What is Gluten?

Gluten is a protein composite of glutelin and gliadin, and is found in foods made from certain grains like wheat, rye and barley. Foods such as bread, cakes, biscuits, bagels, pizza, pastry, imitation meats, ice-cream, ketchup, to name just a few contain gluten. People with celiac disease who have a gluten intolerance can find it hard to avoid all foods with gluten in because labeling is not always clear.

Symptoms of gluten intolerance

Symptoms of gluten intolerance can be very similar to candida overgrowth, another way candida and gluten are connected. It used to be that sensitivity to gluten was an uncommon problem, but recently it is thought it may be as common as affecting 40% of Americans. Symptoms include;

• Fatigue – also a candida overgrowth symptom
• Weakness – also a candida overgrowth symptom
• Some experience dizziness – also a candida overgrowth symptom
• Headaches – also a candida overgrowth symptom
• Flu like symptoms – also a candida overgrowth symptom
• Joint and muscle pain – also a candida overgrowth symptom
• Allergies – also a candida overgrowth symptom
• Irritability – also a candida overgrowth symptom
• Abdominal pain – also a candida overgrowth symptom
• Constipation or diarrhea – also a candida overgrowth symptom
• Malnourishment – also a candida overgrowth symptom

However while there are symptoms that candida and gluten intolerance have in common each one also has its own individual symptoms also.

Candida and gluten summary

The cell wall of candida albicans contains an amino acid called Hyphal wall protein-1 which is how candida can attach itself to the intestines. This Hwp-1 is very similar to the proteins that make up gluten. Therefore the body’s immune system can respond to gluten as it does to candida, by attacking it. This is called an autoimmune response and how autoimmune diseases like celiac disease can occur. The increase in the use of antibiotics has seen a rise in candida problems and has triggered allergic reactions such as to gluten. There is no treatment for gluten sensitivity or intolerance, sufferers have to follow an anti-gluten diet in order to avoid triggering symptoms. However a quick response to candida overgrowth may help avoid developing this problem.

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is when the cartilage the lines the ends of our bones has been damaged leading the bones to rub against each other. This leads to the bones being damaged and symptoms such as swelling and pain. There are several things that can cause arthritis including a systemic candida infection.

Candida Arthritis caused by invasive candida

Candida arthritis is not at all common, just because you have arthritis and candida does not mean they are linked, there are only specific circumstances in the case of septic arthritis caused by candida. There are two ways it can occur, a patient in hospital may develop candidemia but go untreated and the candida arthritis develops later, or in some cases despite the candidemia being recognized and treated appropriately, candida arthritis has still occurred. It actually affects children more than adults, about a third of babies that have neonatal candidiasis also have bone or joint problems too i.e candida arthritis.

Who is at risk

Candida arthritis risk groups include the following;

• Babies are the highest at risk of candida arthritis or/and candida osteomyelitis. In one review it concluded that at least 85% of the cases were in babies 6 months or younger
• Patients receiving organ transplants, having abdominal surgery or those with hematological disorders
• Urinary tract manipulation patients
• Patients that have had intra-articular injections
• Drug users that take brown heroin intravenously

In most cases Candida albicans are responsible but there are cases of candida tropicalis, candida krusei, candida glabrata, candida zeylanoides and candida parapsilosis.

Symptoms of Candida Arthritis

• Pain in the joints
• Tenderness
• In babies the affected limbs may have abnormal positioning
• Warmth
• Swelling

Usually the areas affected are the knees, but after it can also affect the hips, ankles and shoulders. In adults there is often a delay in presentation of candida arthritis after having candidemia, but in babies it happens together.

Treating candida arthritis

Systemic treatment and topical treatment is usually called for when treating candida arthritis. Anti-fungal treatment to treat the candida such as amphotericin B, or one of the azoles such as ketoconazole or fluconazole. Drug choice depends on the species of candida and the patient’s medical history. If there is an infected prosthetic joint involved this usually has to be removed and replaced with a new prosthesis. Local treatment involves synovial aspiration and if these options fail a synovectomy may be considered which is a surgical operation that removes part or all of the synovial membrane of the affected joint.

How does a rectal yeast infection develop?

