Candidiasis, Candidiasis and
Alcohol, Sugar Cravings
Candidiasis
Conquering Candidiasis Naturally
Stephen C. Byrnes, N.D.,
R.N.C.P.
http://www.sumeria.net/health/cadida.html
The Nightmare of Candida Overgrowth
Candida albicans and candida tropicalis
are the names given to common yeasts that live within our intestines and
certain mucous membranes, the throat, for example. Everyone has candida
within them: we are born with it.
Candida usually lives at peace with our
other intestinal fauna, the acidophilus and bifido bacteria, and it is
these bacterial residents that keep candida under control, preventing a
"population burst." Candida's function in the body is mainly to gobble up
any putrefied food matter in our digestive system (mostly caused by
improper digestion due to low stomach acid) before any potentially harmful
bacteria can have a feast, multiply, and become threatening to our health.
After we die, candida acts to decompose the body, feeding off our corpse,
much like a fungal mold on a dead tree.
Candida is usually kept in check by the
gastrointestinal "good" bacteria and the immune system, but trouble can
arise when certain conditions are present. It is in the presence of these
conditions that candida can begin growing out of control in the
intestines, branching out and colonizing the gut. In this process, candida
can eat away at the intestinal walls, spread into the bloodstream, and
infiltrate other tissues. The normally benign yeast has literally
transformed itself into an aggressive, destructive, fungal pathogen that
can cause a variety of seemingly unrelated health problems. This
condition/disease is known as systemic candidiasis.
Symptoms and Causes
Systemic candidiasis, as a separate
disease, was not recognized or defined until the 1980's, mostly because
its symptoms were so varied and duplicated those of other illnesses,
leading doctors to conclude that the patient was suffering from, for
example, sinusitis instead of yeast infiltration of the nasal passages.
Additionally, since one of the main causes of systemic candidiasis are
doctor prescribed antibiotics, which kill the intestinal bacteria that
control candida, the medical profession was probably not too eager to
admit the existence of this disease. Diagnoses of candidiasis were
limited to its visible manifestations, e.g., a vaginal or oral yeast
infection. Treatment was directed towards eradicating these conditions
alone without addressing the reality of a more serious, but hidden,
infection.
The symptoms of candidiasis, and their
severity, vary from person to person but the main ones are: chronic
fatigue, especially after eating, depression, craving for breads and
sugars (yeast eats sugar), extreme mood swings, feelings of rage,
especially after eating sugary foods, feeling "drunk" after eating a meal
high in carbohydrates (candida's waste is alcohol), hypoglycemia,
excessive mucous of the throat, nose, and lungs, chronic fungal infections
of the skin (jock itch, athlete's foot) or vaginal/oral thrush, diarrhea,
anal itching, short-term memory loss, feeling "spacy," and bloating or
gassiness after eating.
In addition to these, lymphatic swelling,
difficult PMS, night sweats, chest and joint pain, memory loss,
incoordination, blurred vision, intense, random headaches, intermittent
vertigo, insomnia, sneezing fits, and increased food allergies are also
fairly common. A person tends to get extremely sensitive to damp, mildewy
environments and, sometimes, to extreme humidity as well as perfumes,
colognes, and smoke. Since candida can infiltrate the urinary tract, acute
kidney infections, cystitis, and prostatitis are possible.
While these symptoms can indicate other
illnesses, if certain factors are present in one's personal history the
symptoms are likely to indicate candida overgrowth. These factors are:
-
Prolonged, or repeated, use of antibiotics,
corticosteroid drugs, and/or birth control pills, at any time in the past
-
A diet high in processed sugars which
encourages candida growth, and
-
Preexisting immunosuppression caused by
drug or alcohol abuse, multiple blood transfusions, debilitating illness,
organ transplants, or chemotherapy. All three are NOT required to bring on
a case of candidiasis: excessive "sugar binging" can cause it just as
surely as antibiotics can. Pregnancy also predisposes women to the
condition since pregnancy alters the body's delicate hormonal and pH
balance: candida thrives in an alkaline environment.
Contributing factors are
A 20th Century Disease
Candidiasis is truly a modern disease,
brought on by medical "innovations" like antibiotics and the Pill and a
more "civilized" diet of refined, sugary foods and candy. In some
naturopathic circles, the illness is derisively known as "Candy
Disease."
In all seriousness, however, candidiasis is
a serious condition for two main reasons:
It often goes undiagnosed, allowing the
yeast to spread unhampered, and
-
The numerous symptoms it produces severely
tax the immune system, forcing it to deal with, not only the yeast
infection, but the other conditions the yeast causes. A truly vicious
cycle can ensue: a person is weakened by a candida caused problem, say
cystitis, and goes to a doctor who then prescribes antibiotics for it. The
drugs kill off more of the intestinal bacteria which control candida,
making the candida overgrowth worse, leading to more infections and more
antibiotics, etc. At its most destructive, candida can exhaust the adrenal
glands, leading to Addison's disease, can interfere with digestion so much
that virtually no nutrients are absorbed from food, and can cause life
threatening infestations of the vital organs and the brain.
