What is Candidiasis (Yeast Infection)?

Candidiasis (Yeast Infection)

Candidiasis also known as a Yeast Infection, is a disorder caused by an overgrowth of the yeast Candida albicans within the body. Given that yeast resides in the skin, mouth, genital tract, and gastrointestinal tract, it can affect almost every organ. It is important to note that a certain level of candida yeast is a useful, natural part of the human system, helping to balance normal body function. However, when there is an abnormal increase in the amount of yeast, it can secrete a lare volume of toxins into the body, which may weaken the immune system.

Once this happens, a self-perpetuating cycle can develop. The longer the yeast is in the system, the weaker the immune system becomes. The weaker the immune system, the higher the tolerance it has to the yeast itself. This allows the yeast colonies to continue to propagate, releasing more toxins and futher impairing the immune system. The result, as described by Dr. Marjorie Siebert of New York, is a variety of conditions at different levels of severity and discomfort, experienced by over 60 million Americans each year. Candidiasis (Yeast Infection) occurs in both males and females, although it is more prevalent among females.

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Yeast Infection Causes

Common Yeast Infection Causes

Oral Antibiotics are a common cause of increased yeast production. While fighting harmful bacteria, they also kill off much of the normal bacteria in the system as well. Dr. Siebert submits that since yeast has a different biochemical structure than bacteria, it is not affected by the antibiotics. Therefore, when medicines destroy bacteria, the yeast is left with more room to spread and food upon which to grow. This is a significant point because as the yeast infection may manifest itself in various conditions, antibiotics are often used for symptomatic relief of those conditions. The antibiotics then allow the candid (yeast) to reproduce elsewhere, causing recurring yeast infections and other problems.

There are certain physical conditions that make it easier for yeast infections to spread. Pregnancy and menopause create an environment in which estrogen levels vary greatly from the norm, and this may cause a higher rate of yeast infections. And, in general, woman are more susceptible at the end of each month's menstrual flow.Diabetes can also lead to increased risk for candidiasis (yeast infections). Other factors that weaken the immune system and create the perfect environment for yeast infection overgrowth are stress, and a diet containing large amounts of sweets and processed foods. Oral contraceptives can further promote yeast growth.

Yeast Infection Symptoms

Common Yeast Infection Symptoms

Since candida (yeast) can cause multiple systemic illnesses, a whole gamut of symptoms, ranging from the general to those affecting specific areas, are possible. These include low energy and fatigue, irritability, anxiety, fear, depression, "brain fog," memory loss, headaches, lightheadedness, muscle and joint pain (arthritis), sensitivity to chemicals, poor circulation, resulting in consistently cold hands and feet, urinary tract infections, rectal itching, white coating on the tongue or esophagus (thrush), heart palpitations, and irregular pulse.

Symptoms that show up in the digestive tract include gas, bloating, periodic constipation and diarrhea, indigestion, and intestinal cramps.

In the respiratory tract, problems caused by yeast infections range from chronic postnasal drip and coughs to sore throats, colds, and asthma.

The skin can be affected too, with eczema, itching, rashes, acne, and fungal infections.

A variety of gynecological symptoms are possible with a yeast infection, the most common one being a vaginal yeast infection characterized by itching, redness, irritation, and a cheesy, white discharge.

Treat Yeast Infections - An Overview

Yeast Infection Treatment Basics

Rectifying immediate and local symptoms is relatively easy. There are many nonprescription corrective measures that can be used, including natural remedies. However, treating local infections does not address the root of the problem, and the overall condition really should be treated, so that yeast-related infections don't continue to occur.

Currently there is not test that can precisely conclude whether a person has a yeast infection related illness or not. However, some test are considered helpful indicators. A stool study will show whether a person has an abnormally high amount of yeast, given that the intestines serve as a repository for yeast growth. A skin test may also suggest a yeast-related allergy. For vaginal infections, an analysis of the discharge may help to ascertain the presence of a yeast infection.

However, since these test are not completely accurate and will zero in only on the local infection, natural, nondrug remedies that are mild to the system can be tested to see if they alleviate a variety of symptoms.