There are a couple of ways a rectal yeast infection can come about, one is if you have a vaginal yeast infection it can spread to the rectal area leading to a rectal yeast infection also. Another way it can happen is if you have a problem with overgrowth in your bowels then this can also progress to the rectal area. It can also be triggered by itself in that region by things such as wearing damp clothes for longer than necessary, not drying yourself properly after bathing, eating spicy foods, not washing regularly there, wearing clothing that does not allow the skin to breath such as synthetic fibers, having regular diarrhea or constipation, using perfumed products there, or a having a diet that is generally poor and high in sugars.

Treating a rectal yeast infection

First of all identify the root cause and make changes if possible. If your underwear is synthetic switch to cotton, if you eat a lot of curry, cut back! If you have a diet high in sugars, lower it, eat more fresh foods especially leafy greens, and try switching to organic so that you are not consuming chemicals. Other things you should try to include are whole grains rather than refined foods and to get the probiotics needed to help with your internal candida eat plain yogurt, fermented cabbage, or kefir. You can also look for foods that will help soften the stools so that there is less irritation and it is lubricated, prunes or prune juice, unrefined cold pressed flax seed oil or flax seed itself. Read the labels carefully on the soaps and detergents you use and switch clothing that is looser. Finally you may want to consider getting moist wipes or using a cloth dampened with warm water to wipe yourself rather than toilet paper.

Treatment can include;

• Anti-fungal creams either from the pharmacy or prescribed
• Aloe vera gel
• Tea tree oil or other essential oils
• Probiotic supplements
• Detoxification
• Herbal anti-fungal treatments such as Pau D’arco

Candidiasis or a mouth yeast infection. However within an oral candidiasis there are several main types, Acute atrophic candidiasis, Median rhomboid glossitis, Chronic hyperplastic candidiasis, Chronic atrophic candidiasis, Angular cheilitis, Chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis and the area we are exploring today, Acute pseudomembranous candidiasis.

In actual fact candida is already present in around 50% of people’s mouths and causes no problems unless the numbers increase. Factors that can lead to this form of yeast infection include age, the young and old are more prone, poor health and a weak immune system, medications that cause dry mouth, wearing dentures, being a smoker, deficiency in nutrients, or an injury. Most often the candida causing the problem is candida albicans but others can also be pathogenic, candida tropicalis for example. In patients that are extremely immunocompromised Candida krusei can be the problem and in patients who have gotten pseudomembranous candidiasis after head and neck radiation treatment for cancer, candida glabrata is emerging.

Symptoms of acute pseudomembranous candidiasis

• Raised white patches on the tongue, on the gums and inside the mouth
• A raw redness under the white patches that bleeds
• Pain
• Discomfort
• Difficulty eating
• Burning feeling
• Mucosa areas around the white patches are red and swollen

Treating pseudomembranous candidiasis

Treatment involves knowing and dealing with the root cause of the candida overgrowth and choosing a course of anti-fungal medication. If the cause is antibiotics, or an underlying condition, or a medication you are taking, there are things that can be done to help. For example if you use an inhaler drink some water after to avoid the dry mouth, if possible, discontinue taking the broad spectrum antibiotics until the candida is under control. There are now a number of drugs that can be used; clotrimazole, nystatin, miconazole, amphotericin B, ketoconazole and gentian violet. For patients with HIV who get an oral yeast infection fluconazole is often effective. Choice of treatment depends on whether a person is allergic to certain drugs, their current health, the candida species that is responsible for the infection as some have a resistance to certain treatments.

How a yeast infection and rhino-sinusitis are linked

Candida is on most humans and can affect anywhere in the body including the nose and sinuses. Overgrowth can allow the candida to become pathogenic and there are a number of things that can cause this, stress, medications, antibiotics, hormonal imbalance, nose sprays and so on. It is also possible for the candida to spread from the gastrointestinal tract where it is already causing further problems with the immune system, as the body is not getting the nutrients it needs to stay healthy. There have been studies that confirm the link between a yeast infection and rhino-sinusitis but now conventional medicine needs to catch up, as in the past there have been problems with incorrect treatments of anti-histamines and antibiotics both of which actually worsen the condition if it is a fungal matter.

Symptoms

As well as other possible yeast infection symptoms such as a vaginal, or eye infection, and candida overgrowth symptoms there are specific symptoms to sinusitis which include;

• Fever
• Congestion
• A feeling of pressure on your face around your nose and eyes
• Headaches
• A dripping nose
• Unable to smell or taste much
• A cough

Treatment

There is the option of medicated anti-fungal treatment or if you prefer there are alternative options. For example some people have had success with acupuncture, inhaling oil vapors using essential oils like lavender or rosemary, irrigating the sinuses with salt water or a herbal solution and to relieve the pressure using hot and cold compresses.