Treatments & Recovery
Natural therapies are the most potent and
effective weapons against this disease and recovery time lasts about 6 to
12 months (or longer depending on the length of time one has had the
condition and the severity of symptoms). This might seem long, but once
candida has colonized the body, it takes quite an effort to drive it out.
Let's now take a look at the natural therapies most effective against this
adaptable and extremely tenacious invader.
Digestion
The key to conquering candida is in
cleaning up the digestive system, the ultimate source of the problem. In
general, one must avoid constipation at all costs so high water (4-5
glasses a day) and adequate fiber intake is recommended. Drinking lots
of water will also help flush the dead yeast cells out of your system as
you progress with your treatment. If diarrhea is a problem, psyllium or
yellow dock herb, both available in capsule form, will tighten the
colon. These two herbs are also effective for constipation — they are
bowel regulators. Yellow dock is also known as a blood builder,
effective for anemia and low white blood cell counts. If you decide to
take yellow dock, be sure to take it separately from any herb containing
tannic acid to avoid stomach upset.
Supplementation with acidophilus and bifido
bacteria is essential to recolonize the intestines. While these bacteria
will not kill candida, they inhibit candida's growth and, generally, clean
up the bowels, making it more difficult for candida to thrive. Look for a
high potency supplement, either freeze dried or refrigerated, made without
cow's milk. You will need to supplement heavily with these "probiotics"
throughout your recovery and well after all your symptoms have gone.
Chlorophyll-rich foods, like leafy green vegetables and alfalfa, also
promote acidophilus growth and discourage yeast reproduction.
Proper food digestion is an absolute MUST
as nothing makes candida happier than putrefied, poorly digested food.
Unless you have an ulcer, consider taking a digestive enzyme supplement
with hydrochloric acid (HCL) immediately before or after each meal. If you
have an ulcer, look for digestive enzyme supplements without HCL. Plant
enzyme supplements are excellent. Both pancreatin and plant enzymes can be
taken between meals to hinder yeast growth. Using digestive enzymes will
help your condition dramatically and also take some stress off your
pancreas which might be weary from dealing with possible candida-caused
hypoglycemia. (If you notice any stomach irritation when using HCL
supplements, cut back on the dose at once to prevent possible ulcer
formation.)
If enzyme supplements are not available, a
cup of German chamomile tea just before or after eating will stimulate HCL
production by the stomach. Chamomile will also ease any gassiness and/or
bloating and contains potent anti-candida compounds. If you have a history
of ragweed allergy do not use chamomile; fennel or cardamon are fine
substitutes. Another herb to consider for digestion is wormwood. Wormwood,
while extremely bitter, is probably the best digestive herb around,
stimulating HCL and bile production. SIde benefits of wormwood are ridding
you of any parasites, gas, nervousness, and weak stomach. Wormwood extract
or tincture can be found at any health food store; take the recommended
dose just before eating in a little water. CAUTION: Wormwood should not be
used by pregnant women.
Since the liver can get overburdened with
candida's toxins because it filters the blood, cleansing this organ is
essential for your recovery. Daily supplementation with hepatic herbs
like, dandelion root, golden seal, wormwood, barberry, Oregon grape root,
or bayberry, is highly recommended. Again, the need for increased water
intake is emphasized here to facilitate internal cleansing. CAUTION: Avoid
goldenseal and barberry if you are pregnant.
Dietary Do's and Dont's
Since candida loves sugar, it must be
avoided in all its forms (dextrose, sucrose, glucose, maltose, lactose,
fructose). Say goodbye to all fruits, except the low sugar ones like
strawberries, cherries, and papayas which can be eaten in strict
moderation. Read the label of every food product you buy to be sure
there is no added sugar (a near impossible task these days!).
Diet is your main weapon against candida,
but also the most frustrating as you will have to give up a number of
foods. Bid farewell to: wheat, rye, milk, cheese, alcoholic or caffeinated
beverages, potatoes, honey, mushrooms, and vinegar: all these foods
promote yeast growth or can aggravate already present yeast colonies. Keep
your food well covered in the refrigerator to prevent mold formation. When
eating out, be sure to ask how a dish is prepared and tell the server to
hold any undesirable ingredients like soy sauce or mayonnaise.
In general, a low carbohydrate diet is
preferred. Carbohydrates, even complex ones, eventually break down to
glucose (sugar) in the digestive tract, and sugar feeds candida. Its also
adviseable to avoid the starchier vegetables like sweet potatoes,
parsnips, and winter squashes. Different people, however, have different
sensitivities. I've worked with patients who can handle wheat, despite a
candida problem. You and your body are your best guide as to which foods
to avoid. At rock bottom, however, all sugars MUST be avoided.
