I hope you are doing well this week. Today I wanted to write to you about Candida.
I know firsthand how crappy a person can feel when they are dealing with candida. I too have battled it, so I know how that story goes! But there is hope, you can rebalance your body and feel like your old self again. Holla!
So what is a yeast imbalance a.k.a (Candida)?
Stress, diet, alcohol consumption, antibiotics, contraceptives and health status are all contributing factors that can set the ground work for impairing our “good bacteria” balance (the good guys that keep our intestinal balance happy and digestion functioning like a well-oiled machine).
These good bacteria can be wiped out and beat up, by the above mentioned factors, giving the “bad bacteria” a chance to flourish and grow and feed on .. yum.. sugar! This is candida. It is essentially a yeast imbalance within the body. It is also known as Candida albicans fungus, which is one of the most common yeast that is found in a healthy gastrointestinal system.
It can present itself in many different forms such as:
- Fatigue
- Sugar cravings
- Headaches
- Itchy, watery, dry eyes
- Abdominal gas, bloating
- Repeated bladder infection
- Increasing food and chemical sensitivities
- Endometriosis/ovary issues
- Digestive issues (diarrhea, constipation etc.)
- White coated tongue, oral thrush
- Yeast infections
- Acne, skin issues (eczema, fungal infections, psoriasis)
- Brain fog
- Mood swings, anxiety
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Thyroid issues
- Autoimmune conditions
- PMS (females)
Do you suspect that you may be experiencing candida? Or maybe this has been something that you have been dealing with for quite some time and just can’t get the upper hand on?
Remember, just because you have some of these symptoms, does not mean that you are automatically dealing with Candida. Candida can present itself through a myriad of symptoms.
Do you deal with any of these symptoms? Well, you are not alone as Candida is quite common. If you want to begin rebalancing your system check out the 3 KEY STEPS YOU NEED to implement pronto!
1) Cut the sugar out my friend:
Quit feeding those greedy “bad bacteria”. Try to eliminate refined sugars and yeast containing foods (ex: sugar, bread and beer!). Stick with natural foods like low starch vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, lean natural animal meat (if you eat meat), and even the occasional low sugar fruit (like blue berries!). I suggest you really go wild with your vegetables, fill that plate up with larger portions. Most people need to eat a ton more vegetables then we do!
*(Most Candida protocols are slightly different, from what I have observed. Some allow zero sugar and are extremely restrictive, while others are a bit more lenient and allow some wiggle room. Try what works for you and if you need to, reduce all sugar further for a time period)
**It is wise to follow a candida program for at least one month to see how you feel. Some programs extend for 3-6 months. It will depend on the individual and their health concerns.
2) Incorporate an antifungal:
Choosing a high quality antifungal is important as it will help to kick that bad bacteria in the butt and allow for the good bacteria to return to town and get things back in order.
You can ease into adding an anti fungal slowly, or you can add one as you progress with your diet change. Keep in mind that you may experience some “die off” symptoms of candida while your body is detoxing. This may include lethargy, cravings, headaches and overall not feeling so hot.
This will pass and you can dial down the antifungal if you are having strong “die off” symptoms. It is always important to incorporate an antifungal if you are trying to eliminate candida!
Antifungals include – grapefruit seed extract, oregano oil and caprylic acid. Garlic is also a great antifungal that you can add into your meals.
3) Probiotic it UP:
While you stop feeding the candida, and you are adding an antifungal it is integral that you replenish your intestinal tract with the “good guys”. Make sure to take a high quality probiotic supplement. Choose one from your local health food store. They usually require refrigeration and should have a decently high count of bacteria in them (usually in the billions is good!). That’s a lot of good guys on your side.
Check out this recipe, which is candida friendly!
Green Zucchini Pesto Pasta!
- 2 TBSP Coconut oil
- 1-3/4 red onion, chopped
- 1 zucchini, peeled (unpeeled if organic) and seeded, then sliced lengthwise into long strips
- 2 TBSP dairy free pesto
- 2-3 TBSP chopped olives, black or green or kalamata
- Zest of ½ a lemon
- Sea salt to taste
- Freshly ground pepper to taste
- Melt oil in large sauté pan over med-high heat
- Add the onion and sauté until it softens, 3-4 minutes
- Stir in the zucchini, then add the pesto and combine
- Continue sautéing until the ingredients are warm
- Stir in olives and lemon zest
- Season with salt and pepper and it’s dinnertime!
If you suspect that you may be dealing with Candida and would like a step by step approach to eliminate and rebalance your body, come on over and book an appointment with Down to Earth Wellness! We will get you on the right path to health and happy digestion!
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Cheers to a balanced gut!
