Yeast in the Body: Infections and Imbalance

Yeast (Candida)

The presence of a yeast imbalance in the body can cause many systemic problems. Yeast is a substance which occurs in nature, but not all of it is good for the body. The type that generally causes an imbalance, along with the associated problems for people, is called Candida albicans. Candida is a single-celled organism that can be the root of inflammation in the body. It lives on sugar and is able to deprive a patient’s body of its essential nutrients. In general, the body can combat candida with the help of beneficial bacteria and flora. When there is overgrowth of the detrimental yeast, however, it can cause many problems. Not all yeasts are bad. However, a poor diet and other causes for imbalance can add up over time and eventually lead to trouble.

Yeast types include nutritional yeast, brewer’s yeast, baker’s yeast, and candida. The latter is the one of a problematic variety, especially in patients who follow diets with poor nutrition, such as ones which are heavy in sugar, refined carbohydrates, and starches. Other types of yeast, such as nutritional yeast, are actually very good for the body when it is consumed in moderation. This might include using the yeast as a seasoning or ingredient in a recipe.¹

Infections and Imbalance

Some of the problems that can come as symptomatic results from unchecked yeast growth include upset stomach, genital infections/itching, hormone imbalance, dandruff and eczema, fatigue, headaches, and poor focus.² Other conditions that could also occur from the overgrowth of this fungus, include infections such as thrush and skin infections. Skin infections can be especially problematic in those patients who are already plagued by the conditions of compromised immunity, diabetes, and obesity. Thrush affects the mouth, and the corners of the mouth can be impacted by angular cheilitis. Symptoms such as bad breath, a white coating on the tongue are probable signs of the overgrowth of candida in the mouth. The diaper regions of babies can also get infection rashes from the candida fungus.³

Infections, as noted earlier, can come in a variety of forms. Some of the conditions are more obviously connected to candida. These include intestinal cramps, bloating, gas, diarrhea, rashes, itching, and genital yeast infections. Lesser known connections to this microscopic fungus might be bladder infections. Psychological disorders may also have a yeast component. Patients who experience symptoms of irritability, decreased libido, and depression, might find that even these psychological symptoms could have been caused by a case of yeast overgrowth. There is the potential for allergies and food sensitivities, thyroid problems, fatigue, and menstrual irregularities to also have origins in candida problems.⁴

Antibiotics also have the potential to trigger yeast issues. Antibiotics are an important factor in fighting infections and bad bacteria. Unfortunately, they kill not only the bad bacteria present in the body but also the good bacteria. The overuse of antibiotics, whether it be that they have been used over the course of a long time or multiple courses over a short period, could leave the body deficient in good bacteria and vulnerable to candida.⁵

Prevention and Treatments

Patients who put effort into following a regular hygiene routine, help to maintain a healthy immune system, and practice healthy dietary habits, can make a difference in the prevention of the onset of some infections. Keeping the skin dry, wearing loose-fitting and breathable clothing, losing weight if it is necessary, controlling blood sugar, and employing the use of some antifungal ointments and creams, such as Monistat, can also help contribute to prevention as well. There are also oral antifungal medications that can treat severe infections, such as Diflucan. Even so, these fungal infections may recur and require ongoing treatment.⁶

Dietary changes are important to combat overgrowth. Good nutrition can include regularly taking probiotics (lactobacillus, acidophilus), to help maintain the presence of what is considered to be “good” bacteria in the gut. The good bacteria help to combat the bad bacteria and yeast. Fermented foods and yogurt, fiber, and even supplements can make a difference. Some antifungal herbs include thyme and raw garlic.⁷ There are full yeast-fighting diets available online which suggest foods to avoid and supplements and dietary changes to add. Patients should also consult their doctor about any radical dietary changes or major elimination of foods from the diet.⁸

To maintain alignment, improve the immune system, and decrease stress, chiropractic and massage can also be beneficial. There are complementary and alternative medicine, or CAM, supplements and treatments available that are natural alternatives to traditional medical care. Chiropractors could also be the ones to suggest such supplements and dietary changes for the patient to try in order to combat the overgrowth of candida. These lifestyle changes could also help the patient to manage their overall health through natural solutions when invasive treatments are not absolutely necessary.