Due to the restrictions, you may be
wondering at times, "What the hell am I supposed to eat?!" Books will be
listed at the end of the article to help with food selections and recipes.
On the positive side, assuming you have no
allergic reactions, you can enjoy all of the following: fish, poultry,
meat, all vegetables, brown rice*, eggs, seeds, all nuts except cashews
and peanuts, herb teas, beans* and lentils*, goat milk*, corn*, amaranth*,
kamut*, quinoa*, buckwheat*, oats*, and spelt*. Check with a local health
food store for sugar free breads made of kamut, millet, or spelt and
consider eating corn tortillas to replace wheat bread. (*: moderate
amounts only.) To ease their digestion, all nuts, seeds, and whole grains
should be soaked for at least seven hours before cooking or drying.
Soaking initiates the sprouting process and breaks up the enzyme
inhibitors and phytates found in these foods.
Contrary to popular belief, foods
containing yeast may be eaten if no allergic reactions are present.
Brewer's yeast, for example, is a very nutritious and immune enhancing
food and can be eaten for nutritional support during one's recovery.
As your symptoms disappear, you can
cautiously add back the forbidden foods, one at a time and slowly. Do not
eat any refined sugars for at least 6 months after your recovery. Having
candidiasis once predisposes one to getting it again so be very careful
after you are well. Indulging in too many foods too quickly can, as I can
painfully attest to, cause a relapse.
Herbs & Supplements
The following herbs should assist in
recovery: Garlic- a powerful antifungal and immune stimulant. Garlic
will also help with constipation, gas, excess mucous, and blood
cleansing; it is antiparasitic and hypotensive also. Some people are
sensitive to garlic so increase your dosage slowly to discern any
unpleasant side effects. If there are none, include it liberally in your
diet, everyday. If you prefer to take garlic tablets, look for ones that
are enteric coated to insure that the garlic is released deep inside the
intestines where candida thrives.
Golden Seal, Barberry, Oregon Grape Root-
the berberine in these herbs is lethal to candida. Berberine is also a
powerful immune stimulant. Don't overuse golden seal as too much will
irritate the liver: take for 2 weeks on, one week off. All of these herbs
can also be used to assist digestion. Golden seal can be topically applied
to ringworm, and made into a tea for athlete's foot. These three herbs are
excellent for urinary tract problems, being diuretic, antibacterial, and
antifungal. Like wormwood, golden seal and barberry should not be used by
pregnant women.
Licorice root- Though not antifungal,
licorice will soothe the inflamed intestines so common with candida, thus
helping to prevent malabsorption of nutrients and food allergies. Licorice
also tones the adrenal glands and helps regulate blood glucose,
controlling sugar cravings. This herb is also excellent for excessive
mucous, cough, and constipation.
Astragalus- This popular Chinese herb is
excellent for stimulating the immune system, essential for recovering from
candida or any other infective condition. Aloe Vera- a must if sufferring
from fungal skin infections. The fresh gel is effective against ringworm,
jock itch, and athlete's foot and will also help heal cracked, damaged
skin. Use bottled gel if the fresh herb is not available.
Other useful herbs are clove, ginseng (all
varieties), ginger, pau d'arco, and cinnamon. For proper doses, check the
labels, but higher doses may be taken without fear of toxicity except as
noted above.
Tea tree oil, from Australia and New
Zealand, is very deadly to candida and may be used topically for athlete's
foot, jock itch, and ringworm. It can also be used as a gargle or douche
when mixed with water and can be safely taken internally (3-4 drops, 3
times a day, do not exceed this dose). Be absolutely certain the brand you
buy does NOT say "For external use only" on its label.
Caprylic acid, a short chain fatty acid, is
extremely effective against candida and is, fortunately, available over
the counter at health food stores. Look for a slow release formula of
about 300-500 mg. and arrange for a dose of 500 to 1000 mg. with each
meal.
Colloidal silver, and the newer olive leaf
extract, are excellent antifungal agents and lethal to candida. Though
expensive, my clients have had excellent results with these products. Look
for a silver supplement of at least 40 ppm with a micron size of no more
than .001. Follow the instructions on the labels for the correct doasages.
Oxygen is an antifungal compound. Taking
stabilized oxygen products, like flavored peroxide combinations found in
health food stores, can also be employed in one's recovery.
The latest in candida treatment are enteric
coated essential oils. Oregano, peppermint, and rosemary oils are all
extremely powerful against candida and some supplement companies already
have formulas using these oils on the market. Oregano oil is estimated at
being 100 times more powerful than caprylic acid. Be prepared for some
explosive diarrhea when using this product. As the yeast cells die, the
body makes every effort to expel them.
