Eliminating Candida Naturally

Candida is a type of yeast that normally lives on the skin and in areas such as the mouth, digestive tract, and vagina. Its presence alone does not mean that an infection or harmful overgrowth is occurring.

Under certain circumstances, Candida can multiply and cause a localized infection known as candidiasis. Common forms include vaginal yeast infections, oral thrush, and Candida infections of the skin. Symptoms depend on where the infection occurs, and many Candida symptoms overlap with other conditions.At Dr. Lana Wellness, we help patients understand their symptoms, identify possible contributing factors, and build an individualized nutrition and wellness plan to eliminate candida naturally.

What is Candidiasis?

Candidiasis is an infection caused by Candida yeast. It most commonly affects the vagina, mouth, throat, or skin.

Candida may also be detected in the digestive tract without causing an overt “infection.” Because Candida commonly lives in the body, the presence of Candida on a stool or microbiome test does not automatically explain bloating, fatigue, brain fog, cravings, or other nonspecific symptoms, although it does give your provider a great place to start in regards to building a protocol. A thorough assessment should consider the location and pattern of symptoms, medical history, medications, blood-sugar regulation, diet, digestive health, and other possible diagnoses.

Types and Symptoms of Candida Infections

Vaginal Candidiasis

Vaginal candidiasis, commonly called a vaginal yeast infection, may cause:

• Vaginal or vulvar itching

• Redness, irritation, or swelling

• Abnormal, odorless vaginal discharge, which may be thick and white or grey, similar to a cottage cheese consistency

• Pain or burning during sexual intercourse

• Burning or discomfort with urination

These symptoms can also occur with bacterial vaginosis, sexually transmitted infections, dermatitis, and other vaginal conditions. Recurrent or persistent symptoms should be properly evaluated rather than repeatedly self-addressed.

Oral Thrush

Candida infection of the mouth or throat may cause:

• White patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, or palate

• Redness or soreness

• A cotton-like feeling in the mouth

• Changes in taste

• Cracking at the corners of the mouth

• Pain or difficulty swallowing

Thrush is more likely in infants, older adults, people using inhaled corticosteroids, denture wearers, and people with diabetes or weakened immune systems.

Cutaneous Candidiasis

Candida can cause a rash in warm, moist areas of the skin, including beneath the breasts, within abdominal folds, around the groin, or between the fingers or toes.

Symptoms may include:

• A red or inflamed rash

• Itching, soreness, or burning

• Cracking or peeling skin

• Small surrounding bumps or pustules

Because other fungal infections, eczema, contact dermatitis, and bacterial infections can look similar, an examination may be needed.

Invasive Candidiasis

Invasive candidiasis occurs when Candida enters the bloodstream or internal organs. It is a serious medical condition that primarily affects hospitalized or medically vulnerable patients, including people with central venous catheters, recent major surgery, intensive-care stays, chemotherapy, or significant immune suppression.

Invasive candidiasis is different from common vaginal, oral, skin, or digestive complaints. Fever, chills, confusion, low blood pressure, rapid breathing, or severe illness require immediate medical care.

What Increases The Risk of Candida Infections?

The factors associated with candidiasis vary according to the location of the infection. They may include:

• Antibiotic use: Antibiotics can alter bacterial communities that normally help limit Candida growth. Some people develop vaginal or oral candidiasis during or shortly after antibiotic treatment. 

• Diabetes and elevated blood sugar: Poorly controlled diabetes can increase the risk of vaginal, oral, and skin Candida infections. 

• Pregnancy and hormonal changes: Vaginal yeast infections are more common during pregnancy. 

• Medications and immune function: Corticosteroids, chemotherapy, immune-suppressing medications, and certain medical conditions can increase susceptibility to candidiasis. 

• Warm, moist skin environments:  Sweating, tight clothing, skin folds, and prolonged moisture can create conditions that favor cutaneous Candida infections.
  

Can Candida Cause Digestive Symptoms?

Candida naturally exists in the gastrointestinal tract, but digestive symptoms such as bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, fatigue, and food cravings are not always specific to Candida. These GI symptoms  may also be associated with:

• Irritable bowel syndrome

• Constipation

• Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth

• Celiac disease

• Food intolerances

• Inflammatory bowel disease

• Thyroid disorders

• Anemia or nutrient deficiencies

• Blood-sugar fluctuations

• Medication side effects

• Stress and disrupted sleep

Nutrition Support for Candida and Recurrent Yeast Infections

• Balanced meals Meals that combine protein, fiber-rich carbohydrates, vegetables, and healthy fats can support steadier energy and blood-sugar regulation. 

• Reduced added sugar when appropriate:  Frequent intake of sugary drinks, sweets, and highly refined snacks can make blood-sugar regulation more difficult. Reducing excess added sugar may support metabolic health, particularly for patients with insulin resistance or diabetes.

• Adequate fiber and plant variety:  Vegetables, fruit, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains provide fiber and nutrients that support digestive health. 

• Individualized probiotic and supplement guidance: Our team will provide specific and targeted nutrition recommendations tailored for your specific needs and results. 

• Identifying unnecessary restrictions: Highly restrictive Candida diets can lead to inadequate calorie, carbohydrate, fiber, and micronutrient intake. They can also make eating more stressful without addressing the actual cause of symptoms.