Candida Diets

Candida is a yeast that lives in various parts of the human body system such as mouth, throat, intestine, urinary tract and vagina. In most cases, Candida does not cause any harmful effects, as their population is balanced with other microorganisms. However, due to some abnormal health conditions, the growth of Candida may increase to an unmanageable extent. In such a condition, it causes several symptoms, which are referred to as Candidiasis or simply Candida. Among the many species of Candida, Candida albicans is the most virulent one that causes systemic candidiasis.

Candida Infection

Overgrowth of Candida can cause infections of the skin, nails, eyes, lungs, heart, kidney, vagina and even, brain. The main causes of Candida infection are poor diet plan, weakened immune system and loss of probiotic bacteria (due to recurrent use of antibiotics). Symptoms of Candida infection differs according to area of infection. Thus, proper diagnosis is essential for receiving correct treatment. For managing the symptoms, the doctor may prescribe fungicide cream and other oral or intravenous medications. For better results, medication treatment should be supplemented with certain Candida diets.

Candida Diets

The main objective of Candida diet plan is to control the growth of Candida and improve the immune system and digestive health. Candida diet comprises food ingredients that are known to starve the yeast, thus preventing their growth and reproduction. As a part of the initial treatment plan, one should opt for detoxification of the body, so as to remove the toxic chemicals generated by Candida.

Candida diets should contain approximately 30 percent protein, 40 percent carbohydrates (preferably complex ones) and 30 percent fat. The growth of yeast is favored when the body is enriched with sugar. As simple carbohydrates are converted into sugar very quickly, they are not preferred for Candida infected patients. A Candida diet should include foods such as vegetables (non-starchy), whole-grain cereals, seeds, nuts, yogurt and protein foods (fish, egg, chicken, red meat). Garlic is one of the most effective natural remedies for Candida infection.

All types of food that contain refined sugar should be avoided such as white and brown sugar, honey, syrup, sorghum, etc. Fruit and fruit juices should also be avoided, as they contain natural sugars that promote the growth of Candida. The patient should limit the consumption of yeast-based foods like breads, rolls, pastries and muffins. Mushroom, vinegar and alcohol are strictly not recommended for Candida patients. Other restricted foods include peanut, coffee, tea, aged cheese, processed meat and packaged foods.

Initially, the patient may suffer from influenza-like symptoms after consuming Candida diets, which is due to the chemical toxins secreted by the yeast. Following this diet plan may also result in weight loss. A strict Candida diet plan, if followed, for about three months will treat the symptoms of Candida infection. When the symptoms subside, one can switch on to the regular balanced diet. However, make sure that unhealthy habits are avoided, otherwise the symptoms of Candida infection may reappear. A long-term change in lifestyle and food habits are the best options to prevent overgrowth of Candida.