Vitamin/mineral supplementation is a good
idea to not only insure that adequate nutrients are ingested, but also to
help the immune system fight the infection. The following are suggested
daily guidelines. For individual needs, its best to see a health
practitioner who is familiar with approaching candidiasis: Vitamin A (as
retinol and beta carotene)- 75,000 iu; vitamin C- 3 to 5 gms.; selenium-
200 mcg.; zinc- 50 mg.; vitamin E- 400 iu; iron- 10 mg.; essential fatty
acids- 4 gms; high potency multi vitamin/mineral- 1 a day.
One particularly useful nutrient is the
free-form amino acid glutamine. Glutamine is very pivotal in maintaining
proper muscle mass, brain function, intestinal integrity, and stable blood
sugar levels. It is often prescribed to recovering alcoholics by natural
therapists to control alcohol cravings. 1-3 grams before each meal is
suggested. Glutamine is excellent for helping to heal leaky gut
syndrome, a very common symptom of intestinal candidiasis. Also, since
weight loss is usual with severe candida infestations, this amino acid
helps protect against muscle loss. Glutamine is also very stimulating to
the immune system. Do everything you can, then, to acquire it and be
diligent about taking it.
There are homeopathic preparations of
Candida albicans on the market. From personal and professional experience,
you have to be very careful with these products as they can cause a severe Herxheimer Reaction, or temporary worsening of your symptoms due to
the rapid die off of yeast cells in the body. The best way to use
homeopathics is to start with a weaker preparation of about 12X potency,
and gradually work your way up to more powerful doses — 30C and above. A
slow build up avoids the unpleasant hassle of aggravated die off.
You will sometimes feel like a walking
medicine chest from all of the supplements, herbs, probiotics, and
antifungal products you'll be taking. Inconvenience aside, it is necessary
as candida is a very tenacious organism. You must be persistent and
unwavering in your efforts to recover or you will get nowhere; the total
approach is necessary.
Candidiasis and Alcohol in the Body
Information listed below taken from http://www.liferesearchuniversal.com/candidiasis2.html. Not sure how
credible this information is regarding sugar turning into alcohol in the
body, but much of the other information is in agreement to what other
resources have to say about Candidiasis.
Candidiasis
According to Dr Susser, sugar in the diet can greatly contribute to
candida overgrowth. When sugar is eaten, intestinal fermentation creates
a toxin called Acetaldehyde which affects all of the body's
physiological functions, including digestion and hormonal processes.
Yeast thrives on sugar in order to grow, therefore, a high-sugar diet is
one of the predisposing factors for candidiasis.
Candidiasis and Alcohol
Candidiasis patients should also stay away from all alcohol since it
is composed of fermented and refined sugar. It is also more toxic than
sugar and feeds yeast. According to Dr Susser, alcohol suppresses the
immune system, disturbs the whole adrenal axis, and you can say
empirically that it makes anyone with candida worse.
Some candidiasis sufferers will feel, and appear to be, intoxicated.
An unusual symptom of certain people with severe candidiasis is the
presence of alcohol in the blood stream even when none has been
consumed. First discovered in Japan, and called "drunk disease," this
condition creates strains of candida albicans which turn acetaldehyde
(which is the chemical created by sugar and yeast fermentation) into
ethanol. This is a process well understood by distillers of homemade
brew. These candidiasis patients whose yeast turns sugar into alcohol
are chronically drunk. They have developed what is only half-jokingly
called "auto-brewery syndrome".
A medical test has been developed in which, after an overnight fast,
the individual is given 100 grams of pure sugar. Blood samples taken
both before the sugar loading, and an hour after, are measured for
alcohol. An increase of alcohol indicates yeast "auto-brewery"
intoxication. Another connection between alcohol and candidiasis has
been found in a study of 213 alcoholics at a recovery center in
Minneapolis. Test and questionnaire results indicated that candidiasis is
a common complication of alcoholism due to the combination of high sugar
content in alcohol and the inability of alcoholics to assimilate
nutrients. Additionally, female alcoholics with candidiasis were
significantly sicker than non alcoholic women with candidiasis.
Many of the symptoms exhibited in alcoholism such as insomnia,
depression, loss of libido, headaches, sinusitis/post-nasal drip,
digestion and intestinal complaints, overlap with those in candida
overgrowth. Obviously, drinking alcohol increases levels of sugar in the
system.
How to Overcome Candidiasis
Diet:
In order to overcome candidiasis, sugar must be avoided in all it's
various forms. These include : sucrose, dextrose, fructose, fruit
juices, honey, maple syrup, molasses, milk products (which contains
lactose), most fruit (except berries), and potatoes (whose starch
converts into sugar). Dr Black says, " In treating candida, my basic
dietary taboos are sweets, alcohol, and refined carbohydrates." Many
candidiasis sufferers also have allergies and sensitivity to various
foods. Although candida albicans yeast is not synonymous to yeast in
foods, such as bread, a cross-reaction between the food yeast and
candida frequently occurs. As a result, foods containing or promoting
yeast, such as baked goods, alcohol, and vinegar, should be avoided
until possible sensitivities are clearly diagnosed.
