Candida infections are a very common disorder that affect the gastrointestinal tract. The problem arises when there is an overgrowth of the yeast candida, which causes the condition of chronic candidiasis, or yeast syndrome. Infections can occur after taking antibiotics that destroy the friendly bacteria in the gut that keeps candida in check. Pregnancy and birth control pills also inhibit the body's ability to keep candida under control.

Other causes of candida include eating disorders; laxative abuse; fasting; starvation; and excessive consumption of artificial sweeteners, MSG, sugary foods, refined foods, canned foods, smoked foods, preserved foods, or fried foods.

Foods That Aggravate Candida Infections

Many foods can also exacerbate candida symptoms. Steer clear of anything made with yeast as well as the following foods:

• Pickled, smoked, or processed meat

• Pickled fish, such as herring

• Bread, pasta, and other gluten products

• Vinegars and salad dressings

• Mayonnaise

• Chutney

• Cream of wheat

• Cheese

• Melons and grapes

• Bruised or moldy produce

• Honey and other natural sweeteners

• Mushrooms

• Refined sugars

• Peanuts and peanut butter

If you have an overgrowth problem, limit your consumption of non-sugary fruit, such as apples and grapefruit, to two pieces a day. Avoid fruit juice, which is loaded with sugar. Instead, enjoy nutrient-rich vegetable juice, which inhibits the growth of candida.

• Pistachios

• Tea and coffee, except herbal tea

• Fruit juice

An excess of candida can result in myriad problems. The symptoms of chronic candidiasis may be vague and may seem unrelated, but if you suspect you have this condition, you may want to consult your doctor.

SYMPTOMS ASSOCIATED WITH CANDIDA INFECTIONS

• Headaches

• Bladder infections

• Mood swings

• Vaginitis

• Fungal infections (e.g. athletes foot)

• Bad breath

• Extensive food allergies

• Anal itching

• Feeling sick after eating yeasty or sugary foods

• Nasal itching or congestion

• Cravings for sugary foods

• Abdominal distension or bloating

• Gas

• Diarrhea

• Constipation

• Belching

• Indigestion

• Heartburn

• Depression

• Fatigue

• Poor memory

• Lack of sexual desire

• Skin rashes

• Cold hands and feet

• Irritability

• Dizziness

• Menstrual cramps

• Muscle aches

Veggies that Fight Candida Infections

Not only do vegetables starve the candida of its sugar and mold diet, they also absorb fungal poisons and carry them out of your body. Vegetables that may actually inhibit the growth of candida include raw garlic, onions, cabbage, broccoli, turnip, kale, cucumber, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, peppers, celery, radish, eggplant, asparagus, spinach, zucchini, okra, tomatoes, and avocados. Enjoy them in fresh juice to help eliminate symptoms.

Protein to the Rescue

As part of your plan to starve the candida yeast, eat plenty of high-protein meals like organic fresh chicken, beef, fresh fish, and eggs, which are free of sugar and mold and will fill you up while limiting the growth of candida.

If you need to lose weight, low-carb diets can also help reduce or eliminate candida by limiting the amount of sugar you consume. In addition, nuts and seeds can help starve out candida and restrict its growth. Avoid peanuts and pistachios, as they tend to have higher mold content than other nuts.

Live yogurt cultures, probiotics, are a class of supplement that helps your gut repopulate the good bacteria it relies on to keep candida under control. The live bacteria in the yogurt will crowd out the candida yeast and restore balance to your system.