Candida Albicans is a type of yeast-like parasitic fungus that inhabits the intestines, genital tract, mouth, esophagus, and throat. Normally this fungus lives in a healthy balance with the other bacteria and yeasts in the body, however, certain conditions can cause it to multiply, weakening the immune system and causing the infection known as Candidiasis. When Candida infects the vagina it results in vaginitis characterized by large amounts of cheesy white discharge and intense itching and burning.
When the fungus infects the oral cavity, white sores can form on the tongue, gums, and inside of the cheeks. In a baby, the white patches of thrush can look like milk spots. It is more common in infants and in people with compromised immune symptoms. Virtually everyone with AIDS has some form of fungal infection. Anyone who has been on long-term antibiotic therapy, or has taken antibiotics frequently, probably has a Candida overgrowth somewhere in the body. Antibiotics weaken the immune system and also destroy the “friendly” bacteria that normally keep Candida in check. As Candida spreads, the fungus releases toxins that further weaken the immune system.
Symptoms:
Constipation, diarrhea, colitis, abdominal pain, headaches, bad breath, impotence, memory loss, thrush, muscle and joint pain, sore throat, persistent cough, acne, night sweats, burning tongue and white spots on the tongue and in the mouth
Recommendations:
- Raw organic garlic inhibits and destroys Candida Albicans. Two separate studies showed that garlic inhibited the growth of candida albicans in vitro. Appl Environ Microbiol, 53(3), March 1987, p. 615-617. AND Antimicrob Agents Chemother, 30(3), September 1986, p.499-501
- Eat plenty of raw vegetables and gluten-free grains, such as brown rice and millet. See foods that heal.
- Drink distilled water only.
- To avoid reinfection, replace your toothbrush every 30 days and wear white cotton underwear, as synthetic fibers increase perspiration, creating a hospitable environment for Candida.
- Herbal colon formulas can be helpful in cleansing the intestinal tract, which can help clear up a yeast infection. If you are interested, click here for a high quality colon cleanse.
- If you have chronic or unusually persistent Candida infections, see your health care provider.
Things to avoid:
- Avoid foods that destroy, including aged cheeses, alcohol, baked goods, chocolate, dried fruit, ham, pickles, soy sauce, raw mushrooms, and nut butters.
- Eliminate citrus fruits and acidic fruits like orange, grapefruit, lemon, tomato and limes from your diet for a month.
References:
1) James F. Balch, MD, Phyllis A. Balch, NCC, “Prescribing for Nutritional Healing” (1997)
2) S. yoshida, et al., “Antifungal Activity of Ajoene Derived from Garlic”, Appl Environ Microbiol, 53(3), March 1987, p. 615-617.
3) M. Adetumbi, et al., “Allium Satvium (garlic) inhibits lipid synthesis by Candida Albicans”, Antimicrob Agents Chemother, 30(3), September 1986, p.499-501