Nutritional Supplements:
According to Dr Chaitow, a general nutritional support program is
frequently needed to help build up immune function and digestive
efficiency, which may have become severely depleted or compromised after
months or years of chronic candidiasis. Specific nutritional
supplementation can be helpful in rebuilding weakened immune function.
Recommended supplements include individual B Vitamins which increase
antibody response and are used in nearly every body activity, Vitamin C
which stimulates adrenaline and is essential to immune processes, Vitamin
E the lack of which depresses immune response, Vitamin A which builds
resistance to infection and increases immune response, and beta-carotene a
Vitamin A precursor which increases T-cells.
Antioxidant immune boosters, such as selenium, calcium, and zinc, are
also very useful in combating candidiasis. Other adrenal stimulants are
chromium, magnesium, and glandular adrenal (an extract). Essential fatty
acids such as evening primrose oil may be considered as well. As routine
supplementation, Dr Braly offers the following regiment : Vitamin C - 8-10
grams daily, Vitamin E - one 400 IU daily, Evening Primrose oil - 6-8
capsules daily, Max EPA - 6 capsules daily, Pantothenic Acid - 250 mg
daily, Taurine - 500-1000 mg daily, Zinc Shelate - 25-50 mg daily,
Goldenseal Root extract with no less than 5% hydrastine - 250 mg twice
daily, lacto-bacillus acidophilus - 1 dried teaspoon three times daily, if
allergic to milk use non-lactose acidophilus. Dr Braly also recommends
supplementation of hydrochloric acid "HCI". He notes that aging, alcohol
abuse, food allergies, and nutrient deficiencies create a lack of HCI in
the stomach which prevents food from digesting and permits candida
overgrowth. Such supplementation, he says, helps restore the proper
balance of intestinal flora. Dr Braly recommends one capsule of HCI and
pepsin at the start of meals, increasing cautiously to 2 to 4 capsules
with each meal if needed.
________________________________
"Immaculate Intoxication"
by Lawrence Taylor
Information listed below taken from http://www.duiblog.com/discuss/msgReader$40. Not sure how credible
this information is since it is written by a DUI attorney citing medical
reports, but it repeats some of the info in the previous article.
Can alcohol be created by the human body itself --
without any drinking? Apparently so.
In an interesting scientific article, two physicians at
Union Memorial Hospital in Baltimore reported that they detected the odor
of beer in three of their patients. This was in an isolated hospital
setting; there was no access to alcoholic beverages. The doctors had urine
samples taken and analyzed by gas chromatography. Result? All three showed
the presence of alcohol in their systems. Two of these were then tested
for actual blood-alcohol concentration (BAC). One showed a BAC of .043%.
The other was .121% -- or 1 1/2 times the legal limit for DUI!
"The presence of alcohol in human specimens containing
glucose and yeast should come as no surprise," the two physicians wrote.
"Several have made this observation. Under normal circumstances trace
amounts of alcohol may be found in the blood; the alcohol is then
channeled into an energy pathway by hepatic alcohol dehydrogenase...
"The Japanese report the "auto brewery syndrome" in
which they have seen middle aged patients with bowel abnormalities, most
often after surgery, who have yeast overgrowth, usually candida, in the
G.I. tract and who ferment ingested carbohydrates, producing enough
alcohol to result in drunkeness." Mullholland and Townsend, "Bladder Beer
- A New Clinical Observation", 95 Transactions of the American Clinical
Climatological Association 34 (1983).
In other words, the body is manufacturing alcohol by
itself -- in some cases, enough to become legally intoxicated.
This has been confirmed by other studies. Swedish
researchers, for example, have found that:
"Increasing evidence has emerged to show that endogenous
ethanol does exist, the the concentrations seen have large
inter-individual variations. Our results show a markedly skewed
distribution of values...The reason for the wide inter-individuaal
variation in healthy abstaining individuals is hard to explain." Jones et
al., "Determination of Endogenous Ethanol in Blood and Breath By Gas
Chromatography, 18 Pharmacology, Biochemistry and Behavior 267 (1983).
__________________________________
Gut Fermentation (or the
"Auto-brewery") Syndrome: A New Clinical Test with Initial Observations
and Discussion of Clinical and Biochemical Implications
Hunnisett A, Howard J, Davies S
J. Nutr. Med. 1990;1:33-38
Taken from http://www.biolab.co.uk/abs7.html. One more article on correlation
between sugar and alcohol production in the body.
Summary
This study demonstrates that alcohol production from oral carbohydrate
ingestion is not a rarity but is remarkably common (61%) amongst patients
who are chronically unwell. It also presents data to support the use of a
new simple clinical test to diagnose gut fermentation that may be due to
Candida albicans or other yeasts or bacteria, and thus identify patients
who may benefit from a course of anti-yeast or anti-bacterial therapy.
