Candida: The North American Epidemic

Candida: The North American Epidemic

Candida, a yeast that can invade the body and overwhelm its defenses, may be the culprit behind many

common health problems including, heartburn, indigestion, gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, food

cravings, fatigue (especially after meals), brain fog, ADD, ADHD, headaches, vaginal yeast and bladder

infections, coated tongue, sinus congestion, post nasal drip, food and environmental allergies, as well

as unexplained aches and pains. Most of these symptoms can also have other causes however, if you

experience several of these, there is a good chance that Candida is an issue.

Candida is a yeast or fungus, that is normally present in the bowel in limited amounts. It is estimated

that up to 85% of the population in North America have an overgrowth of Candida in their body.

Candida feeds on sugars, simple carbohydrates and fermented products. This invasive fungus can

penetrate the mucosa of the intestinal system and travel to other parts of the body. Candida

overgrowth then sets off a cycle that leads to the further weakening of the body's defenses, which in

turn allows Candida to spread even further.

The twentieth century diet and lifestyle are largely responsible for the Candida epidemic we are now

experiencing. Too many antibiotics, hormone intake (including the hormones in our meat), sugar,

refined food, food chemicals and alcohol, are all factors that are contributing to the problem.

Chemical use, pesticides, pollutants and daily stress in our lives produce toxins that also feed the

yeast.

Candida produces toxins as a byproduct of it’s natural processes. Large quantities of Candida create

larger quantities of these byproducts. These toxins are very difficult for the body to cope with. The

result is a weakened immune system. Candida also creates a digestive conflict and robs people of the

vital nutrients they need from the food they eat. Many people with Candida digest less than 50% of the

nutrients in the food they intake. This invasive fungus can cause damage to the intestinal walls and as

a result, partially digested dietary proteins travel into the bloodstream and can cause other health

issues including food allergies and sensitivities. Not only does Candida wreak havoc in the intestinal

system, it travels to other parts of the body resulting in unpleasant and often long-term symptoms

including sinus, digestive, and skin issues.

Believe it or not, your intestines are home to many beneficial intestinal bacteria. These bacteria are

absolutely necessary to break down food, absorb nutrients, metabolize hormones and prevent disease

causing bacteria, parasites and fungus like Candida from taking over. When an overgrowth of Candida is

present in the intestinal system, the good bacteria is crowded out. This results in fewer nutrients being

absorbed and snowballs into many other possible symptoms.

If you are experiencing typical symptoms and suspect that Candida could be affecting your health, an

assessment and supervised treatment by an experienced health care practitioner is recommended.

Your health practitioner can develop an individualized approach and provide the appropriate

supervision during treatment. After a detailed assessment, your health practitioner will evaluate the

need for treatment. You will likely be asked to eliminate refined sugar from your diet which will starve

the yeast. White breads, pastas and rice should be avoided because they quickly turn to sugar in the

body. A good quality probiotic (high doses of “good bacteria”) may also be recommended. Other whole

food anti-fungal supplements like garlic, oregano and cinnamon can also be helpful.