How Candida Overgrowth can be at the Root of Your Gut Symptoms
Are you struggling with gut health issues like bloating, bad breath, and stomach aches? Do you experience PMS and period pain, causing you to dread each time of the month? If so, you might be dealing with candida overgrowth, a common but often overlooked culprit in gut health problems. As a naturopathic doctor specializing in women's gut and hormone health, I'm here to shed light on candida overgrowth and guide you on a natural path to healing.
In this blog post we’ll cover:
What is Candida Overgrowth?
What clues someone into thinking they may have candida overgrowth?
How can you approach candida overgrowth naturally?
What is Candida Overgrowth?
Candida is a type of yeast that naturally resides in your gut in balance with other microorganisms. However, when this balance is disrupted, candida can overgrow, leading to a range of health issues. Some of the most common symptoms of candida overgrowth include:
Digestive Problems: Bloating, constipation, gas, and diarrhea are frequently associated with candida overgrowth.
Oral Thrush: Bad breath or the presence of white patches in the mouth can be signs of candida in the oral cavity.
Hormonal Imbalances: Candida overgrowth can affect hormone balance, potentially exacerbating period pain and PMS.
Recurrent Infections: Frequent yeast infections or urinary tract infections might be linked to candida overgrowth.
Other symptoms: low energy, low libido, acne, eczema, depression, trouble concentrating, allergies, sensitivities to chemicals and smells (laundry detergent, soaps, perfumes, tobacco smoke), cravings for sugar and bread
Along with these symptoms, there are certain factors in a person’s history that can clue me into a possible candida overgrowth.
Multiple rounds of antibiotics
Been on antibiotics long term (1+ month), possibly for acne
Taken prednisone or other cortisone-type drugs
Current or past use of birth control for 6 or more months
Dealing with chronic stress
Understanding the Connection
The gut is the body's primary defense against harmful invaders. When candida overgrows, it can compromise the gut lining, leading to a condition known as "leaky gut." This allows toxins and undigested food particles to enter the bloodstream, triggering inflammation and a cascade of symptoms. This is why we see symptoms outside of just the gut when dealing with candida.
A Natural Approach to Healing Your Gut From Candida
If you suspect candida overgrowth is at the root of your gut and hormone issues, a natural approach can be highly effective. The first step is to confirm this is the case by doing labs to confirm. Specific lab tests, like stool testing, can tell you if candida is overgrown in the gut.
After testing, the steps are usually as follows:
Dietary Adjustments: A diet low in sugar and refined carbohydrates can help starve candida. Focus on whole foods, lean proteins, and plenty of vegetables.
Biofilm Busters: candida can hang out in biofilms, which is a big web of goo that locks in bacteria or fungus, making an antimicrobial’s job impossible because they can’t reach the agent they need to kill off. Adding in a biofilm buster is an important first step in killing off candida.
Probiotics: Incorporate probiotic-rich foods or supplements to restore a healthy balance of gut bacteria. A specific strain of yeast, Saccharomyces boulardii, has been shown to be helpful in candida by reducing the amount found in the gut and preventing the candida from sticking to the gut walls.
Antifungal Herbs: Certain herbs, such as oregano oil and berberine, have natural antifungal properties.
Stress Management: Chronic stress weakens the immune system and can contribute to candida overgrowth. Implement stress-reduction techniques.
Lifestyle Changes: Proper sleep, regular exercise, and adequate hydration are all important factors in maintaining a healthy gut.
Conclusion
If you're ready to take control of your gut and hormone health naturally, addressing candida overgrowth may be a key step in your journey. Don't let candida overgrowth stand in the way of your well-being. As a naturopathic doctor, I'm here to help you create a personalized plan that's tailored to your unique needs, so you can regain your health and vitality.
I'm committed to helping you achieve optimal health through natural and personalized solutions. Book your consultation with me today to embark on your path to a healthier, happier you. Your journey to healing and balance begins now!
