Dr. Holly
Dr. Holly
Dr. Holly

Candida is the most common cause of fungal infections worldwide. While candida is usually associated with vaginal infections, different Candidas can be found in the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts as well.  In addition, they are usually found in low numbers on the skin, usually the dryness of the skin prevents any overgrowth, as opposed to the mucosal membranes.

In fact, candida can effect any part of the body AND can become systemic if they get into blood system.

While many species are harmless, when they effect the mucosal lining of the intestines all kinds of issues can evolve.  Candida albicans is the most common species that gets out of control in the human system.  Once they get out of control in the gut, they can enter the blood system and become systemic.

When candida immunocompromises the immune system, they can cause:

  • Abscess
  • Thrombophlebitis
  • Endocarditis
  • Eye infections

The following is a short list of some of the types that can cause issues with humans:

Candida Albicans – most commonly isolate species

  • Candidiasis or thrush (oral)
  • Ferments glucose & maltose to acid and gas; sucrose to acid
  1. dubliniensis.

– close to C. Albicans;

– found in HIV positives, those with chemotherapy, organ transplants; diabetics who use insulin

– found in vaginal, oral, respiratory, stool, urine

  1. glabarata

        – found in the urogenital tract, blood stream (Candidemia)

– found in those with HIV, elderly, & the immunocompromised

– forms on medical equipment, ie, urinary catheters

– use boric acid as vaginal suppositories

  1. Krusei

        – primarily found in immunocompromised; those w hematological malignancies

– also used in chocolate production

– can grow in a vitamin free media

  1. lusitaniae

        – found with bone marrow transplants, chemotherapy, neutropenics

  1. parapsilosis,

– can cause sepsis – in wounds / tissues of immune compromised people

– found on the hands and in the GIT of surgical clts

  1. tropicalis

        – found in neutropenic hosts

– GIT symptoms include:  excessive gas, constipation/diarrhea; food sensitivities; indigestion;

stomach cramps

  • Skin symptoms include: severe itching; swelling, eczematous rashes; hives
  • CNS symptoms: memory loss; headaches; depression; anxiety/panic

Vulvovaginal Candida

  • 2nd most common yeast infection
  • Inhabits skin and GIT
  • Found in immunocompromised, leukemia, diabetes, some cancers
  • Can spread through the whole body
  • Usually reside in intestine, mucus membranes and on the skin

Generalized Treatment:

 AVOID ALL SUGARS / synthetic sugars; simple carbs that turn into sugar; alcohol

EAT probiotic rich foods:  yogurt (without fruit), kefir, sauerkraut, coleslaw, kombucca, kimchee

USE coconut oil in vaginal area and on skin and eat liberally

USE probiotic supplements

Depending on the type of candida, different protocols are effective.

 Here’s to your health!
For more information, contact: Dr Holly at holly@choicesunlimited.ca
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