Male candida causes

As you may have notice the candida albicans penis infection is referred to as many things, male yeast infection, penile or penis yeast infection, candida penile infection, male candida and so on. They are all names for the same condition, when the penis is affected by the overgrowth of candida albicans, a fungus that lives on the body already. Because yeast infections are caused by candida growing to numbers that are too high for the body to handle rather than something you ‘catch’, it is actually very unlikely for a man to get a yeast infection if the female has one. However it is possible, and so if you want to avoid the risks, make sure to use a condom during sex or abstain until she has successfully treated it. In the young wet diapers can be a cause, but in general causes for this form are the same as for women, poor diet, stress, wet clothing, antibiotics and so on. Men who still have their foreskin are more likely to get a yeast infection than those without.

Candida albicans penis infection on the glans

The glans is the head of the penis and when a yeast infection manifests there it is called Balanitis. Symptoms will therefore include inflammation in that area, redness, possibly a liquid discharge, itching, pain and sometimes blisters. About 11% of men have this condition and 3% of boys wearing diapers get a yeast infection at some point.

General penile yeast infection symptoms

• Burning sensation
• Discomfort or unable to have intercourse
• Symptoms are worse after intercourse
• An itching rash
• Redness

Treating a candida albicans penis infection

There are creams that are anti-fungal that can be applied, in fact the treatments advertised for vaginal yeast infections can be used for male too, apart from the vaginal suppository forms of course! Your doctor may prescribe something if you need a stronger medication. You may need to change your diet habits too as many men who get yeast infections find the root cause is a poor diet. Restrict foods full of sugar, limit junk, processed and refined foods, limit also alcohol and caffeine.

A lot of people find the diet too hard to follow, or when the experience the die-off caused by rapidly dying yeast they think it is not working and give it up. Some too find it difficult when a sweet craving sets in and there is nothing to turn to, as some candida diets do not even allow fruit. Therefore for those of you with a sweet tooth who want to succeed at this diet and clear up the candida, but need something sweet now and then, here are some ideas that are candida diet friendly. Candida diet recipes for desserts are not what you may be used to, and may take getting used to. Remember though a candida diet is not for life!

Replace the sugar with sweeteners

As mentioned the core to a candida diet is giving up sugar, as the candida feeds on it and grows more. There are artificial sweeteners you can try but you still need to take care as even some of these need to be avoided, and others can cause side effects. Stevia is one sweetener that most candida sufferers seem able to eat without causing problems with the candida or other health issues. It is a lot sweeter than sugar so if you are trying to find your own substitutes for your own recipes, do not replace 1 teaspoon of sugar with 1 teaspoon of Stevia. Remember that candida diet recipes for desserts should not include the use of white flour, some fruits, sugar, any kind of syrups, some nuts and more! There are more details on what you can and cannot eat on a candida diet on other articles on this site.

Candida diet recipes for desserts or a sweet tooth!

Mock applesauce

Spaghetti squash

Cinnamon

Stevia

Ginger (optional)

Bake the squash then puree the ingredients together.

Coconut Carob Sweets

One Tablespoon of natural almond butter

Two teaspoons of sifted carob powder

One tablespoon of sesame paste

A pinch of salt

Eight to ten stevia liquid drops

2 teaspoon of chia seeds finely ground

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

A quarter cup of dried unsweetened shredded coconut

1 tablespoon hemp seeds or nuts

Blend the almond butter, carob powder, chia, sesame paste, and salt until smooth then add in the vanilla and the stevia and blend further. Stir in the hemp seeds or nuts and the coconut until distributed evenly through the paste. Scoop into balls using a teaspoon and put into the fridge to firm up for at least 20 minutes.

No bake tarts

Crust

1 ½ cups dried shredded unsweetened coconut

¾ cup of either walnuts, macadamia nuts or hazelnuts

¼ teaspoon of sea salt

3 tablespoons almond butter

Filling

¾ cup avocado

3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice

Stevia

2 teaspoons ground chia seeds

Zest of a lime

Lightly grease a pan or several individual pans or line with parchment. In a bowl mix together the crust ingredients and press as the base into the pan. Then add the filling ingredients into the bowl and blend until smooth. Spoon it into the crusts and freeze for 2 hours or more until firm. Garnish with the zest 15 minutes before serving.