Treat Yeast Infections With Diet

Cure a Yeast Infection with Diet

A person's approach to food is important, as it can either inhibit or accelerate yeast infection-related problems. In using dietary strategies as a treatment for candida overgrowth, a restricted diet should be followed for several weeks. Actually, this diet can be followed for an indeterminate amount of time, and foods can also be added back eventually. This should be done in a gradual, one-at-a-time manner, to determine a specific food's effect. If yeast infection symptoms recur after a particular food is reintroduced, that food should then be avoided.

The main thing to remember as you follow an anti-candida diet is to exclude sugar. The ideas is to guard against the continued growth of yeast and so fortify the immune system, and since sugar is a main food source for yeast, and does not benefit the immune system, it has to be eliminated. Don't just ban granulated sugar, though; also be on guard against honey, corn and maple syrup, fruit, maltose, artificial sweeteners, fructose, cornstarch, sodas, and lactose (a milk sugar found in dairy products).

A second rule of thumb: Follow a yeast free diet in order to deter further yeast induced maladies. Eliminate fermented, or yeast- and mold- containing products such as breads, including muffins, cake, cookies, and other refined carbohydrates; fruit, including fruit juice and dried fruit; cheese, vinegar; pickled and smoked foods; alcohol; mushrooms; tomato sauce (unless it's prepared with fresh tomatoes); nuts; and food products containing monosodium glutamate and hydrolyzed vegetable protein.

Eat natural, healthy foods. These include whole grains (brown rice, millet, amaranth, guinoa, and barley); fresh vegetables; tofu; miso; plain yogurt; lean meats; fresh fish; and eggs from free-range hens. Yeast infection growth may also be held in check by using small amounts of organic extra virgin olive oil.

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Treat Yeast Infections with Supplements

Supplements that Help Cure Yeast Infections

In addition to diet, natural supplements can be used to specifically target yeast infection illnesses.

Special flora can be taken in order to build up the beneficial bacteria in the system, which will then decrease the yeast. It can be consumed as a powder or as a part of sugar-free yogurt.

Anti fungal, anti- yeast agents can be used to rid the body of excess yeast. These include nonprescription supplements such as citrus seed extract, Kyolic garlic, caprylic acid, and berberine. Prescription remedies such as Nystatin can also be helpful.

Homeopathic candida extract, given in injection form, can help to overturn the immune suppression through introduction of the yeast itself.

In the case of vaginal yeast infections, garlic suppositories are often effective.

To improve total body health and sustain balanced nutrition overall, multi vitamin/mineral supplements are recommended. These will help to increase immune function and deter continued yeast- related infections. They should be yeast- free natural formulas containing zinc, magnesium, vitamins A and B6, folic acid, iron, essential fatty acids, and trace minerals. The following specific supplements may also be tested to see if they are effective.

• Essential Fatty Acids- 3,000 mg of evening primrose, borage, or black currant seed oil daily in three even doses, or one tablespoon of organic flaxseed oil. (Flaxseed oil should never be cooked, and should be kept refrigerated.)
• Vitamin C- Recommended dosage is 3,000 to 15,000 mg daily in three even portions to fight yeast infections.
• B Complex- Used to alleviate stress, the recommended dosage is 50 to 100 mg with each meal.
• Chlorophyll- This can help by cleaning the intestines. Six eight- ounce glasses of vegetable juice are recommended.

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Treat Yeast Infections with Homeopathy

Cure Yeast Infections with Homeotherapy

While homeopathic formulas are chosen according to the symptoms that manifest, they do more than just suppress particular symptoms; they arouse the body's own healing capacity. These particular formulas may activate recovery responses in individuals with a yeast infection:

• Pulsatilla may be indicated where there is a thick, creamy, yellow or green viginal discharge. The woman feels weepy and craves sympathy.
• Silica should be used when the vulva or vagina itch and are sensitive to touch, with a thin or curdly discharge.
• Kreosotum is for severe symptoms. There are heavy discharges, profuse burning, a foul odor, violent itching, and burning and swelling of the labia. Discharges may be yellow and watery.
• Hepera sulph is used for symptoms that resemble those associated with silica, but they are more chronic. There is an itching of the vagina, especially after intercourse, and an odor similar to that of old cheese. Both hepera sulph and silica can be used to treat sores or cysts, especially Bartholin cysts.

How I cure my Yeast Infections with Homeopathy