on the individual and the severity of the infection.  People that do not have chronic or long-term candida will probably respond better to treatment.  Others with long-term candida infections will need to dig deeper to find the root cause of their problems.  Potential problems can include: parasites, viruses, mineral imbalances (and deficiencies), mercury toxicity and others.

Finally, here are some general rules to follow for eliminating and controlling candida.  We always recommend that you perform a candida cleansing program under the supervision of a doctor.

1. Cut back on carbohydrates - Carbohydrates (especially refined carbs) feed candida and other pathogens.  Cut back on high carbohydrate foods, and pay attention to which carbohydrate foods aggravate your symptoms.
2. Take probiotics - Eat probiotic foods such as: sauerkraut, kombucha or kefir; or take a probiotic supplement.  This will help re-establish the population of friendly bacteria in the gut.
3. Eat plenty of low carbohydrate vegetables and quality protein to help your body heal.
4. Get plenty of rest.
5. Drink at least eight 8 oz. glasses of pure water daily.
6. Exercise regularly.

Candida cleansing and the Herxheimer Reaction

If you start a program to eliminate candida and detoxify your body, you may feel worse before you feel better.  This is known as the Herxheimer Reaction.  It should pass as you continue cleansing.  Remember to get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids.  If the Herxheimer Reaction does not pass, you might want to consult your doctor, and check for additional underlying problems that may be causing the candida to persist.

Sources:

1. Yeast Infections.  MedlinePlus.  http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/yeastinfections.html
2. Candida Causes.  http://www.candidasymptoms.net/candida-causes.php
3. Candida Symptoms, How To Cure Them.  http://www.candidasymptoms.net/
4. Q & A Library: What is Leaky Gut?  Weil: Andrew Weil, M.D.  http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/id/QAA361058
5. Mercury Toxicity, Gut Wall Infection, and Fatigue.  Ron Kennedy, M.D.  The Doctors’ Medical Library.  http://www.medical-library.net/content/view/149/41/