Yeast infections are one of the most common reasons women experience abnormal discharge, itchy vagina, and burning during urination. Some women get them every once in a while, while others seem to get them every month!
When I say yeast infections, I'm referring to the overgrowth of Candida. But did you know that Candida overgrowth can cause more than just yeast infections?
Today I will share with you how to treat Candida naturally and permanently, so you can say goodbye to the annoying doctor appointments or convenient store trips to get over the counter meds.
First of All, What is Candida?
Candida is a fungal species located in the gut or vagina. It's one of the most common types of yeast in our GI tract. In healthy individuals, this yeast is present, but it's in check. There are small amounts, but nothing too harmful.
However, when that Candida yeast overgrows, that's when issues occur- minute and severe. This yeast grows exponentially when its environment is in just the right conditions.
And you know what makes your gut (specifically your microbiome) a great environment for this yeast to grow?
Poor diet, antibiotic use, birth control pills, and even stress. All these things cause imbalances in your microbiome, leading to a ton of issues. Not only in your gut and vagina, but throughout your body as well.
"Do I Have Candida?"
So how do you know if you have Candida? Well, this overgrowth can express itself in several ways depending on the severity of it. And honestly, the symptoms vary just from person to person. Here are some common symptoms that I see Candida cause my patients.
Symptoms Of Candida
Acid reflux
Weight loss resistance
Anxiety
Fungal Infections of skin or nails
Autoimmune conditions
Low immune system
Brain fog
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Constipation/Diarrhea
Depression
Eczema
Bloating
Thyroid symptoms
Panic attacks
Abnormal discharge- *Remember ladies, discharge is normal during certain parts of your cycle!
Things that cause Candida Overgrowth
Chronic emotional and mental stress
Overeating sugary foods
Certain medications
Additional Candida Effects
So while some of these symptoms are more annoying than serious, it's still important to address them right away if it is Candida. These symptoms are telling your body that something isn't quite right with it. If left unchecked, it can lead to more serious issues.
It can invade the mucous membranes lining the gastrointestinal tract, particularly in the lower intestines and colon. This can lead to tiny holes developing (because of loosening gap junctions in the membrane), allowing yeast, undigested food particles, bacteria, pollen, environmental toxins, and other foreign chemicals to enter the bloodstream. This is known as "leaky gut syndrome".
Leaky gut can contribute to more serious effects, including:
Rashes
Fungal infections
Weakened immunity
Food sensitivities
Headaches
Asthma and sinusitis
Digestive complaints
Fatigue
Anxiety and Depression
Brain Fog
How Do You Get Rid Of Candida?
So here's what you've been wanting to know, right? What's the best way to get rid of Candida. The best way is to address the underlying causes of it... not to cover it up with medication (just for it to come back next month).
Diagnostic Testing
First off, you want to make sure that it is Candida in the first place. This is where diagnostic testing comes into play. There are comprehensive stool tests that your naturopathic doctor can order for you. It will tell you if it's an actual Candida overgrowth or if another yeast is causing it. Knowing this can direct you to the right treatment plan.
After you know that this specific fungus is at fault, you'll want to take the necessary steps to naturally make its environment inhabitable to permanently treat Candida.
Avoid Sugars and Other Fuel Sources
To make your gut microbiome inhabitable, you'll want to avoid sugars (especially added sugars in processed foods, along with high sugar-containing fruits). You'll also want to avoid yeast, fermented foods, mushrooms, alcohol, wheat, and white flour products - really any grains.
These can all be fuel sources, which the Candida can thrive in.
Take Natural Medicines
Caprylic acid (naturally found in coconut oil), oregano oil, garlic, and black tea, have all been shown to help with Candida overgrowth. In many cases, the side effects of taking these natural supplements are much less apparent than taking over the counter medications. However, you should still consult with your doctor to be sure you are taking the right dosage for your unique situation.
Keep Your Microbiome Balanced
After you kill off the Candida, it's important that you keep your microbiome healthy so Candida can't grow back again. Here's how you can keep it at bay.
Eat whole organic foods and non-starchy foods
Consume clean meats (avoid conventionally raised meats to avoid antibiotics and other toxins)
Slowly reintroduce fermented foods back into your diet
Avoid processed foods and foods with high added sugars
Manage your stress
Eat clean fats (avocado, hemp seeds, nuts)
Consume bone broth
Take a probiotic
Get Personalized Help From a Naturopathic Doctor
Because you may have different issues going on in your body, it may be hard to figure out your symptoms' true root cause. For example, Candida symptoms are very similar to SIBO symptoms. It's important to know what you're dealing with so that you can combat it in the most effective and efficient way possible.
How Long Does It Take To Get Rid Of Candida?
Depending on if your overgrowth is a result from a quick antibiotic treatment or from other underlying causes over the months, treating it naturally can take time. But remember that once you treat it naturally and know what to do, you won't have it coming back time and time again. Taking the holistic approach to this is well worth it.
Not only that, but you will learn how to truly take care of your body and be in control of your health so that you can avoid preventative issues in the future.
Contact A Naturopathic Doctor
If you think you may be struggling with Candida overgrowth, a Naturopathic doctor can help! The way to treat hormonal imbalances isn't to cover them up with a medication that suppresses your natural functioning!
Dr. Jillian Smithers is a naturopathic doctor in Tempe, Arizona, that addresses your health issues' underlying causes. Dr. Smithers specializes in hormone health and is currently accepting new patients. Book your FREE 15 minute consultation appointment with her today to rid your Candida and other symptoms tagging along.
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