Candida infection (intestinal yeast overgrowth)

Introduction

Candida albicans is a harmless resident microbe which lives in the healthy gut in harmonious balance with other micro-organisms. Upsetting this balance may encourage overgrowth leading to chronic Candida infection which disrupts different processes of the body. The disruption causes a wide range of symptoms affecting most parts of the body especially the digestive, nervous, immune, urinary and reproductive systems.
Because antibiotics suppress the immune system of the body, prolonged use of antibiotics is believed to be the most important factor in the development of Candida infection. Detection of specific antibodies in the blood can be used to confirm the diagnosis.

The Symptoms and Associated Diseases

The affected person feels generally sick and has symptoms as listed below:

• Allergies and chemical sensitivities
• Excessive fatigue or lethargy
• Loss of energy
• Depression
• Suppressed immune system
• Weight gain
• Irritability and lack of concentration
• Forgetfulness
• Bloating, gas and flatulence
• Intestinal cramps, constipation
• Rectal itching and altered bowel function
• Thrush and yeast infection
• Frequent bladder infection
• Menstrual problems
• Craving for sweet, carbohydrate or yeast foods

Who is at Risk?

Women are more likely to have Candida infection than men.
Those on antibiotics and oral steroid drugs.
Smokers.

The Causes

There are many factors which predispose an individual to yeast overgrowth:

• Altered bowel flora
• Decreased digestive secretions or other digestive diseases
• Dietary factors
• Use of some medicines and drugs
• Prolonged antibiotic use
• Stress and impaired immune function
• Impaired liver function
• Nutrient deficiencies and imbalances

There are several factors which exacerbate the condition and these include, antibiotic use, corticosteroid use, food allergies, a high sugar and refined carbohydrate diet, nutritional deficiencies and imbalances, chronic stress, anxiety and hypoglycaemia.

Treatment of Candida infection is best carried out after confirming diagnosis with a candida test and with the support of a nutritionist.
Those suspecting candida infection or having any of the above symptoms and any of the associated diseases might like to consider **Nutritional consultation and Candida Infection test.