Candida Problems : A suggested protocol. For information only please also seek expert help.
Candida problems are thought to be caused when the beneficial yeast form of candida albicans mutates to it's fungal form. As it grows out of balance it is said to produce toxins which affect the mucousal lining of the intestines leading to leaky gut syndrome and a whole host of problems. The list of suggestions of how to deal with the effects of candida is as large as the list of numerous symptoms that are said to be associated with the problem.
Where to Start ?
Antibiotics Use First things first, if you are taking anti-biotics then your balance of flora bacteria will be compromised, anti-biotic means anti- life, and indiscriminatley eliminate beneficial bacteria along with problem strains. Please take this factor into account, if you are on broad spectrum anti-biotics then it may take longer to get candida back to normal form and levels.
Stress. Stress and emotional upset can negatively effect our immune systems and many candida sufferers have reported that their candida problem really got a hold after a period of intense stress or a prolonged period of low level stress. So take steps to destress your world.
Eliminating Problem Foods From Your Diet. Sugar: All foods containing processed sugars should be eliminated. This includes cakes, sweets, jams, sodas etc. Fruit, Fruit sugars, and this includes fruit juices, and honey are also eliminated at the beginning of the diet. (These can be gradually introduced after 12 weeks and the impact of their introduction monitored.) Allowed fruits: Lemons and Limes only.
Processed Foods: White Flour products, such as breads and pastas and white rice.
Fermented Products: Removal of products that have been fermented or contain yeast. ie. bread, alcohol, soy sauce. Fermented Vegetables such as Sauerkraut are actively encouraged. Make your own as shop bought products are pasterised and devoid of beneficial pro-biotics.
Fungal Products: Mushrooms and cheeses.
Cleansing & Food Choice Drink plenty of water to help your body detoxify.
Your liver will have been burden by the alcohol produced by the candida overgrowth. So start the day with a cup of hot water and lemon juice. This helps liver detoxification which is very helpful in the removal of overload symptoms.
Carbohydrates: Stock up on vegetables that inhibit the growth of Candida: raw garlic, onions, cabbage, broccoli, turnip, kale
Protein: Get your protein from fish and fowl. Cut out red meats for first four weeks as they may strain a weak digestive sytem.
Fats: Get rid of your margerines, low flat spreads anything with hydrogenated vegetable oils. Stock up on good fats: Olive Oil, Butter, Coconut Oil. ( Coconut Oil is particullary good as it contains natural anti fungals. It can be used in cooking and as a butter replacement spread).
Another area that may be helpful is to perhaps eat smaller meals. Chew your food well, digestion starts in the mouth. You may add digestive enzymes (available in health-food stores) at this stage if you experience intestinal discomfort or bloating.
Natural Anti-Fungals Raw garlic and Oregano oil are great natural anti fungals
Repopulate the Intestines with Beneficial Microbes: Add probiotic (pro-life) bacterial flora back into the system. a good probiotic supplement is a must. Also use natural no sugar yoghurt to help repopulate intestines. A mixture of yoghurt and two tablespoons of linseed can be a good way to start the day. Some dietary practitioners think the linseed can help 'scrape' the sticky residue from processed foods from the intestinal walls.
Lifestyle Keep to a healthy diet with a minimum of processed food. Drink clean filtered water when possible. Ban sugars. Get exercise and flood yourself with oxygen.
