It is only recently (the last 5-7 years) has come to light in the traditional medical field, that yeast infections, more specifically candida, can become a systemic infection that affects several of the bodily systems. Unfortunately this diagnosis is probably more common that is currently thought. The symptoms of a systemic yeast infection can be mild, moderate or severe and can cause irritations or full fledged medical conditions that negatively affect the lives of individuals.
Systemic yeast infections are commonly caused by Candida albicans which is a fungus that is present in everyone’s intestinal tract. This infection is normally kept under control by other good bacteria that also resides in the digestive tract. However, when antibiotics or chemotherapy agents are administered they will kill off the good bacteria allowing the fungus to grow out of control.
As the yeast proliferates they change from a simple and relatively harmless form to a more invasive form that develops rhizomes or tiny arm like structures which are able to embed into the walls of the intestines. These little holes allow other toxins and yeast to migrate out of the gut and into the blood supply. This leaky gut also allows other proteins to enter the blood stream that may account for the variety of food and environmental allergies exhibited by those who suffer from systemic yeast infections.
The most common places for Candida to appear is the vaginal area, oral thrush or as a fungal sinus infection. But Candida albicans can also spread inside the body and become a more systemic problem. Some of the more generalized symptoms that individuals will experience are fatigue, lethargy, headaches, hypoglycemia, respiratory problems or chemical sensitivities. They may also suffer from diarrhea, constipation, rectal itching, flatulence or food sensitivities.
Some women are more prone to yeast vaginitis, menstrual or premenstrual problems. Other women have increased symptoms of PMS or chronic Urinary Tract Infections. Many people who have system yeast infections will also have dermatological symptoms such as acne or eczema. Some individuals will also complain of confusion, irritability, memory loss or depression. Others have trouble with insomnia or short attention spans.
Because the systemic yeast affects most parts of the body it is no surprise that there is evidence that people will also suffer from illnesses that are immune mediated. This means that the immune system is compromised to the point that other illnesses or diseases are allowed to take over. Those who have been treated for system yeast infections have found relief from multiple sclerosis, arthritis, systemic lupus, scleroderma, sarcoidosis or thrombocytopenic purpura.
As comprehensive as the symptoms of systemic yeast are a simple stool sample can reveal if there is an overgrowth of yeast in the digestive tract which leads the practitioner to believe that there is also an overgrowth in other systems of the body. Treatment for an overgrowth of fungus in the body is varied depending upon the practitioner you visit. All will recommend dietary changes that are high in vegetables, moderate proteins and virtually no simple sugars. Ideally they want it to be free of artificial sweeteners, colors and dyes. Many practitioners will also recommend a yeast free diet for the first phase of healing. This means avoiding all yeast containing foods such as beer, wine, breads, B-complex vitamins unless labeled yeast free, vinegar, and commercially prepared foods. Avoiding all concentrated sugars which feed the yeast growth in the body and all mold-containing foods such as mushrooms, soy sauce, peanuts, malt, cheese or bacon is also recommended.
Some practitioners will also recommend an alternating round of anti-fungal drugs over a period of months. The drugs will be alternated every couple of weeks so the fungus doesn’t develop an immunity to the medications. Other practitioners will recommend other more natural antifungal agents such as bearberry and berberine.
Repopulation of the intestines with good bacteria is accomplished with the use of probiotics. This helps to repopulate the colon and intestines with friendly yeast as well. Essential fatty acids such as those found in fish oil, flaxseed or borage seed play a role in the biochemical processes. And a strong vitamin and mineral supplement is important in strengthening the immune system.
If possible it is recommended that individuals avoid using birth control pills, antibiotics and steroids. These medications will alter the immune system and change the way the body acts and reacts with yeast. Stress is also a contributing factor to the proliferation of yeast and the decline of the immune system. It’s important to incorporate a regular exercise routine that fits your lifestyle. This will help to improve circulation, energy levels and help to reduce stress.
Most practitioners recommend that patients remain on this regimen for anytime from 6 to 12 months to clear the body of the excess yeast. If just a small amount of the invasive yeast is left then it will begin to regrow once the diet and supplements revert to their pretreatment phase.
Download “The Better and Healthy You” – Report for FREE!
Download “Massage Therapy Essentials” – Report for FREE!
Download “Quit Smoking Club Secrets Report” For FREE!
Sleep Problems? Download Our FREE Report!
Discover How EASY It Is To Lose WEIGHT
Mail this post
