Yeast: A Candid(a) Approach

No energy, bloated, aching, can’t lose weight…do any of these symptoms sound like you? Let me tell you a little secret…these are just a few of the LIFE-ALTERING daily symptoms associated with elevated yeast (candida albicans) in our body. Yeast…simple and necessary… yet devastating if not treated and controlled!
Naturally produced by the body, yeasts are single-celled organisms that live on the skin surface and inside the digestive tract. Candida albicans is one form of these microscopic yeast organisms. While yeast is vital for the normal functioning of our digestive system, an overgrowth of yeast results in an imbalance of our body’s healthy flora (beneficial bacteria). An over abundance of yeast can be linked to our diet, antibiotics, some medications, or a weakened immune system. Regardless of the source, elevated yeast can alter our life EVERYDAY. Symptoms associated with an elevated yeast level can include:

*Difficulty losing weight or weight gain
*Abdominal bloating, pain or gas
*Dry mouth, bleeding gums, cracked tongue
*Thrush
*Constipation, diarrhea, mucous in stools
*Persistent vaginal itching or burning
*Unusual menstrual cramping
*recurrent urinary tract infections
*Joint or muscle pain/swelling
*Athlete’s foot
*headaches
*Fatigue
*Mild depression, poor concentration, mood swings
*Craving sweets or breads
*Bad breath

While antibiotics and some medications are unavoidable, the most effective way to avoid an overgrowth of yeast is to adjust your diet and to use supplements that support a healthy Candida level. Candida thrives on sugar; therefore, limit your sugar intake (including honey, molasses, syrup, fruit, fruit juices, sweeteners and refined carbohydrates). Also avoid or limit your use of mold and fermented foods (catsup, mustard, vinegar, cheese, buttermilk) and yeast products (they can irritate existing yeast sensitivity). While it may not be realistic to avoid all of these food items, being aware of your food choices and the impact they can have on your day to day health, will lead to smarter selections and substitutions.
Health supplements can help control a “normal” yeast level. When searching for a health supplement, a few key ingredients to look for include Oregano Extract (antioxidant and antifungal), Caprylic Acid (dissolves the cell membrane of yeast), Protease (assists in digestion of protein), Black Walnut Hulls (antifungal, antiseptic, and parasitic) and Cellulase (removes undigested fiber). The combination of these powerful ingredients can assist with restoring and maintaining a healthy Candida level.

This “minuscule” organism can become a gigantic threat to your everyday life!
Recognizing the signs, symptoms and lifestyle choices associated with yeast overgrowth is the first step to treatment.
Remember…its your life…your health…live well!