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Health Issues Linked to Candida Yeast Infections
DESCRIPTION:
Candida yeast infections are fungal infections
caused by the candida species. There are more than 150 species of known
Candida, but only eight are considered to be pathogenic to humans.
Candida normally lives on the skin, in the gastrointestinal tract, and
in the female genital tract without causing an infection.
A Candida yeast infection usually only develops
when the immune system is weakened and the body's normal checks do not
keep it under control. The use of antibiotics can also increase the
risk of Candidiasis as it destroys the good bacteria in the body that
helps to keep the yeast in check. Immunosuppressive drugs increase the
risk as they suppress the immune system.
Vaginal Candidiasis is more common in pregnant
women, obese women, and women with diabetes. In addition, women who
take hormone replacement therapy after menopause increase their risk of
yeast infections.
Symptoms of a yeast infection generally include
irritation and vaginal discharge. Redness and swelling may also be
present. Occasionally, severe itching and burning may accompany a yeast
infection.
-- Causes of Yeast (candidiasis) Infections --
Predisposing factors to Candida overgrowth: Altered bowel flora,
Decreased digestive secretions, Dietary factors (high sugar diet),
Drugs (particularly antibiotics), Impaired immunity, Impaired liver
function, Nutrient deficiency, Prolonged antibiotic use, Underlying
disease states.
Prolonged antibiotic use is believed to be the most important factor
in the development of chronic candidiasis. Antibiotics suppress the
immune system and the normal intestinal bacteria that prevent yeast
over-growth, strongly promoting the proliferation of candida.
There is little argument that, when used appropriately, antibiotics
save lives. However, there is also little argument that antibiotics are
seriously overused. The widespread use and abuse of antibiotics is
becoming increasingly alarming, not only because of the chronic
candidiasis epidemic, but also due to the development of "superbugs"
that are resistant to currently available antibiotics. According to the
World Health Organization, we are coming dangerously close to arriving
at a "postantibiotic era", in which many infectious diseases will once
again become almost impossible to treat.
-- The Nutritional Approach --
Foods that have been proven to help with Yeast (Candida) and Fungal Infections:
Yogurt with probiotic cultures, Garlic and Flax seeds.
Avoid refined flour and refined sugars
and large amounts of honey, maple syrup, fruit juice, milk and other
dairy products, alcoholic beverages, cheeses, dried fruits, and peanuts.
Nutrients that have been proven to help with yeast infections and candida:
Digestive Enzymes, Cat's Claw, Olive Leaf, Garlic, Tea Tree Oil topical treatments, Grapefruit Seed.
Exercises that have been proven to help with yeast infections:
In many cases yeast infections are caused by a weak immune system. A
daily exercise routine will help promote a strong immune system which
will help you to prevent and over`come infections such as a yest
infection. |
