This excerpt is taken from The Encyclopaedia of Natural Medicine by Michael Murry ND and Joseph Pizzorno ND.
Poor immune function can occur as a result of antibiotic use or nutrient deficiency as a result of candida albicans overgrowing and becoming firmly entrenched in the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. Once the organism attaches itself to the intestinal cells, it competes with the cell and ultimately the entire body for nutrition, potentially robbing the body of vital nutrients.
Candida albicans secretes a large number of toxins and antigens (remember those are the ones that are supposed to attack the foreign invaders but in the case with alopecia, they confuse the hair follicle as being foreign). Furthermore it is referred to as a ‘polyantigenic’ organism because over 79 distinct antigens have been identified. As a result it greatly taxes the immune system.
Treatment
There isn’t a single magic bullet that can immediately restore immune function in patients with chronic candidiasis. Instead a comprehensive approach involving lifestyle, stress management, exercise, a yeast free diet, nutritional supplementation, glandular therapy and plant based medicines is used.
Perhaps the most effective intervention in reestablishing a healthy immune system is employing measures designed to improve thymus function – antioxidants such as Vit C, Vit E, zinc and selenium. In addition liver support may be necessary, detoxification, a yeast free diet and probiotics will also successfully eliminate chronic candidiasis.
Typical Chronic Candidiasis Patient Profile
Females between the ages of 15 – 50
Symptoms
- chronic fatigue
- loss of energy
- general malaise
- decreased libido
- thrush
- bloating, gas
- intestinal cramps
- rectal itching
- altered bowel function
- vaginal yeast infection
- frequent bladder infections
- menstrual complaints
- depression
- irritability
- inability to concentrate
- allergies
- chemical sensitivities
- low immune function
- chronic vaginal yeast infections
- chronic antibiotic use
- oral birth control usage
- oral steroid hormone usage
- PMS
- sensitivity to foods, chemicals and allergens
- eczema, psoriasis
- irritable bowel syndrome
- cravings for foods rich in carbohydrates or yeast
