Sep 16

Written by: Linda Secora
9/16/2009 2:45 PM 

Candida albicans, a common yeast, is part of the regular flora (bacteria) in the digestive tract. In a normal state, they live in a healthy ratio of about one candida to one million other bacteria. Due to many modern-day factors this yeast can grow wildly out of correct proportion. Yeast overgrowth-related disorders may then develop, such as yeast infections, rectal itch, constipation, bloating, skin problems and many others. With long term infestation, this candida yeast shifts into a fungal form which develops roots, called rhizoids that can grow right into the intestinal wall. These rhizoids cause the intestine to become porous, allowing toxins and undigested proteins and carbohydrates to flow through the bowel wall, to be absorbed into the body and the blood stream. This condition is called Leaky Gut Syndrome. The next step in this vicious cycle is that the immune system of the individual makes anti-bodies (proteins) which attempt to neutralize the candida overgrowth. These antibodies can cause the body to become hypersensitive to certain foods and molds, and can create a wide variety of food allergies. They can also interfere with hormonal activity and cause nutritional deficiencies. These factors, combined with poor eating habits, stress and environmental toxins create a very hospitable environment for candida. WHAT CAUSES CANDIDA? • Repeated antibiotic use is the most common cause of yeast overgrowth. A healthy intestinal bacteria balance suppresses the overgrowth of yeast. When antibiotics destroy this healthy flora, candida is free to proliferate. • Birth control pills and cortisone drugs commonly cause candida overgrowth as a side effect. • Over consumption of sugar and refined carbohydrates greatly affects the balance of good flora in the intestinal tract. The lack of good quality food in one’s diet compromises the immune system, which helps yeast to flourish. • Vaginal yeast can be transmitted from an infected partner. • Higher progesterone levels seem to enhance yeast growth, so women with candida may see increased symptoms premenstrually or during pregnancy. How to get Rid of Candida 1. Minimize the use of antibiotics, steroids and oral contraceptives. 2. Change your diet – minimize use of sugar (use a quality non-artificial sweetener) and eat plenty of vegetables and lean protein. 3. Enhance digestion – take enzymes including hydrochloric acid with meals. 4. Re-establish beneficial gut flora with a probiotic maintenance formula and cultured foods. 5. Cleanse your system with anti-fungal herbs (to kill Candida). 6. Increase fiber consumption – this will help absorb and sweep out toxins that are being created as Candida dies off. We need 30-40 grams of fiber per day – most Americans only get 10-12 grams per day. 7. Drink plenty of water, at least half your body weight in ounces per day (for a 120 pound person that means sixty ounces). 8. Colon hydrotherapy is suggested as part of an effective detox.

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