Candida Overgrowth

What is Candida Overgrowth?

Candida is a yeast that can reside in places throughout the body – vaginal, digestive, and oral. It is normal to have yeast in small amounts, but when there is an imbalance in the flora (good bacteria), if can allow the yeast to overgrow. This is candida or yeast overgrowth. There are multiple strains of yeast that can become problematic for people. Stress, medications (antibiotics, birth control), low immune function, digestive issues, constipation, diarrhea, and a high sugar diet are a few things that can cause the yeast overgrowth.

Candida Overgrowth Symptoms

  • Constipation and/or diarrhea
  • Bloating and gas
  • Abdominal pain
  • Food sensitivities
  • Allergies
  • Brain fog
  • Sensitivities to medications, sugar, and alcohol
  • Fatigue
  • Weight gain

How to test for yeast overgrowth:

A stool test is required to determine if there is a yeast overgrowth in the digestive tract (colon). Stool testing will also test for the most effective way to treat the candida or yeast.

Human Body

Candida Overgrowth Treatments

Treating a yeast overgrowth is a multi-step process and should be done with naturopathic supervision. Herbs kill the candida while a candida diet prevents reoccurrence and eliminates the yeast. Lastly, the gut needs to be healed and healthy bacteria restored.