Peanut butter crust less pie

Peanut butter sugar free

Cream cheese

Whipped heavy cream

Stevia

In a bowl cream together the peanut butter and cream cheese then fold in the cream. Add the stevia to taste and pour into the serving pan or bowl and put into the fridge until chilled.

Frozen Chocolate Pudding

1 pack of sugar free instant chocolate pudding

1 ½ cups of milk

1 cup whipping cream

Stevia

Make up the pudding adding stevia to sweeten and then freeze for four or more hours. Take out 1 hour before serving.

Berries and cream

Frozen or fresh berries

Heavy whipping cream

Stevia

Vanilla extract

Just pour some cream over the berries and add vanilla and stevia to taste.

Peanut butter smoothie

2 tablespoons of sugar free natural peanut butter

1 cup of whole milk

Plain yogurt

Heavy whipping cream

Ice cubes

Stevia

Blend the ingredients together. Add some unsweetened cocoa powder for a chocolaty smoothie.

Symptoms of a yeast infection

Yeast infection symptoms depend on where the infection is, but the most common place is the vagina. Vaginal yeast infection symptoms include;

• Itching
• Inflammation
• Soreness
• Discharge
• A yeasty odor
• Irritation
• Discomfort

So how long does a yeast infection last?

How long does a yeast infection last depends on a few things. First of all the severity of the infection; a mild infection is easier to treat and so will go away quicker than a more severe infection that is harder to treat. There is also how quickly you recognize or get diagnosed and therefore start treatment. The longer you wait then the longer the yeast infection will last! The effectiveness of the treatment affects the time making your choice important and last but not least your overall health will have an impact. If you have a weakened immune system then your body will struggle to fight the fungus and so it will drag on for longer.

Generally when you start a medicated treatment it will last between 7 to 14 days. Even if you take a 1 day 1 pill treatment this is just the length of treatment, not the length of the yeast infection, that 1 pill will still take 7 days to clear it up.

Get to the root cause

It is important as well that you make sure you do not over focus on the symptoms, as irritating as they are. Stopping the itching is not stopping the infection, and unless you work out why you had candida overgrowth, even if you treat it successfully, it can recur again and again until you stop the root cause. Look at things like diet, antibiotics, hormonal balance. For more on causes of yeast infections there are several useful articles on this site.

Candida

Around three quarters of women have problems with a candida albicans overgrowth at some point in their lives. While it is less common men too can suffer. Candida albicans lives in most of us already in small numbers controlled by good bacteria and our immune system so that it is harmless. But certain things can trigger it to multiply and grow becoming a pathogenic fungus that when internal can cause a large number of symptoms and health issues.

Nutritional yeast flakes

Nutritional yeast flakes are a supplement that are grown on molasses enriches with minerals and then pasteurized when it is read to be cultivated to kill the yeast. Nutritional yeast has 15 minerals and 18 amino acids and is especially important as a source of B12 for vegetarians. It helps regulate blood sugar so is also a supplement that can be of great benefit for diabetics.

Candida and Nutritional yeast flakes – Why you can have them

Basically the yeast in nutritional yeast flakes is dead so it cannot affect the candida in your body. When looking at candida diets it is live yeast you want to avoid. Just as there are good bacteria that work for you internally and help your immune system, and bad bacteria that cause you to be ill, there are good yeasts and bad yeasts. Just because a food or drink has yeast in it does not automatically mean it needs to be avoided if you have a candida overgrowth problem. Foods you should still avoid include breads, and alcohol like beer, as these not only have yeast in that you want to avoid, they also are full of sugar. On the other hand yeasts that play a role in the fermentation process that create good bacteria such as in kefir, or sauerkraut can be eaten as the yeast is killed off by the fermentation process. Inactive yeasts such as that of nutritional yeast flakes are safe.

What is tofu?

Tofu also known as bean curd is made from soy milk by coagulating it and then taking the curds that form and pressing them into blocks. There are actually various types of tofu, and it comes in both fresh and processed form. Originally from China it is now a popular food not just in Asian countries but across the world especially for vegetarians and vegans. It is an excellent source of protein if you do not eat meats and is low in calories and fat content. It can be used as a meat substitute and therefore can be used in an extremely large range of different recipes and cuisines.

Candida diet – tofu and everything else you can and cannot eat!

