3 min read

Get the Facts on Candida Overgrowth: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention

Picture of Leena Mahtani Leena Mahtani : Mar 23, 2023 10:08:33 PM

Get the Facts on Candida Overgrowth: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention
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Candida is a type of fungus that occurs naturally in the human body. It helps keep other organisms from overgrowing and taking over when it's in balance. But when it begins to grow out of control, it can cause many uncomfortable symptoms—from digestive issues to skin rashes and more. Understanding what causes candida overgrowth is key to preventing and treating the condition. 

What Causes Candida Overgrowth? 
Three main factors can contribute to candida overgrowth: antibiotic use, poor diet, and a weakened immune system. Antibiotics kill both “good” and “bad” bacteria in the gut, which can cause an imbalance in the gut flora. An overgrowth can occur without beneficial bacteria in place to keep candida growth in check. Poor diets that are high in sugar and processed foods can also lead to candida overgrowth because these types of foods feed yeast cells. Finally, a weakened immune system due to stress or illness can cause candida overgrowth as well – your body won’t be able to fight off invading pathogens if it’s already struggling with existing health issues. 
 
Common Symptoms of Candida Overgrowth 
The most common symptom of candida overgrowth is fatigue. Other signs may include digestive distress (such as bloating), skin rashes or breakouts, brain fog or trouble concentrating, mood swings or irritability, recurrent vaginal infections (in women), recurring urinary tract infections (in men), and more. These symptoms aren’t necessarily indicative of candida alone - but if you’re experiencing multiple symptoms at once that don’t seem to have another explanation, it could be worth getting tested for candida levels just in case. 
 
How Can You Prevent Candida Overgrowth? 
Fortunately, there are some simple steps we can take to help prevent this condition from occurring. Here are seven best ways to prevent candida overgrowth, from diet to lifestyle changes. 
 
1. Maintain a Healthy Diet Low in Sugar and Processed Foods
Eating a diet low in sugar and processed foods is the first step in preventing candida overgrowth. While some natural sugars found in fruits and vegetables are ok, it’s important to avoid sugary snacks and drinks and refined carbohydrates like white bread and pastries. A balanced diet of whole grains, proteins, healthy fats, and vegetables will help keep your gut flora balanced so yeast cells won’t be able to take hold and start growing out of control.
 
2. Avoid Antibiotics Unless Necessary
Antibiotics kill both harmful and beneficial bacteria that keep your gut flora balanced, which can lead to an overgrowth of candida yeast cells. So, if you must take antibiotics for medical reasons, make sure you also take probiotic supplements to restore balance in your gut flora afterward. 
 
3. Manage Stress Levels
Stress has been linked to candida overgrowth because it disrupts the delicate balance of your body's hormones, compromising your immune system's ability to fight off infection. To manage stress levels, try yoga or meditation or find other activities that help you relax, such as reading or walking outdoors. 
 
4. Get Enough Sleep
Getting enough restful sleep helps your body repair itself while also boosting your immune system, which can more effectively fight infections like candida overgrowth. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
 
5. Exercise Regularly
Exercise helps reduce stress levels while also improving circulation throughout the body so nutrients can be transported more effectively throughout the body including those needed by the gut microbiome which helps maintain its balance against opportunistic pathogens like candida yeast cells. Try aerobic exercises like jogging or swimming three times a week for optimal results.
 
6. Drink Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated helps flush toxins from your body, which helps keep your gut microbiome healthy since toxins often interfere with its balance, increasing bad bacteria like candida yeast cells. Could you drink at least eight glasses of water each day?
 
7.  Eat Probiotic-Rich Foods Such As Yogurt And Kefir
Eating probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt and kefir helps replenish beneficial bacteria in your gut microbiota, which keeps it balanced against opportunistic pathogens like candida yeast cells. Try adding these foods to your diet regularly.
 
Candida overgrowth can be demanding, but understanding some basic facts can make living with it much more manageable. It's essential to know the underlying causes of Candida overgrowth and all the different symptoms that could potentially arise. Looking out for these signs can serve as an early warning system and help you get the treatment you need quickly before the situation worsens. A healthy diet and lifestyle can go a long way in preventing Candida overgrowth from returning or growing worse. Staying informed is key to protecting your health and keeping Candida at bay – so don't hesitate to seek answers if you suspect something isn't right.
 
Thanks for reading! 

 

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