July 6, 2022
CANDIDA is a common yeast found in the mouth, intestines and vagina.
Candida overgrowth causes leaky gut where food particles leak into the blood stream and trigger a stress response in your body (inflammation)! As a result we can develop food sensitivities.
Some common causes of candida infections include:
Antibiotics and NSAIDs
Birth control
Sugar intake
Excessive carbs
High stress
Poor gut bacteria and immune system
Iron and zinc deficiencies
Undigested food rotting in the gut
Alcohol
Unusual weight gain and fluctuations
A very common symptom of candida overgrowth is weight gain and fat deposits especially around the waist. This happens regardless of the person’s physical activity level and nutrition. Often men/women will report their weight fluctuates by 3-5 lbs daily. I have seen clients drop 8-10 lbs in a month after treating candida!
Digestive issues
Common issues such as bloating, irregular bowel movements, constipation or diarrhea may be due to candida overgrowth.
Recurring UTIs, yeast infections and cysts
Vaginal and urinary tract infections are due to candida overgrowth. Most women ‘treat’ them with antibiotics which only temporarily reduce the symptoms. As mentioned earlier, these antibiotics (literally meaning”life-killing”) also kill good bacteria which eventually encourages candida to grow. Infections such as Athlete’s Foot are also caused by candida.
Chronic fatigue
Having a candida overgrowth weakens the immune system and drains the body of energy. Chronic fatigue (fatigue lasting more than 3 months regardless of amount of sleep) includes issues such as headaches, joint pain, frequent cough/colds, etc.
Mood disorders and brain fog
Challenges such as irritability, feeling anxious/depressed, poor memory and focus and brain fog are also linked to candida overgrowth.
Strong carb/sugar cravings
Given that the person is eating enough proteins, fibers and maintaining adequate intake of magnesium, if he/she is regularly craving carbohydrates and simple sugars, that is a good indicator of a possible candida overgrowth.
Skin issues like eczema, hives, psoriasis
Skin issues are linked to food sensitivities caused by candida overgrowth.
Random aches and pains
People with candida overgrowth usually complain of headaches, muscle and joint pains.
