Balancing Your Intestinal Flora

Inside each of us (men and women) is a delicate balance of bacteria and yeast that live in our gut. Some of these are considered "good" and some are "bad." When the bad ones outnumber the good ones the result is what we call Candidiasis, commonly known as a yeast infection.

When the yeast starts to grow out of control, it can turn from a non-invasive spore form into a fungus which spreads and may create tiny holes in your intestines. When larger food particles find their way through these holes and enter the bloodstream, one might experience food sensitivities. In fact, a lot of the symptoms of candidiasis are very similar to those of food allergies- bloating, heartburn, nasal congestion, fatigue, headaches and moodiness, to name a few. One might also notice cravings for the exact foods that feed the yeast- sugar specifically, and all the foods that metabolize into sugar in the body (like carbs.)

The other thing this yeast does is produce toxins and hormone-like substances that can mess with your estrogen- progesterone balance and other hormone production.

Western doctors like to prescribe drugs for this problem, one of the popular ones being nystatin. Although this is found to be one of the most effective drugs on the market, it still can take up to two years to bring the yeast under control. If you prefer a more natural solution, you'll be happy to know there are many different things one can do to remedy this situation.

One of my favorites is oregano oil. Just 4 drops taken orally in a little water can reduce symptoms almost immediately. You can find this at your local health food store. The brand I've used is called Nature's Answer, and it's a bit pricey (around $30 for one ounce) but totally worth it. Ann Louise Gittleman, PhD, CNS, author of "Super Nutrition for Women" recommends one by the North American Herb & Spice Company. Oregano oil functions as a germicide that can kill all kinds of fungus and bacteria.

Another good remedy is Pau D'Arco tea, also known as Taheebo. This tea is very mild tasting and is thought to have an antifungal effect. You can find this at the health food store too, loose or in tea bags.

Other things to try:

Avoid yeast-based supplements, excessive carbs, chronic medications like antibiotics, steroids and birth control pills (check with your doctor first, of course), foods that might have yeasts or mold (fruit) or the products of fermentation (most alcohol, vinegar, most condiments, mushrooms, cheese, spices like black pepper and cinnamon, dried herbs, herb tea, fruit juices, and melons).

Make sure to eat lots of fresh garlic.

Acidophilus supplements- JarrowDophilus was one recommended to me by a naturopathic doctor.

Eat plain low fat yogurt. (Not the kind with the sugary fruit in it!)

Take extra supplements. Often, people with candida are deficient in vitamin B6 and magnesium. One can find vitamin B6 in foods like walmuts, peanuts, fish, avocados and soybeans. You can get magnesium by eating green veggies, seafood and nuts. Another good one is biotin which you can find in eggs (the yolks), beans and nuts.

Make sure you're getting adequate amounts of essential amino acids and fatty acids to keep your immune system strong.

It may take some time to get the yeast under control, but with consistent good nutrition and careful avoidance of trigger foods and substances, it IS possible. Remember that each cell in your body is constantly being replaced and human beings are naturally geared towards wellness. Any damage done by these nasty fungi can be reversed. It's time to take back your power!