Candida and the symptoms
What is candida?
Candida is a type of parasitic yeast-like fungus. Actually, it is a dimorphic organism, meaning it can exist in two shapes and forms simultaneously. One form is a yeast-like state that is a non-invasive, sugar-fermenting organism. Normally this fungus lives in healthy balance with other bacteria and yeast in the body. The other is a fungal form that produces very long root-like structures, called rhizoids, that can penetrate the mucosa and is invasive. “Friendly” bacteria and a healthy immune system prevent this yeast from becoming an infectious fungus.
What makes candida bad?
It is when our bodies lose their proper immune protection, or the intestinal pH is altered, that the organism can change from the yeast form to the fungal form. The parasitic fungal form penetrates the gastrointestinal mucosa and breaks down the boundary between the intestinal tract, multiplies and develops toxins which circulate in the bloodstream and causes all kinds of symptoms and illnesses.
It has been unofficially estimated that a startling 80% of the population may have candidiasis that is out of control.
What causes the change from good to bad?
There are many theories. The conversion happens due to some sort of attack on our immune system – either prolonged antibiotic use, taking steroids, chemotherapy or oral contraceptives on a regular basis, or a high sugar diet. It could be a combination of these. It is also conjectured that candida increases its numbers during periods of stress and lowered immune states.
Symptoms of a candida infestation
Because candida can affect various parts of the body – the most common being the mouth, ears, nose, esophagus, throat, gastrointestinal tract, and genital tract – it can be characterized by many symptoms. These include constipation, diarrhea, colitis, hives, abdominal pain, digestive disorder, skin problems, headaches, memory loss, mood swings, muscle and joint pain, depression, extreme fatigue, kidney and bladder infections, hypothyroidism, adrenal problems, severe itching, clogged sinuses, food allergies, arthritis, bloating and gas. In children it causes autism, hyperactivity, or learning disabilities. Men may suffer from chronic anal or rectal itching, prostatitis, impotence, or genital rashes and jock itch. Women may also suffer vaginal or recurrent bladder infections or PMS symptoms, such as cramps, cravings, water retention, and night sweats. Symptoms often worsen in damp and/or moldy places, and after consumption of foods containing sugar and/or yeast. Because of its many and varied symptoms, this disorder is often misdiagnosed.
What to do?
Eliminate the foods that the fungi thrive on. They are sugar, white flour products, yeast breads, wine, beer, fruit juices, cheeses, mushrooms, vinegar products. Limit fruit to small amounts until the yeast infection is under control. Limit meat and dairy products that have been given antibiotic shots, even eggs can be a problem. Do eat vegetables, fish, and gluten-free grains such as brown rice and millet. Plain yogurt that contains live yogurt cultures. Take some type of fiber daily. Oat bran is a good source or Psyllium. Drink distilled water. Garlic is a natural antibiotic that helps kill off bad bacteria and fungus: Use 2 cloves daily.
Hydrochloric acid and pancreatic enzymes help to prevent yeast overgrowth. Hydrochloric acid kills worms, parasites, viruses, germs and bacteria. Avoid antacids, they eliminate the hydrochloric acid that destroys and prevents fungal infestations. Use natural antacids, such as papaya supplements.
Essential fatty acids found in salmon oil, borage, evening primrose oil, back current and especially flaxseed oil have strong antifungal properties.
Detoxification is necessary to clean the body of toxins. Colon cleanser such as R.T.E. Rejuvenation though Elimination, parasite cleanser such as RID for worms and parasites, blood and liver cleansers such as Spring Cleaning Detox or Liver Cleanse. I also have a formula called Candida Clear. And of course Acidophilus or ProBiotics are very important for supplying the “friendly” bacteria that is missing when fungal infections take over. Using herbs are excellent, such as Elecampane, a natural fungicide, Black Walnut, expels worms and parasites, and Pau D’Arco, has natural antifungal and antitumor properties
Disclaimer:
The statements contained here have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The statements contained herein are for informational purposes only, and are not meant to replace the services or recommendations of a physician or qualified care practitioner.
