Candida albicans is a yeast that is present in our digestive tract (and also in the vaginal tract in women).  It does not normally present any problems however, it can become a problem when an overgrowth occurs.  Amongst others, this overgrowth may be caused by poor dietary habits, regular/prolonged use of antibiotics or impaired immune function.  Long-term use of oral contraceptives may also lead to yeast overgrowth. 

An overgrowth of Candida can lead to a variety of symptoms including: IBS, bloating and general digestive disturbance, fatigue, poor concentration, nausea, headaches, athletes foot and thrush.   If your think that you may have a candida overgrowth you can try the dietary changes below.  However, if your symptoms do not improve after about a month candida is not the problem. 

You should be aware that the anti candida diet involves avoiding a large number of foods which contribute to yeast overgrowth and because of this you may lose weight.  Therefore you should not attempt this diet if you suffer from any medical condition or if you are pregnant. Also be aware that during the first few weeks of this programme you may feel nauseous due to toxins being released into the blood system. 

Anti Candida diet – Foods to Avoid

• Refined carbohydrates including; white bread, pasta, rice and other gains, biscuits, soft drinks, sweets and chocolate. 
• Sugar, including honey, molasses, syrup, malt and malted foods, fructose, glucose, sucrose, maltose, dextrose and treacle. Basically, avoid anything sweet.
• All foods containing yeast including bread, pizza, Marmite, Bovril.
• Cow’s milk and milk products. Note, yoghurt is permitted as the milk sugar (lactose) is converted to lactic acid by the live bacteria.
• Fermented foods and drinks including; alcoholic drinks, vinegar and foods with vinegar, soy sauce, mustard chutney.
• Fresh fruit for the first few weeks.
• Check every food for hidden ingredients.

Anti candida diet – foods you can have:

• Vegetables, potatoes, pulses, salads.
• Meat, fish, eggs, tofu, beans and pulses. 
• Yeast free bread eg soda bread, wholegrain rice, rice cakes.
• Wholemeal crisp breads eg. Ryvita, oatcakes
• Oats/porridge
• Soya milk, rice milk (sugar free)
• Live plain yoghurt, butter, cottage cheese
• Nuts and seeds, nut spreads, tahini. 
• Soups.
• Salad dressing (made from olive or flax oils), lemon juice, garlic, black pepper
• Hummus, taramasalata.

Remember that your diet should consist of unprocessed wholefood.  Meat, fish and vegetables are going to be your mainstay. 

Supplements that may be of benefit

Acidophilus will be of help as this acidifies the colon which discouranges the growth of yeast.

Antifungals including; garlic, ogegano, pau d’arco, grapefruit seed extract (citricidal), caprylic acid.

Herbs to support the liver including dandelion, milkthistle and artichoke. 

Tests

There are a number of tests for candida overgrowth.  It is advisable to take these prior to embarking on dietary changes and a supplement protocol.