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Yeast Infection Protocol Recommended
Products People may sometimes develop a Candida infection after taking antibiotics (Still et al. 1995; Witsell et al. 1995). The antibiotics kill the bacteria that normally keep the Candida under control, allowing the Candida organism to grow unchecked. Pregnant women, diabetics, and obese people are also prone to Candida infections. Corticosteroids given after organ transplantation can also promote growth of Candida.
Skin folds, including
the navel and anus. Symptoms include a red rash with patchy areas oozing
whitish fluid. Pus may also appear. The area will itch or burn. Perlèche
is a Candida infection at the corners of the mouth that creates cracks
and tiny cuts. It is often caused by ill-fitting dentures. CANDIDIASIS AND THE YEAST SYNDROME Most conventional physicians restrict a diagnosis of candidial infection to the previously mentioned conditions. When there is doubt, cultures may be obtained to prove the diagnosis and to check for susceptibility to antifungal agents. Conventional physicians may also encounter the particularly vexing problem of women who have multiple vaginal yeast infections that are difficult to control. Many of these women are treated with repeated courses of potent antifungal drugs, often without relief. Another more controversial perspective was popularized by Dr. W. G. Crook (1986, 1999). Dr. Crook used the term "candidiasis" or "yeast syndrome" to refer to a syndrome in which the predominant features are fatigue, a generalized malaise, gastrointestinal complaints, recurrent chronic infections, allergies, skin problems, decreased concentration, depression, irritability, and craving for sweets or carbohydrates. The underlying cause is purported to be an overabundance of yeast in the bowel and perhaps elsewhere. While this theory has not been investigated and subjected to the rigorous scrutiny of peer review, there is certainly substantial clinical and anecdotal evidence that this syndrome exists and appears to be connected with the overuse of antibiotics. Many patients who have been diagnosed with yeast syndrome do get better when they follow a diet essentially devoid of sugar, yeast-containing substances, and wheat. If you utilize the questionnaire following this protocol, which comes from Dr. Crook, you may better understand the problem. Physicians experienced with this condition can also look for Candida antibody levels in the blood and do an ELISA-ACT test for T-cell mediated allergy. (See the Allergies protocol for a discussion of this very useful test.) It is also useful to check the acidity of the stomach and the alkalinity of the first part of the duodenum with a Heidelburg test. This is a noninvasive test utilizing a small capsule, containing a sensitive pH probe and radio transmitter, that is swallowed by the patient. A radio receiver picks up the signals and measures the perspective values. The capsule passes harmlessly into the test probe afterlife. Abnormalities of stomach and pancreatic secretions can be corrected with the proper supplements.
Sugar Most people have a bout with a candidial infection at one time or another in their lives. This discussion is directed to the patients that either have recurrent infections or suffer from yeast syndrome. It is very important to screen for the more obvious and common predisposing factors like diabetes or chronic steroid use. The challenge is to look for more subtle problems that impair immunity. One must realize that there is a vicious cycle, especially in yeast syndrome. A person may become predisposed to a yeast infection because of antibiotic overuse. Then when the syndrome takes hold, immune function is further impaired, making it all the more difficult to treat. Therefore, based on the clinical experience of many physicians, it is fair to say that anyone suffering from either recurrent yeast infections or the yeast syndrome should adhere to most of the suggestions that follow, especially with respect to dietary changes.
Some authorities suggest that decreasing honey and fruit juice during the period of recovery is sufficient. Many physicians feel that people may need to eliminate these foods entirely during the recovery period and reintroduce them slowly following recovery. The same may be said for dairy products. Yeast-containing products are a definite no. The reader is referred to Dr. Crook (1986, 1999) for an exhaustive description of the proper diet. In addition, as mentioned, consideration should be given to supplemental hydrochloric acid and pancreatic enzymes if indicated. Many readers are probably thinking "how long must I stay on this diet?" The truth is that as far as sugar is concerned, one should never resume its use. The other foods may often be reintroduced slowly. Again, it is wise to work with a physician experienced with recurrent yeast infections. It may also be said that as a person gets more attuned to their body's health a certain sensitivity develops letting one know that eating certain things leaves one feeling "not right." This question is the same as when a patient asks how long they should avoid using an injured limb. The answer, of course, is "when it no longer hurts!" Your body knows what is right and wrong for it. It always knew. One just has to relearn by self-observation. Often a person will report that after following this diet for 2 to 4 weeks they begin to feel worse. This is most probably a result of the yeast dying off and releasing toxins. It is for this reason that the diet should include plenty of fiber to ensure proper elimination. Additionally, 2-4 weeks of a proper diet should be undertaken before initiating treatment with antifungal agents, natural or otherwise.
