Candida overgrowth

As foreign as Candida sounds, it’s actually not foreign to your body at all. Candida is a type of yeast that can be found naturally in your body. You know the good bacteria in your gut that everyone tells you about? Candida forms a part of that and a few other places too. It’s when Candida grows and begins overpopulating your digestive system that this little fungus starts doing damage to your organs, kidneys and even the brain. The most common infection being Candida Albicans.

Do I have Candida?

Although it’s known to be a silent condition due to the number of symptoms that could be closely related to other illnesses or conditions, there are a few signs that might seem less “typical” that you should look out for:

• An increased need to urinate.
• A burning sensation when urinating.
• Presence of a white creamy substance on the tongue or pallet.
• Abdominal discomfort, bloating.
• Itching and redness around the genitals.

There are other symptoms as previously mentioned that might resemble something else, those being strong sugar cravings, brain fog, skin issues and constipation. However, coupled with the above list of symptoms, it’s likely you might have Candida overgrowth.

How did I get it?

Candida is triggered when there’s an imbalance of PH in the gut. This is typically caused by lifestyle and diet, as with most things. However, there are a few top causes that you might be able to identify with.

1. A Weakened Immune System

A weakened immune system means your PH levels aren’t ideal and that good bacteria you’re meant to have in your gut is missing.

2. A High Sugar Diet

Newsflash! Yeast is alive, and to survive, it feeds off of sugar. Take note that refined sugar is your enemy, as well as alcohol. They will very quickly suppress your immunity and deplete your healthy gut bacteria.

3. Antibiotic Abuse

Every time you pop an antibiotic, you’re clearing your immune system’s memory. Even though antibiotics might have their place, it doesn’t only go after the bad bacteria, it goes after ALL bacteria. So, goodbye healthy bacteria! Hello Candida overgrowth!

Did you know?

1. Very tight underwear can trigger Candida due to the heat caused.  Heat and moisture is the ideal breeding ground for Candida.
2. Diabetics are more at risk due to elevated sugar levels which are a risk.
3. Candida can be contagious.
4. Babies can develop it from unsterilized bottles or not changing nappies frequently enough.
5. If you take your antibiotic with yoghurt, you can avoid the growth of Candida.

How do I get rid of it?

To rid yourself of your undesirable fungal infection, start by cutting out acidic foods, foods high in sugar and carbs and as sad as that sounds, your gut will thank you. Food items like garlic, oregano, ginger root and coconut oil are excellent Candida killers and following the Candida diet is recommended. You’ll need an antifungal gel, cream or tablet to start getting to work on clearing the infection. Consider natural products when supporting your gut, such as coriander oil, black walnut, a quality probiotic and bentonite clay. You can get these from any natural supplement shop or consult a Naturopath if you’re still unsure.