Candida – Thrush

Vaginal candida is also referred to as a vaginal yeast infection or thrush is an overgrowth of normal fungus inhabiting the vagina. Candida can also be found in the mouth, throat and gastrointestinal tract. Excess development may result from certain types of life style and can be an indicator of compromised immune status. Classified as fungus, these yeast organisms are free of chlorophyll and therefore cannot by photosynthesis make their own food from sunlight; hence they depend on their host for nourishment. They use oxygen for metabolism. Yeasts such as Candida are often secondary invaders in other infections. Traditional beliefs hold that those most susceptible to Candida infections are infants (thrush), women (vaginitis), persons who have undergone extended antibiotic therapy or used birth control pills, and postoperative patients, Possible Causes

• The use of Antibiotics
• Birth Control Pills
• Cortisone
• High Sugar & or fat in the diet Yeast in the diet
• Insufficient supply of nutrients
• A genetic deficiency of Immunoglobulin A
• Drugs or stress induced immune depression and related diseases
• Hypothyroidism – this is a condition that is common, as a low body temperature permits easier and faster growth of candida

Conventional Medicine Treatment Candida is treated by either oral or vaginal anti-fungal medicines. Natural Medicine Treatment Candida overgrowth occurs during stressful periods or states of lowered immune potential, and is a common parameter associated with food and chemical hypersensitivities, as well as many other common illnesses. Doses of 500 mg of biotin may be taken two or three times a day. A high fibre diet is helpful to increase the transit time of metabolic toxins produced by the organism, and nutritional supplements are very important to bolster the immune capacities. High potency vaginal pessary probiotics are a very effective naturopathic treatment. Self Help

• Don’t use bubble baths, perfumed soaps or vaginal deodorants
• Wear cotton underwear whenever possible
• Wear skirts and dresses rather than tight jeans, or lycra leggings.
• Avoid wearing tights