Candida Or Yeast Overgrowth
Candida albicans is perhaps the most well known yeast to cause problems in the digestive tract and elsewhere in the body. However, there are many other types of yeast and other types of candida. Symptoms and treatment for all of them is similar so we will not differentiate between them here.
Causes
Use of antibiotics, the contraceptive pill, HRT or steroids, multiple pregnancies, diabetes, compromised immune function, compromised digestive function, high sugar and processed food intake, high alcohol intake and stress can all contribute to the development of a candida overgrowth.
Symptoms
A candida or yeast overgrowth can lead to:
- Abdominal bloating
- Gas
- Diarrhoea
- Constipation
- Belching
- Digestive discomfort or pain
- Fatigue
- Foggy head, lack of concentration and poor memory
- Mood swings, depression and anxiety
- Fungal infections such as athletes foot and ringworm
- Muscle and join aches and pains
- Recurrent thrush, vaginitis and increased vaginal secretions
- Bad breath, coated tongue, ulcers and sores in the mouth
- Cravings for sweet or yeasted foods, including bread and alcohol
- Decreased libido
- Bladder and kidney infections
- Menstrual problems
- Dry itchy skin
- Chronic sinus problems
- Sensitivity to perfumes, chemical, fumes and other odours
- Food sensitivities
- Acne
- Frequent colds and infections
- Chilliness/cold hands and feet
Diagnosis
The confirmation of a candida diagnosis is usually done under the supervision of a practitioner using a symptom questionnaire, client history and sometimes blood and saliva tests.
Treatment
A combination of avoiding sugar, refined foods, alcohol and fermented foods with a regime of herbs and probiotics is generally needed to deal with a yeast overgrowth. See newsletter on candida for more information.