(This test does not differentiate between yeast and bacterial
fermentation, neither does it exclude large bowel overgrowth of yeasts or
"abnormal" bacteria). It is an easy test to perform both technically and
clinically, requiring a minimum of laboratory hardware, and it presents to
the patient only the discomfort of having two venepunctures (or one for
children). It is a test well within the capability of any clinical
laboratory and should prove useful in the identification of a cause of a
diffuse clinical condition.
Further studies should be carried out, including
microbiological culture of gastric and duodenal aspirates in EtOH
producers, clinical response to the appropriate anti-yeast or
anti-bacterial intervention, and on the stress on dietary micronutrient
supply that EtOH production causes.
__________________________________
Crave Sweets? On the Weight & Mood
Roller Coaster? Perhaps It's More Than You Think!
By Christina Winsey-Rudd
http://www.greatoffers4u.com/articles/3030
The sugar industry and the food manufacturers are capitalizing BIG TIME
on the addictive nature of carbohydrates (sweets, breads, deserts) in the
human body. Blood sugar-handling problems promote arteriosclerosis (plaque
in the arteries), adult-onset diabetes, mood swings, weight problems,
chronic fatigue, PMS and much more. Additionally, there is evidence that
sugar addiction has a component of alcoholism!
Consider that there actually is speculation about a Syndrome called
“Gut Fermentation” or “Auto-Brewery Syndrome.” There is a great deal of
evidence that due to a combination of 1. An overgrown yeast population in
the GI tract (gastrointestinal system), 2. Compromised stomach acid levels
(hypochlorhydria), and consumption of refined carbohydrates, detectable
amounts of alcohol are produced. In fact, it is estimated that this
syndrome plagues 61% of chronically unwell patients.
Microscopic Yeast, “Candida Albicans” Controls Your Cravings. Just what
is candida albicans? Neither a vegetable nor an animal, yeasts live in our
intestines, on our skin, as well as on the surfaces of all living
creatures (and foods). However, yeasts usually live in small enough
numbers that the existence of large populations of “good flora” (the kind
of bacteria that actually assist human health) keeps it under control.
Candida yeast is in the fungal family, and loves warm, moist places on,
or inside living things. People plagued with candida crave sweets –
carbohydrates – and milk products (cheese, milk, ice cream, etc.) because
candida “loves” these foods too. Americans consider them daily fare.
How Can I Diagnose Myself? Though there are tests that can be many
practitioners diagnose from the symptoms and health history alone. Ask
yourself these questions and then take the symptom survey in #6 below:
Taken many antibiotic drugs from childhood through the present?
- Are you now, or have you had periods of high to extreme stress in
your life?
- Taken birth control pills for any period of time?
- Heavily consume white breads, pastas, cookies, cakes, ice cream,
cheeses, etc?
- Have a child who has been labeled ADD/ADHD, “slow learner” or
“underachiever”? Our children are huge victims of the yeast syndrome!
- Circle your symptoms:
- Headaches,
- Depression,
- Fatigue,
- Mood swings,
- Muscle/joint pains (unexplained),
- Loss of strong libido/sexual function,
- Chemical sensitivities,
- Asthma & respiratory problems,
- Food sensitivities,
- Memory loss,
- Constant colds,
- Sleep Problems,
- Volvodynia, endometriosis, infertility,
- Attention Deficits,
- Ear problems,
- Skin rashes,
- Hyperactivity,
- Poor School Performance,
- Recurrent vaginal yeast infections,
- Pain on intercourse,
- Interstitial cystitis
How Does This Yeast Syndrome Occur? In a person with a strong immune
system, yeasts co-exist with the millions of other microbes (“micro
flora”) in the body. The imbalance begins with the use of broad-spectrum
antibiotics. These drugs not only kill infectious microbes, but also kill
the “good flora” that normally live in our bodies; thus decreasing the
body’s built-in yeast population control. The opportunistic yeast then
have a chance to multiply.
Worse yet, yeasts excrete toxins into their environment (the host body)
that weaken the immune system further. This increases susceptibility to
re-infection and the need for more antibiotics; leading to more killing of
the “good flora” and hence the continued overgrowth of yeasts – a vicious
cycle!
Yeasts can and do spread to be a system-wide problem. The result is
myriad symptoms that can arise from its pervasiveness.
What YOU Can Do NOW: Unfortunately, simply eating yogurt to ingest the
“good flora” (acidophilus and bifidus) when you take antibiotics isn’t
enough. Dietary changes, along with herbs and supplements are vital. In
severe cases, anti-fungal prescriptions are recommended. There are several
must-read books on the subject: The Yeast Connection by Dr. Crock, M.D.,
The Body Knows, by Caroline Sutherland, and regarding the negatives of
sugar, Sugar Blues, by William Dufty.
