How to Help Fight Candida Overgrowth

How to Help Fight Candida Overgrowth and signs and symptoms that you may be experiencing it.

What in the world is Candida overgrowth? Many people suffer from Candida and do not even know it. Some are more susceptible to Candida overgrowth than others. Some symptoms can include moodiness, depression and gastrointestinal distress.

Yeast is a common term for Candida, which is a type of fungus. Small amounts of this fungus live in the body naturally. Most commonly in the mouth and intestines.

Overgrowth of Candida can be caused by a number of causes. Changes in the in the environment can disrupt the balance in the body. Certain types of antibiotics or other medications can also cause an overgrowth. A poor diet that is high in refined sugar, carbohydrates, over consumptions of alcohol and fermented foods can contribute to Candida overgrowth. High stress lifestyles can bring Candida overgrowth to the body as well.

When there is overgrowth in the body, walls of the intestines weaken and allow the fungus to enter the body. When this occurs, toxins are release that cause health concerns. The most common health concerns are gastrointestinal distress, yeast infections and mood swings. There are a number of other health concerns listed below.

Other Symptoms:

Leaky gut
Foot infections (nail fungus, athletes foot)
Allergy symptoms
Urinary tract infections
Fatigue (read 40 Tips to Re-Invigorate Your Life)
Autoimmune diseases
Skin disorders (eczema, psoriasis, rashes)
Brain fog

How do I know I have Candida Overgrowth?

There are tests than can be taken in the doctor’s office. The tests include blood, urine and stools testing. Typically the blood test will be done first, but more testing may be necessary as blood can, at times produce a negative result. When a blood test is given and the results are negative, but symptoms are still present, additional testing may be needed.

Natural ways to Fight Candida Overgrowth

Stopping the overgrowth is a very important first step. Once the overgrowth has stopped it’s vital to improve the good bacteria and make the gut healthy again. Changes in the diet have proven to be successful in both areas. Eating a low carb diet that is free of simple and refined sugars is highly recommended. Simple sugars are candy for fungus. Eating low to moderate complex carbohydrates will stop the overgrowth of Candida. There are definitely certain foods that should be incorporated more frequently that can combat Candida overgrowth.

Foods to Help Fight Candida Overgrowth

1. Garlic

Garlic is naturally one of the strongest anti fungal foods. It contains a sulfur compound called allicin that is a phytonutrient. Fresh garlic is one of the best fighters of yeast.

2. Wild Salmon

The omega-3 fatty acids in wild salmon are excellent for fighting fungal growth.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

The enzymes in apple cider vinegar are found to fight Candida; this is the only vinegar that should be consumed when fighting Candida.

4. Cruciferous Vegetables

Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, arugula, cabbage, and radishes are all cruciferous vegetables. They all contain phytonutrients and break down Candida. The fiber is a pre-biotic to help create the friendly bacteria in your gut.

5. Cloves

Cloves have been a strong anti-fungal food for a long time. They are especially great for foot and nail fungus. Cloves are also great to add to hot tea. You can also try using Clove Essential Oil

6. Ginger

Ginger is excellent for the liver. It has also shown to be successful when your body is resistant to anti-fungal medications.

7. Coconut Oil

The fatty acid in coconut oil has proven to break down yeast growth.

8. Other Oils

The antioxidants in olive, avocado, and flax oil are all great in fighting Candida.

9. Lemon

Lemons are a natural antiseptic and contain anti-fungal properties. Adding lemon essential oil to water or tea is an excellent way to detoxify the liver.

Interested in essential oils? Read more – Getting Started with Essential oils

10. Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a natural anti-inflammatory that causes the fungus to die.

11. Tea

White tea, black tea, and oolong contain fungal fighting tannins that are excellent in fighting fungus.

12. Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne improves circulation and creates a natural cleanser for the body.

Other Remedies

Studies have shown that yoga and deep breathing meditation are extremely helpful with digestion and detoxifying the body. The results from these practices help the body fight Candida overgrowth. These practices can also help with stressful lifestyles and mood stabilizing.