Jan De Vries: Dealing With the Parasite Called Candida Albicans
They genuinely believed that this lady had been most co- operative and had followed the dietary advice conscientiously, but all to no avail. They were baffled by her lack of success.
During her consultation we discussed her lifestyle and general health and I told her that I thought she could have Candida albicans. This diagnosis was confirmed by her doctor following some tests, so we began her on a course of treatment. It soon became evident that the treatment of the Candida albicans parasite was successful when this lady started registering steady and considerable weight loss.
The symptoms of a Candida albicans parasite are various, but it is a lesser-known fact that metabolic action can be severely impaired, as was the case with this lady.
The Candida albicans parasite has never received a great deal of publicity and few people are aware that all of us carry a parasitic yeast or fungus in our bodies. On the whole this is nothing for us to worry about, unless this fungus is activated due to an inferior diet, the use of steroids, antibiotics or the contraceptive pill. Then this particular parasite can indeed become destructive.
If and when this parasitic fungus becomes active, the severity of the repercussions depends on the ability of the immune system to deal with it.
If we lack immunity the fungus may flourish. A Candida albicans parasite can manifest itself in different ways. For example, the overweight lady had a bloated and distended abdomen, chronic vaginal thrush as well as problems in the urinary tract and bladder, causing frequent attacks of cystitis.
She also experienced depression and irritability, chronic constipation and a variety of fungus-type rashes, especially on the scalp. In other cases complaints may include heartburn, abdominal pain, indigestion, flatulence or diarrhoea. There may also be inappropriate drowsiness, tiredness, swelling of the joints or heart palpitations. I have noticed that in many diagnosed cases of a Candida albicans parasite, people report feeling unwell after eating grains, most particularly wheat. Other reported symptoms include acne, sinusitis, nervous complaints, loss of memory, headaches, and let us not overlook allergies.
Indications
The symptoms may be aggravated by tobacco smoke, perfume, hairsprays or petrol fumes. Depending on working conditions, sometimes headaches and migraines seem to be the first indications. Vaginal fungus infections or thrush and disorders in the urinary system could also be an indication that the fungus is active. However, clinical evidence is essential, as the symptoms are so varied that they could equally indicate another single disease or illness. In fact it is now widely recognised in medical circles that antibiotics themselves could trigger the Candida albicans infection.
The anti-Candida therapy in conventional medicine will usually consist of drugs, which contain Nystatin. In alternative treatment the accent is placed on a long-term approach aimed at keeping this situation under control.
Therefore the treatment may take a little longer but, especially by reviewing the dietary habits of a Candida patient, we feel we have a better chance of controlling the problem and avoiding its recurrence.
Diet changes
It is important that the patient is regularly monitored by a doctor or practitioner and that the patient co-operates fully to overcome or control this problem. We often find that people are prepared to co-operate well up to a certain point, but when it comes to change in diet, they are invariably reluctant to change their habits.
If they succeed in cutting out yeast products, sugar, wine, mushrooms and cheese it would be of help, but if all fermented products were to be banished, even quicker results will be achieved. This category contains alcohol (including wine), all kinds of cheese, smoked fish and meats, sausages, hamburgers, hot dogs, nicotine and milk. Natural yogurt, however, is actually beneficial, especially when it is live yoghurt containing the acidophilus bacillus, which is used in yoghurt culture.
In cases of a severe thrush I have had to act contrary to my principles as a naturopath and warn the patient against the use of fresh vegetables and fruit. It is essential that they be avoided until the thrush has cleared up.
Using the known anti-Candida supplement Yeast Balance from Enzymatic Therapy and Spilanthes, commonly found in health food stores, could encourage friendly bacteria to stimulate the digestive system into further activity.
We are fortunate in that a variety of remedies are available for re-establishing an optimal intestinal micro-flora.
Sometimes I have been able to make an early diagnosis of Candida albicans when throat and mouth problems have been reported. A saliva test is a safe and reliable method to check if a Candida infection is present.
Read my book Viruses, Allergies & The Immune System for further information and advice Health problems? Jab answers readers’ questions
I have been bothered for years with incontinence and it is getting worse. i am finding it very, very embarrassing and i wondered if you could help me?
You could try doing some simple pelvic floor exercises to help strengthen the pelvic muscles and the bladder.
Next time you have to urinate try to stop the urine mid-flow. In addition, take some Uva Ursi Complex, which has astringent properties that help to tone the bladder.
My 28-year-old daughter gets constipation on a regular basis. Her diet is good and she drinks plenty of water. Can you recommend anything?
She should try to increase her intake of fibre by eating wholemeal/brown bread, wholemeal pasta and brown rice. Plenty of water is good for keeping stools hydrated, and exercise can also be of help such as walking or swimming. She may also wish to try Eliminex to help regulate her bowel and promote healthy bacteria in the gut.
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