Diet can have a large impact on your candida numbers, one that is high in sugars, processed, junk and refined foods, fungi, alcohol and so on feeds candida. If you also factor in antibiotics that kill off the good bacteria that control candida numbers, you end up with a candida overgrowth problem. Going on a diet that starves the fungus alongside treatment and supplements is an effective way for many people to re-gain balance. A candida diet is very restrictive though and you need to be very strict with yourself, but it is not a forever diet, you can slowly re-introduce foods you have cut out though hopefully you will choose to stick to something healthier than you had before. Because the diet involves avoiding a lot of foods and because there are several versions of the diet there can sometimes arise questions about specific items like candida diet tofu queries.

Is tofu okay to eat?

It really depends on whose diet you are following but essentially as long as you avoid the processed forms of tofu that may contain sugars or other foods you want to avoid, then yes tofu is good to eat. Diet is really a personal thing – some people have to cut out all fruits for example, whereas others find there are some fruits they can keep, some say to cut out all yeast, whereas others say you can use nutritional yeast flakes. What might be easier for you to judge is cut out everything, then add one food you have doubts about, for example add to your candida diet tofu, and then see how your body responds. However if you have thyroid problems which can sometimes be linked to candida overgrowth, then you may need to talk to your doctor about eating tofu.

Symptoms – white spots on the inside of the mouth which can join together causing a substance that is sometimes compared to cottage cheese. It has a white, grey or yellowy color and below it the skin is red and raw. After antibiotics your mouth may feel sore and looks red. Corners of the mouth can get cracked and sore. In babies they may refuse to feed as a result of the pain.

Causes – there are a number of different causes of Thrush. A weakened immune system due to ill health may mean your body is unable to fight the yeast off. Antibiotics are another cause as they kill the good bacteria that normally control the yeast’s growth. Without the good bacteria the yeast multiplies and leads to an infection. Steroid tablets and too much rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash can also do this. If you have iron or folate deficiencies these can also lead to a mouth yeast infection. Chemotherapy treatments can also lower your usuall defences and leave you open to attack.

Treatments – garlic and calendula supplements are effective as they are anti-fungal and anti-bacterial. But you do need to look at what the root cause of the problem is and deal with that otherwise the infection will just keep returning. There are drops, gels and lozenges on the market that contain antifungal drugs like miconazole and nystatin that will give quick relief though again they do not deal with the root problem. Home remedies include yogurt, plain and live, which will not only offer some soothing relief but will also reintroduce good bacteria into your body to fight the overgrowth. Changes in diet may be needed for long term relief. Avoid sugars, carbohydrates, processed and junk foods as the yeast feeds on them.

3 months ago this case started to get a burning in his eyes and throat and on his tongue he had a white, thick milky layer. The doctor he went to about it said it was Thrush or Oral yeast infection and was caused by the steroid inhaler he was using.

In order to fight Candida he came off all medications apart from those he was taking for the Thrush itself and it seemed to work, he thought he’d got it all cleared up. But then he had to go on antibiotics, and high amounts of prednisone and this caused the candida to return, worse than before.

In an attempt to treat it this case has tried Sporanox, Diflucan (pill and liquid form), Mycelex Troches, Nystatin, and Nizoral. But the infection is not responding to any of them, making him extremely frustrated. Sometimes it will go away for a few days, only to return again. It has had a negative impact on his whole life and the doctor has not been any help either.

It is becoming a systemic infection getting into his lungs, which is a big concern. He is trying a combination of conventional treatments, Diflucan liquid with Nystatin. However he is now looking for a natural treatment because of the expense this has been, and how ineffective drug based treatments have been.

In fact that fungus is already present on your body but is living in small numbers, controlled by good bacteria. When that balance gets upset with the good bacteria being killed or immune system being weakened, and the fungus is able to overgrow an yeast infection is the result. With the diets people have today filled with processed and junk foods, refined and carbohydrates and worse, sugar, yeast and alcohol, the yeast infections can flourish because all of this feeds them.

Probiotics are a good way to beat it. These are the good bacteria found in the intestinal tract and you can get them as supplements or find them in foods like yogurt. In the probiotics are hydrogen peroxide which is what stops the candida from growing. Other foods that you can also eat for their benefit are onions, leeks, garlic, chicori, barley and artichokes.

