Candida is a yeast, which is also a type of fungus, that normally lives on the skin and in areas of the body, including the mouth, throat, vagina, and digestive system. However, in cases where candida grows out of control or in areas of the body where it shouldn’t be present, it can form a fungal infection called candidiasis or Candida albicans.
Candida albicans causes conditions such as oral thrush or vaginal yeast infections.
What Causes Candida Overgrowth?
Candida overgrowth is most common in immunocompromised patients, those with uncontrolled diabetes, or those who have recently or frequently used antibiotics since antibiotics can kill off both good and harmful bacteria, unbalancing yeast levels.
Additionally, certain medications, high levels of stress, and increased alcohol intake may lead to candida overgrowth.
How Does the Candida Diet Work?
The candida diet aims to limit yeast and sugars to reduce the amount of candida in the gut and restore balance to the bacteria and yeast that live in your body. In addition, the candida diet focuses on foods that reduce inflammation and regulate blood sugar.
A complete candida cleanse often lasts four to six weeks and prioritizes eating lean proteins, healthy fats, and non-starchy vegetables. Followers should avoid:
- Processed, refined-flour, and refined-sugar foods
- Gluten
- Sweeteners
- Dairy
- Sugary foods, like ice cream and candy
- Mushrooms
- Alcohol, especially beer, wine, and hard ciders
While following a diet to increase fiber, eliminate junk food, and drink more water is almost universally beneficial to your health, you should always check with your primary physician before starting a diet, especially one that restricts carbohydrates.
Most patients who follow a candida diet for the recommended four to six weeks report a lift in brain fog, bloating, indigestion, fatigue, nausea, and gas.
Suppose that you’re concerned about restoring balance to your gut microbiome and reducing or eliminating digestive concerns, aches and pains, and other issues that may stem from candida overgrowth. In that case, a candida diet may be worth considering.
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