Candida Yeast infections are no joke, and progressively make the
sufferer’s life more and more difficult. If you ignore it, it will NOT go
away. Many people have been so debilitated by candida problems that they
almost felt they needed to go live in a plastic bubble to stay healthy. If
you do have it, getting free of systemic yeast infection can revolutionize
your health, and give you the youthful vitality and wellness you never
thought you’d see again.
Sugar Cravings
Stop Those Sugar Cravings
NEW YORK, March 20, 2004
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2004/03/19/earlyshow/saturday/main607396.shtml
(CBS) The average American
consumes almost 160 pounds of refined sugar each year -- a 25 percent
increase over the past three decades.
It's a statistic that worries nutritionists. But cutting back on sugar
consumption can be very difficult. The Saturday Early Show's Dr.
Mallika Marshall provided some tips on how to fight sugar cravings.
Research in animals suggests that sugar may have some addictive
properties. In fact, a recent study from Princeton University found rats
given too much sugar actually suffered from withdrawal when the sugar was
taken away. And they continued to crave sugar for weeks afterwards. But so
far, there have been no concrete studies done in humans to prove that it's
really addictive like alcohol and drugs.
Sugary foods often contain a lot of fat -- usually saturated fats or trans
fats, which can increase the risk for heart disease and diabetes. Eating a
lot of sugar can also cause weight gain, which has its own health risks.
And then, of course, sugar can cause tooth decay.
Marshall suggested the following ways to beat sugar cravings:
Don't Skip Meals
When you skip a meal, your energy level drops. As a result, you body
begins to crave high-sugar foods to give you a quick energy boost. If you
eat a number of small meals in a day, you'll have fewer cravings.
Eat Natural Sugars
If you find that you're craving a bowl of ice cream or a piece of candy,
grab a piece of fruit instead. Fruit will not only satisfy your sugar
craving, but it also contains fiber. The fiber will slow down the
absorption of sugar in your body and help keep your blood sugar from
rising too quickly, which can actually lead to even more sugar cravings.
Seek Out Substitutes
There are a number of sugar substitutes on the market, such as aspartame,
which is found in Equal, and saccharin, which is found in Sweet and Low. A
lot of foods such as ice cream and frozen yogurt are sweetened with these
products. And, these artificial sweeteners are generally safe. But, people
with a rare condition called phenylketonuria should not eat aspartame.
Brush And Gargle
As a tip to help stop craving for dessert after a meal, Marshall
recommends brushing or gargling with an antiseptic mouthwash right after
eating. Sugary foods don't taste good right after you've brushed your
teeth or gargled.
Don't Buy Sugary Foods
Many people crave sugary foods late at night when the body's ability to
resist is lower. So, Marshall says, avoid keeping foods such as ice cream
and cookies in your house. If the food isn't there to begin with, you
can't eat it.
Take A Walk
Many people eat dessert after a meal. But instead, Marshall says try
taking a walk. Eating sugar can raise your serotonin levels, which can
elevate your mood. Taking a short walk can have the same positive effect.
__________________________________
Sugar consumption itself has become a disease.
Over-consumption can lead to hypoglycemia, diabetes, heart disease, and
chronic tiredness. Balancing the blood sugar is an important part of
regaining energy and health. Excess sugar consumption is one of the
major causes for fatigue. Not only is sugar a major culprit, the
consumption of refined carbohydrates that quickly turn to sugar in our
blood is equally damaging.
Many people actually use sugar as medicine. Sugar tends
to change the way the blood-brain barrier selects appropriate amino-acid
building blocks of brain chemicals. Refined carbohydrate consumption
increases the level of the amino acid tryptophan, which is the building
block of the brain chemical serotonin. Serotonin is a proven tranquilizer.
Sugar creates a cycle of craving and bingeing. It is highly addictive.
Blood sugar disorders can cause fatigue and are closely
tied to trace mineral status in the body. The average can of soda pop
contains eight to nine teaspoons of sugar. If a person drinks a can
of pop, the blood is hit with a hefty dose of sugar that is eight to nine
times more than that of normal. In response, the body must mobilize large
amounts of adrenalin and insulin to clear the sugar from the bloodstream.
Repeated day after day, this scenario can lead to significant health
problems as well as blood sugar disorders.
Unbelievable as it seems, according to the USDA, in 1989
the average American consumed the following:
134 pounds of refined sugar excluding honey
- 365 servings of soda pop (638 cans per year for
people aged 12-29)
- 200 sticks of gum
- 22 pounds of candy
- 63 dozen doughnuts
- 60 pounds of cakes and cookies
- 23 gallons of ice cream
Poor diet or excess dietary sugar causing abnormally low
levels of glucose in the blood affect the brain, nerves, digestive system,
and muscles. If the body is not receiving proper nutrition the very
fundamental mechanisms of the body begin to crumble.
