Definition:
Candidiasis is a fungal (yeast) infection caused by Candida species. While they are usually normal inhabitants of the skin, mucous membranes, gastrointestinal tract, and genitourinary tract, overgrowth of these organisms can cause illness.
- Candidiasis presents most commonly as a vaginal yeast infection, oral thrush, or diaper rash.
- Ethanol is one of the toxins produced by Candida species during the fermentation of sugars in the gut leading to the so-called “auto-brewery syndrome.” This syndrome is characterized by symptoms of drunkenness after the ingestion of carbohydrates which is resolved after treatment with antifungal drugs.
- Candida-related complex (CRC) refers to a non-systemic yeast infection that can cause a wide array of systemic symptoms and contribute to or exacerbate various disease conditions.
- CRC should be suspected in patients with typical symptoms who have a history of recurrent vaginal yeast infections or oral thrush, have received multiple courses of antibiotics, or are taking oral contraceptives or glucocorticoids.
- CRC is a clinical diagnosis since there are no definitive diagnostic tests for it. A positive response to specific antifungal therapy provides retrospective confirmation of the diagnosis.
Common CRC-Related Signs and Symptoms:
- Mood issues such as depression, anxiety
- Hyperactivity, irritability
- Headache
- Difficulty with memory and concentration
- Chronic diarrhea
- Recurrent urinary tract symptoms
- Decreased libido
- Acne
- Dry skin
- Menstrual disturbances
- Premenstrual tension
- Increased sensitivity to foods, inhalants, and drugs
- Worsening symptoms of certain diseases such as multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, thrombocytopenic purpura, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, myasthenia gravis, and schizophrenia
Risk Factors:
- Impaired immune function
- Diabetes
- Pregnancy
- Medications such as antibiotic use, glucocorticoids (steroids) and oral contraceptives
Treatment:
Foods to avoid:
- Sugar and Sweeteners
- Alcohol, wine, and Beer
- Dried Fruit and Fruit Juices
- Fermented Foods and vinegar
- Dairy products
- Other potential offending food groups may include: gluten and grains, beans and other legumes, mushrooms, and starchy vegetables such as squash
- Foods to eat more of include: coconut oil, garlic, cruciferous vegetables, ginger, olive oil, cloves, cinnamon, wild salmon, lemon juice
Certain medications and supplements may be useful in treating candida infections.