Candida is a fungus that aids with nutrient absorption and digestion when in proper levels in the body. When it overproduces, typical candida symptoms may appear. In the digestive tract, if left unchecked, it breaks down the walls of the intestinal lining and penetrates into the bloodstream. When your body’s natural pH balance is upset, the candida yeasts can grow out of control, creating a systemic problem and unpleasant candida symptoms. Good healthy bacteria and a properly functioning immune system are essential when fighting this stubborn infection.
Candida Symptoms:
Chronic Fatigue
Mood Disorders
Recurring Vaginal and Urinary Tract Infections
Oral Thrush
Sinus Infections
Intestinal Distress
Brain Fog
Skin and Nail Fungal Infections
Hormonal Imbalance
What Causes Candida Infections?
Broad-Spectrum Antibiotics
Birth Control Pills
Oral Corticosteroids
Cancer Treatments
Diabetes
Weakened Immune System
Lifestyle Recommendations:
• Reduce significant stressors and excessive obligations; practice stress-relieving activities. • Get 8 hours of solid sleep nightly; avoid keeping late hours which can compromise the immune system. • Avoid exposure to environmental toxins in food, water and air; avoid mold (black mold in particular). • Avoid over-use of NSAIDs (such as aspirin and ibuprofen), antibiotics and steroids. • Use chemical-free and healthy unscented soaps, lotions/oils and detergents; women should avoid using douches. References can be found on the Environmental Working Group’s “Skin Deep” database. • Discuss optimizing hormonal levels and monitoring the thyroid.
Dietary Tips and Caveats:
• Consider the ketogenic and/or low carb diet for healthier brain function. Avoid sugars including honey and artificial sweeteners, high fructose corn syrup, cheese, alcohol, and starchy carbohydrates like potatoes, carrots, beets and parsnips. • Eat a gluten-free diet; eat non-glutinous grains and avoid corn and corn by-products. • Avoid high mold-containing nuts such as pistachios, cashews and peanuts; avoid mushrooms with the exception of the medicinal ones, which include reishi, maitake, & shiitake. • Eat a diet of unprocessed whole foods, abundant in high antioxidant vegetables (preferably organic) and hormone – and heavy metal-free animal proteins like wild fish, and organic, non-processed meats. • Avoid any foods to which there are sensitivities or allergies. • Incorporate healthy high quality protein shakes
How can Chiropractic Care Help?
Chiropractic care can help treat Candida infections by discussing specific diet changes, recommending certain supplements that can eradicate Candida organisms, and provide adjustments to the body that help to improve the communication between the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. When your spine is functioning properly, your body can move blood, water, and nutrients more easily and effectively to internal organs, which strengthens the immune system and promotes healing. Chiropractors don’t use pharmaceutical treatments, which can perpetuate the Candida cycle.