Candida and zinc deficiency

Candida Overgrowth & Zinc Deficiency

Last Updated: Aug 16, 2013 | By Ashley Miller

Ashley Miller

Ashley Miller is a licensed social worker, psychotherapist, certified Reiki practitioner, yoga enthusiast and aromatherapist. She has also worked as an employee assistance program counselor and a substance-abuse professional. Miller holds a Master of Social Work and has extensive training in mental health diagnosis, as well as child and adolescent psychotherapy. She also has a bachelor's degree in music.

Recurring yeast infections may be related to a zinc deficiency. Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

Yeast infections are typically caused by an overgrowth of candida, a fungus that usually lives harmlessly on your body. Certain people have a higher risk of developing yeast infections. Candidiasis is the term used to describe a vaginal yeast infection caused by yeast overgrowth. Zinc deficiency may increase your risk of yeast infections, although research regarding this hypothesis has had mixed results.

About Candida

Candida is a microorganism that lives on everyone's body. Candida and other types of bacteria that help to balance levels of candida, known as lactobacillus bacteria, live in your vagina. Lactobacillus produces an acid that helps to prevent overgrowth of candida. When levels of candida are not balanced by this acid, you may develop a yeast infection. Certain factors, such as antibiotics, pregnancy, immune system disorders and douching, can disrupt the production of acid made by lactobacillus. Zinc is thought to aid the immune system. Some research has shown that a deficiency in zinc can lead to increased incidences of yeast infections.

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Zinc Deficiency

Zinc is an important nutrient known as an essential trace mineral that helps in a number of biological processes. Protein digestion, enzymatic reactions, energy production, antioxidant functions and maintaining a healthy immune system are among zinc's many roles. Although zinc is found in foods such as oysters, red meat, poultry, cheese and legumes, zinc deficiency is not unusual, especially in the elderly, alcoholics, people with anorexia or those who follow restricted diets, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. A zinc deficiency can decrease the functioning of your immune system and possibly increase your susceptibility to yeast infections.

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Clinical Evidence

Research has had conflicting results regarding the effects of zinc deficiency on yeast infections. One study, published in the November 1986 issue of the "American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology," found that mild zinc deficiencies are common in women who experience repeated vaginal candidiasis and may increase the likelihood of recurring instances of this infection. However, another study, published in 1994 in the journal, "Genitourinary Medicine," found no correlation between zinc levels and recurrent yeast infections.

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