The intake of bifido bacteria concentrate capsules every day can dramatically increase the quantity of beneficial bacteria in the gut to help fight Candida infections. Acidophilus bacteria also can help to fight Candida in the upper intestinal tract. Bifido bacteria (a beneficial bacteria located in the lower intestines) feed on a special sugar called fructo-oligosaccharides found in a product called NutraFlora. One teaspoon (4 grams) a day of fructo-oligosaccharide promotes the proliferation of friendly bifido bacteria in the gut (Howard et al. 1995; Oyarzabal et al. 1995; Buddington et al. 1996). Studies have shown that the daily ingestion of 150 mL of yogurt enriched with live Lactobacillus acidophilus is associated with an increased colonization of friendly bacteria in the rectum and vagina (Shalev et al. 1996). This results in reduced episodes of bacterial vaginitis. Yogurt is often used by women with chronic vaginal Candida infections (Hilton 1992). This should not be used for treating yeast syndrome or for those with known milk sensitivity.
Other supplements to consider are goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) and volatile oil from oregano (Hammer et al. 1999). Both have antifungal properties. Goldenseal is probably best taken as an infusion such as in a tea bag or about 4 grams, 3 times a day in capsule form. Oregano oil comes in an enteric-coated capsule to protect you from a bad bout of dyspepsia (heartburn.) Take 1 capsule on an empty stomach 3 times a day. A possibility for treating a yeast infection is a subfraction of whey protein called lactoferrin. Several studies have found lactoferrin to inhibit a wide range of gram positive and gram negative bacteria, yeasts, and even certain intestinal parasites. C albicans, in particular, has been proven to be inhibited by lactoferrin (Percival, 1997; Kuwata et al., 1998). One to two capsules of lactoferrin should be taken daily, with or without meals. Although research has not yet proven orthomolecular therapies to be useful for this, some physicians who practice complementary therapies administer nutritional intravenous vitamins, particularly vitamin C, during the recovery period (Wu et al. 1998). Clinically, patients seem to feel stronger more quickly when this is done. Studies have demonstrated the antifungal properties of tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) against a wide range of fungal isolates including species of Candida (Hammer et al. 1997; Rushton et al. 1997). Studies indicate that controlled doses of tea tree oil may be used as an effective topical treatment for dermatologic Candida infection and paronychia. Shark liver oil has demonstrated an antifungal effect in laboratory studies. Shark liver oil capsules containing 200 mg of alkyl glycerol can be taken in doses of 5 capsules a day for up to 30 days. After 30 days, reduce the dose to 2 capsules a day or stop altogether. Shark liver oil promotes the healthy production of blood cells, particularly platelets . Note: If you have been diagnosed with thrombocytosis (too many platelets), then do not take shark liver oil supplements.
The other drug, Diflucan, is the most potent FDA-approved antifungal drug available. One month's treatment with Diflucan can temporarily eradicate a systemic Candida infection (Dmitrieva et al. 1993) so that anti-Candida nutritional supplements like Yeast Fighters, Life Flora (bifido bacteria), and NutraFlora (fructo-oligosaccharides) can prevent a new Candida infection from occurring. Along with an antifungal cream, hydrocortisone for skin infection may be used to relieve pain and itching. Keeping the skin dry will help to clear up the infection and prevent its return.
Investigate carefully
for underlying health problems. Contact the National Women's Health Network, (202) 628-7814. A staffer will answer questions on vaginitis and yeast infections. An information packet costs $6 for members and $8 for nonmembers. Also refer to Crook (1986, 1999).
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These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease
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