Candida Yeast - What is it and What do I need to know about it

Candida, a yeast normally present in the human digestive tract.
Wikipedia - "Candida albicans is an opportunistic pathogenic yeast that is a common member of the human gut flora. It does not proliferate outside the human body.  It is detected in the gastrointestinal tract and mouth in 40–60% of healthy adults. It is usually a commensal organism, but it can become pathogenic in immunocompromised individuals under a variety of conditions. It is one of the few species of the genus Candida that causes the human infection candidiasis, which results from an overgrowth of the fungus."
​Candidiasis, an overgrowth of candida yeast.
Causes: Antibiotic use, Steroids, Poor Diet, Excessive Sugar, Low Immunity
Cure: Diet rich in whole foods, moderate fruit intake (except in extreme cases), lots of fresh veggies (non-starchy) raw or lightly cooked, garlic, coconut oil, pungent herbs such as oregano, rosemary, celery seeds, dill, basil. Moderate intake of clean healthy meats and fish, preferably  grass feed, organic meats and wild fish. Elk, bison, venison, goats meats all good choices. Salmon, trout, sardines, mackerel.  Moderate whole grains such as rice, quinoa, buckwheat. Avoid gluten. Probiotic rich foods, goats milk kefir 3-4 oz. 2X's daily, fermented vegetables, sauerkraut and kimchi.
Nutrient Support: 

• Caprylic acid, a medium-chain triglyceride (MCT), is an energizing, easy-to-digest quality fat. Available in liquid form, easily  added to food and drinks. This super food rich in caprylic acid suppresses yeast overgrowth. Keto Karri offers an excellent MCT Oil
• Oregano Oil Capsules, a rich source of  Carvacrol the most abundant phenol in oregano oil. It has been shown to stop the growth of several different types of bacteria. Thymol a natural antifungal that can also support the immune system and protect against toxins. Rosamarinic acid powerful antioxidant that helps protect against damage caused by free radicals. American Herb & Spice Company offers my favorite brand, quality is determined by the levels of active agents in the final extract of oil!
• Pau d'Arco Tea, tincture or capsules - Antimicrobial, antifungal this mild tasting herb makes a great tea! Drink 3-4 cups per day or use a tincture or capsules if more convenient. Learn more about Pau d'Arco
• ​Garlic - unparalleled antimicrobial super food. Eat raw daily! at least one to two cloves. Supplements are fine for extra support, but nothing works as well as the live bulb itself! See my Garlic Blog for more info.
• Herb Pharm - Fungus Fighter,  a well balanced blends of potent herbs to help overcome fungus and yeast infections. I've used this as a "go to" for years.
• Stevia - raw powdered form is best. Highly refined stevia is too far from the natural form of this healthful herb. Lightly sweetening it also helps control blood sugar.
• Tea - Black or Green teas have tannins that  help reduce yeast populations. There are many varieties of teas, but they all come from the same plant. Their difference lies in the way they are processed after picking. Wing Hop Fung 
• Body Ecology This book gives an excellent overview of Candidiasis and how through diligent efforts you can reestablished a balance to your gut microbiome. They also have a website offering many products with blends of supplements, I like to try the natural route first then go to more heavy hitters. Healing this condition does not have to cost a fortune!

Take the Candida Test to see if you may be experiencing Candidiasis.
​If you are currently experiencing symptoms of Candidiasis find a health care practitioner whose experience includes treatment plans and support. Treating this condition requires a commitment to lifestyle and diet changes.

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