There are prescription drugs that can be used to help with the symptoms, though it is important to note they do not treat the root cause and can cause side effects to occur. These are:

Itraconazole – (Sporanox is the brand name). Readily available on the market, dosage is 200 mg a day and takes 3 months to clear up the infection. Severe cases take 400mg a day. This medicine can cost as much as a thousand dollars for some patients and should be stored at room temperature. Not to be used by women who are nursing. Comes with side effects.

Fluconazole – the most commonly prescribed treatment for candida. A man made anti fungal that is taken orally or in rare severe cases intravenously. Has some small risks of side effects and will get rid of symptoms effectively.

Ketonazole – not to be used by nursing women or children. Its active ingredient is Nizoral and it is taken on an empty stomach. Comes in three forms, tablets, shampoo and cream. Should not be taken with anti acid drugs – wait two hours after taking an anti acid drug.

The yeast is always present in our bodies at small numbers controlled by the good bacteria. The negative impact of having yeast occurs when it has the opportunity to over grow. To successfully fight a recurring yeast infection problem a person needs to make lifestyle changes that includes changing what you consume and making sure you exercise regularly. Even just 5 minutes a day can make a difference. Really anything that gets you sweating as it is a great way to cleans the toxins out of your body, cycling, pilates, yoga etc. Keep hydrated of course and make sure your diet is well balanced. Also remember when starting any kind of new exercise regime talk to your doctor. Below are some exercise you can do that will help you reduce the chances of getting a yeast or candida infection.

Rebounding

This is a cellular exercise that requires a mini trampoline, on which you jump and do various exercise. It puts less stress on your joints and in less time you burn more calories without the soreness and tiredness that comes with other types of exercise. It also increases the white blood count in your body which means your immune system gets stronger. This then means you are more able to naturally fight off yeast infections.

This is a great exercise because almost anyone can do it, even if you are older or overweight, starting with low impact easy exercise and building up. You tone the body, burn calories and cleanse the lymphatic system. At first start with 5 minute sessions and then slowly build up to 20 minute ones a day. For people that are interested but are concerned about jumping unaided there are models that come with stability bars, to hold as you jump.

Aerobics

All exercise gets your heart pumping but aerobics in particular is good for this as this oxygenates the body. This in turn raises the pH level of your body and creates an environment the yeast cannot thrive in.

First of all make sure you clear out your kitchen cupboards and fridge of any foods that are no longer an option i.e junk, processed, refined, sugary foods. Do not leave a secret stash of candy or cookies anywhere! Also sit down and plan your meals, making it a 5 day rotation if you can so that you are less likely to opt for a take out or something quick but full of carbs. Finally pick a day to start it and don’t keep putting it off, stick to it.

For some people this is too hard too soon and if this is the case for you try making the changes slowly, for example 1 day in the first week, 2 days in the second week and so on. Until eventually you are doing it 7 days a week by the seventh week. Then you can introduce the supplements you might need and continue the diet for at least 4 months to get clear f the yeast, or as your normal permanent diet to be clear forever.

When thinking about the type of meals you should be planning for, you want organic chicken breasts (non organic can contain antibiotics) with brown rice and organic vegetables, perhaps a shrimp salad with lemon dressing (many salad dressing are not good for a candida diet so think about this carefully). There are cookbooks you can get and recipes online that will help you make meals that are for a yeast diet.

If like many people you are busy, working long hours, family to manage, remember to freeze meals so if you do not have the time one evening, you have something quick but still appropriate that you can eat.

By looking at these cases experiences other people will hopefully learn what to watch for and perhaps get themselves checked for Celiacs if they see similarities. Case A was having a lot of problem with recurring yeast infections. She was having severe migraines, and stomach problems also and so went to the doctors and underwent several medical tests, one of which was a biopsy test for Celiac’s.

Knowing that sugar feeds the yeast and can lead to an overgrowth and therefore an infection, Case A cut sugar out of her diet and along with her knowledge of how to manage Celiacs this has helped her to control the outbreaks of yeast infection she had been getting. Occasionally she feels like something sweet and she indulges only to later get a sore bladder, headache, itchy skin, diarrhea and sores in the mouth. Fruits also affected her because of the natural sugar in them.

Case B also was suffering from frequent yeast infections and was tested for Celiacs but came back negative. However Case B was allergic to many things including perfumes/fragrances, mold and dust mites. She learn from experience that going on a course of antibiotics would cause a yeast infection to flare up. Now she is learning to avoid scented products, soaps, as well as also cutting out the sugar in her diet.