Sub-optimal food quality begins with the agricultural
practices that have been depleting our soil of it's minerals for years. If
minerals and nutrients are not present in the soil then they are also not
present in our food supply. It used to be that we grew our own foods,
picked them from the garden, and ate them the very same day. Now we buy
foods that have been on a shelf for who knows how long; the vitamins
minerals, and enzymes depleting by the minute. This of course, along with
most people's food choices and excess sugar and refined carbohydrate
consumption, contributes to depleted immune systems, weak organs and
malnutrition.
Nutritional Therapy to Restore Energy
Begin by eating foods that are low on the glycemic
index.
Avoid flour and bread, which cause blood sugar to peak
faster, sugar and all other refined carbohydrates, including alcohol, and
caffeine. Reduce dairy foods, fried and fatty foods, fast foods, pastries,
prepared meats, and saturated fats. Eliminate preserved foods and red
meats unless they are range free from your health food store. Keep fruit
at a minimum.
Glycemic Index of Common Foods (Smaller is Better).
Include in the diet as much fiber as possible from fresh
vegetables and small amounts of whole grains. Grain consumption should be
minimal. Small amounts of millet, quinoa, amaranth, or wild rice no bigger
than the palm of your hand at mealtime is adequate. Meals should be small
and frequent in order to keep blood sugar at a normal level. Protein
should be included with each meal.
Whenever possible buy organically grown produce. Salad
and lightly steamed vegetables should be included in at least two of your
meals a day. Eating close to the zone diet would be a good building diet
to get one on track. It is especially good for people with blood sugar
disorders.
Green superfoods such as spirulina, barley grass juice,
and wheat grass juice are good for between meal snacks as they help to
keep the blood sugar level. Superfoods Described Snacks between meals can include
nuts and seeds. Parsley, wheatgrass, carrot (small amounts) and celery
juices, along with green vegetables build the blood.
Vitamin/Mineral Therapy
- Chromium is good to take because it enhances the
action of insulin.
- B-Complex vitamin supplement. With extra B1, B3, B5,
B6, B12 and pantothenic acid. Has a stabilizing effect on the nerves and
blood sugar.
- Vitamin C for stress.
- Jerusalem Artichoke flour for blood sugar
stabilization.
- Marine Minerals or multi-minerals containing calcium,
magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, manganese, iodine, chromium and zinc.
- Bee pollen and royal jelly. Stimulates adrenal
function. Bee pollen help increase endurance, relieve stress, enhance
immunity, and reduce allergies.
- Essential fatty acids Omega 3's and Omega 6's
(evening primrose oil , black current seed oil, flax oil and salmon
oil).
- Lecithin for the nervous system.
- Chlorophyll.
- Glutamine is probably the most essential
non-essential amino acid going. It functions to boost the immune system,
to help muscle recovery, to reduce cortisol levels, and to inhibit food
and alcohol cravings.
Herbal Therapy
- Herbs to reduce sugar craving include: gymnema
sylvestre, stevia, and fenugreek.
- Licorice root simulates the adrenal function.
- Black cohosh and cayenne aid in the circulation of
the blood.
- Gotu Kola stimulates brain and relieves fatigue.
- Cayenne aids in circulation of blood, which brings
oxygen and other nutrients to cells in need of repair.
- Juniper berries and kelp clean and nourish the
glands.
- Lady's Slipper and licorice feed the adrenals and
provide energy.
- Lobelia and Mullein are good glandular foods.
- Dandelion Root acts as a blood purifier, contains an
abundance of minerals, and is good for the glandular system.
- Cedar Berry, Burdock, Chaparral, Goldenseal and
Siberian Ginseng have been used in combination for the treatment of
hypoglycemia. This combination helps to balance the blood sugar.
Exercise Therapy
Jumping on the trampoline is excellent for cleaning the
blood and the lymph. It improves circulation and helps to strengthen the
immune system. It helps to build endurance and rejuvenate the body
Regular aerobics strengthens the respiratory system.
Aerobic workout with weights also helps to build endurance. The number and
size of blood vessels carrying blood and nutrients to the body tissues
increases and nutrition improves.
Stretching reduces physical stress and fatigue.
Nutritional Supplements
The following Nutritional Supplements are
offered by Thin for Life for general health
well being and for those who have Candidiasis, Sugar Cravings, or
digestive problems. Some of these supplements help to give a state of well
being or calmness. This will replace some of the side effects of removing
sugar in the diet.
You can learn more about these supplements
by reading the Nutritional Support
Report and clicking on the product links to our online store.
Multi/Mineral Plus-Vitamin/Mineral
Supplement
Thin for Life "Core 4" Pack-Vitamin/Mineral
Supplement, essential fatty acid, antioxidant, probiotic
Balance Boost-Vitamin/Mineral
Supplement, essential fatty acid, St. John's Wort,5-HTP
Amino Therapy-Amino Acids
5-HTP (5-dyroxytryptamine)-Balance
brain chemicals
Canditrol-Treat candidiasis
L-glutamine-Sugar
cravings
Phase IV-Fiber
Ultra Flora Plus DF-Probiotic |
