Candida Overgrowth and the Impact on Gut Health

The delicate balance of the human body is a symphony orchestrated by trillions of microorganisms residing within our gut. Among these inhabitants is Candida, a type of yeast that, when kept in check, plays a beneficial role in the digestive system. However, an overgrowth of Candida can disrupt this balance, leading to a range of health issues.

What is Candida?

Candida is a type of yeast that naturally resides in the human body, primarily in the gastrointestinal tract, mouth, throat, and genital area. Under normal circumstances, it coexists peacefully with other microbes, contributing to digestion and nutrient absorption.

Symptoms of Candida Overgrowth

When Candida proliferates uncontrollably, it can lead to a condition known as Candidiasis or Candida overgrowth. The symptoms of Candida overgrowth can vary from person to person, but some common signs include:

Digestive Issues: These may include bloating, gas, diarrhea, or constipation.

Yeast Infections: Recurring yeast infections commonly in the genital area or mouth. Symptoms include:

• Genital area - thrush, odour, discharge, itchiness, jock itch, redness or irritation.

• Oral - thrush, lumps on the roof of the mouth or tongue, thick white coating on the tongue, bad breath

Fatigue: Chronic fatigue, persistent low energy levels, brain fog or poor concentration.

Skin Problems: Eczema, psoriasis, fungal skin infections or persistent skin rashes.

Mood Changes: Anxiety, depression, or irritability.

Sugar Cravings: Intense cravings for sugary or high-carbohydrate foods.

Causes of Candida Overgrowth

Several factors can contribute to the overgrowth of Candida:

Antibiotics: They can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, allowing Candida to flourish.

Diet High in Sugar and Processed Foods: These provide a fertile environment for yeast overgrowth. The more of an imbalance, the more the person will crave sugar to feed the yeast.

Stress: High-stress levels can weaken the immune system, making the body susceptible to Candida overgrowth.

Weak Immune System: Illnesses or conditions compromising the immune system can contribute to Candida proliferation.

Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations can contribute to yeast infections, especially in women. This is why candida overgrowth can commonly appear in women on birth control.

Treatment for Candida Overgrowth

Managing Candida overgrowth typically involves a multifaceted approach:

Dietary Changes: Adopting a low-sugar, low-carbohydrate diet can starve Candida. Incorporating probiotics and antifungal foods like garlic, coconut oil, and oregano may also help. Working with a practitioner can help you navigate foods to include and foods to avoid.

Probiotics and Supplements: Probiotics can restore the balance of gut bacteria. Antifungal herbs and supplements can also be of benefit when used correctly. Once again, working with a qualified practitioner will help you avoid creating further imbalances by using the wrong herbs or probiotic strains. Microbiome Stool Testing may also be beneficial to know what types of overgrowth you are dealing with and what kinds of good bacteria you lack.

Reducing Stress: Meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help manage stress levels, supporting the immune system.

Colon Hydrotherapy: Colonics and enemas are especially helpful alongside other candida protocols to help reduce unwanted symptoms as the yeast dies off (see below). Coffee enemas can be particularly beneficial.

Prescribed Medications: Healthcare providers may prescribe antifungal medications or creams to address Candida overgrowth in severe cases. A one-off treatment may be all you need; however, if the issues keep returning, you aren’t addressing the underlying cause.

Die-Off Symptoms

When treating Candida overgrowth, a common phenomenon known as "die-off" or Herxheimer reaction can occur. As Candida cells are killed, they release toxins into the body, which can trigger temporary symptoms such as:

Flu-like symptoms: Headaches, fatigue, muscle or joint pain.

Digestive Disturbances: Diarrhea, gas, or bloating.

Skin Rashes: Transient aggravation of skin conditions or new rashes.

Mood Changes: Increased irritability, anxiety, or mood swings.

When undertaking any detox or cleanse, it is important to make sure your organs of elimination are supported and working so toxins can get out.

How we can Help with Reflux at GRC

Colon Hydrotherapy - Colonics can help you clear out candida die-off to help reduce unwanted symptoms and restore balance. They also help to remove old waste and blockages that can be fermenting, contributing to unwanted overgrowth. We often see signs of Candida Overgrowth during colonic sessions, it looks like old frothy beer releasing from the colon.

Naturopathy - The main principle of naturopathy is to find and treat the underlying cause of disease in the body. Our naturopaths can help you investigate possible candida causes by taking time to understand your symptoms and functional testing if needed. They can also help your digestive system heal and return to balance after long-term imbalances caused by candida, including skin and hormonal issues.

Clinical Nutrition - Our clinical nutritionist can help you understand what foods will work best to help reduce your candida overgrowth and restore balance in the gut. They can also send you for functional gut testing and prescribe nutrients to support your gut healing.

Microbiome Gut Testing - Our natural health care practitioners can recommend the best testing options. We also offer gut testing packages to help get you started on your gut healing journey or to help you identify weaknesses in your microbiome so you can address them for optimal health and well-being.

Other services - All health begins in the gut. Sometimes, we have to think outside the box and peel back some layers to allow healing. Stress, anxiety and past traumas can all impact our gut health. We offer an infrared sauna to help the body relax and destress. We also offer hypnotherapy to help you overcome limiting beliefs and address past Traumas.

Online Shop - Our online shop has enema kits, coffee beans and other products to help optimise your gut health.

Maintaining a harmonious balance within the gut is crucial for overall health. Candida, when kept in check, plays a beneficial role. However, an overgrowth can lead to various health issues. Adopting a balanced diet, managing stress, and seeking appropriate guidance when needed can restore the delicate equilibrium of gut flora and mitigate the effects of Candida overgrowth.