This looks at eating right according to your blood type rather than making sweeping generalizations. Rather than focusing on one aliment or issue it is a concept that involves changing your diet and eating habits to improve your whole health and immune system, regardless of what symptoms or infection you may be suffering from.

People looking to change their diet in an attempt to fight candida ask many questions, how often do they have to eat fruit and vegetables, and how much? How do you know whether it has worked and the yeast is all gone? Is there a test you can do to tell? How many carbohydrates can I eat?

Most plans suggest cutting out fruits because of the natural sugars they contain. That also includes fruit juices and sweet vegetables as the yeast feeds off of sugar of any kind and will therefore continue to feed and grow. But ‘Eat Right for Your Type’ will help you get a plan more aimed at you and will help answer all of those questions and more.

There are also raw food plans that do not just focus on the problem of candida but are about having your whole system cleansed and flushed of toxins. Raw foods contain more nutrients than cooked ones which is fantastic for the immune system.

She was also having problems loosing weight and so went to see a Homeopathic doctor and it was she that diagnosed Candida. The patient was put on a candida diet and given some homeopathic preps which are relatively new having only been around for a two or so years. There were 4 that all had to be done in order. According to the doctor in six months the patient will be candida free and she can then start eating some of the foods that for now she has to cut out.

The sugar cravings were very bad, ice cream, cookies, wanting sweet coffee and iced tea, frosted pastries. No wonder she struggled with her weight, having gained 30 pounds thanks to the candida infection and the pounds were still adding on. In order to ease into the diet she has been eating organic fruit instead of refined sugar foods, which the doctor okayed. She is using the fruit as a transition to help stave off the cravings for all things sweet so she is less likely to fall off the diet altogether.

She intends to gradually reduce the fruit she eats so she is not even feeding the yeast natural sugars, and is lucky in that she has her own gardens in which she has a lot of organic fresh vegetables which are big on her new diet plan.

So the link between candida and alcohol is basically if you have an overgrowth problem you are effectively fermenting yeast in your body. Just as alcohol is fermented. It can cause exhaustion, fatigue and a lot of other undesirable symptoms. Drinking when you have a yeast infection can raise the toxicity in your liver to levels you would not imagine, as both together become very toxic and has high amounts of acetaldehyde. This is the chemical that after a lot of alcohol consumption causes the symptoms of a hangover. If your body is making this awfully toxic compound each day that already weakened liver is being hammered, as is your immune system.

So in the same way candida sufferers are tired and fatigued, a drinker becomes hung over. Of course as well as that symptoms there are many others, all of which cause the immune system to be weakened further as well as the liver, and a general overall feeling of poor health.

Even without a candida infection a lot pf people when they go out to drink socially drink too much and are causing their own set of health problems. But with candida this is multiplied and increased a lot. The liver cannot handle that kind of poor decision making for long.

The micro-organism Candida albicans is what causes yeast infections. Present normally on the body, this fungus is normally harmless in its small numbers. But when the balance of the body gets messed with the fungus can overgrow, leading to a yeast infection. When you know what is causing your imbalance you can take steps to correct it.

Here are the top ten triggers that lead to a yeast infection (in no particular order):

1 Unprotected sex with a partner who if untreated can re-infect you.

2 Wearing tight or wet clothing frequently (pantyhose, jeans, synthetic underwear).

3 A diet that is poor meaning high in yeast and sugar foods and low in fresh fruits and vegetables.

4 Not properly curing the first infection.

5 Using scented and or harsh products on that area such as toilet paper, tampons, soaps, bubble bath, deodorants, douching.

6 Being on antibiotics for a prolonged amount of time as they kill the good bacteria that control the candida’s growth normally.

7 Low immune system from another illness.

8 Some lubricants and spermicides in condoms can affect the pH of the vagina and give the fungus a chance to over grow.

9 If small tears occur as a result of sex when not adequately lubricated it can trigger an infection.

10 Hormone changes affect the pH and usual chemical balance of the body and so can lead to an infection. This includes pregnancy, birth control pill, menopause, menstruation and use of steroids.

Dealing with this possible causes can mean you are less likely to get another outbreak, though you will find it can involves lifestyle changes, changing what you wear, you eat and so on. Do not wait till you get another infection, take those steps now. Prevention is always better than a cure and the added benefit of this more holistic and natural approach dealing with your recurring yeast infections, is that it will make you overall healthier too.