Originally published October 19 2011
Raise awareness of Candida infection
by James Schreiber
(NaturalNews) Candida infection has been a misunderstood condition, sometimes described as a "myth". However, as the public awareness of chronic candidiasis grows, there`s an increasing number of doctors who can accurately diagnose it, bringing hope for people suffering from constant fatigue, digestive issues, yeast infections, and other symptoms associated with this little known and frequently misdiagnosed problem.
Traditionally, Candida was considered to be a form of a localized yeast overgrowth, but it has become clear that the infection is much more complex. The actual manifestation of the disease is frequently characterized by the presence of overwhelming tiredness, recurring yeast infections, and digestive problems. Besides an amplified "toxic" feeling, patients can also experience various neurological symptoms, including sugar cravings, headaches, mental fog, and poor short-term memory.
The condition can have multiple causes, including antibiotic overuse, immunocompromising drugs ( such as anabolic steroids), hormonal imbalance (birth control pills), high-sugar diets, weakened immune system (especially in cancer and AIDS patients), and excessive stress.
In his book published in 1983, Dr. William Crook set the basic criteria for a diagnosis: a history of repeated or prolonged courses of antibacterial drugs or steroids, taking "the pill" for more than three years, and the presence of the aforementioned symptoms in combination with unusual sensitivity to chemical odors such as perfumes and colognes.
There`s no lab test or X-ray that can 100% tell that a person has a Candida overgrowth, and many allopathic doctors are not trained in treating or diagnosing the disease. However, a trained naturopath or integrative MD can provide an accurate diagnosis based on the presence of symptoms, patient history, stool test, and/or a trial of an anti-candida regime.
The latest trend in treating Candida infection is using a multi-faceted approach to control or manage the disease. Many alternative health experts recommend using probiotics and antifungal supplements in combination with a low glycemic eating plan, also known as the Candida diet. The diet restricts the consumption of simple carbohydrates and processed foods, while promoting fresh vegetables, fruit, gluten-free grains, and high-quality animal products.
Besides working with your doctor, it is also recommended to reduce your stress levels with strategies such as yoga, meditation or deep breathing. Exercise regularly and don`t forget to get plenty of sleep and rest. Following these simple steps will give your body the chance to heal and repair naturally.
Sources:
http://www.ecandida.com/candida-cleanse/
http://www.yeastconnection.com/fighting_diet...
http://www.naturalnews.com/030552_Candida_he...
About the author
James Schreiber was a long time sufferer of Candida albicans - a little known and frequently misdiagnosed condition that causes seemingly unrelated symptoms such as chronic fatigue, digestive problems and flu-like symptoms. After completely transforming his diet and lifestyle to triumph over Candida infection, Schreiber made educating people on how to better cope with the disease a mission. He shares the secrets of his success at http://www.ecandida.com
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