Candida and Weight Loss: An Informational Guide

Many people attribute common symptoms to an overgrowth of Candida albicans in the intestines. This article explores the connection between Candida, weight loss, and the Candida diet, providing a comprehensive overview of the topic.

Understanding Candida

Candida is the most common fungus in the human body. The genus Candida includes more than 150 different species of yeast that live on the skin and in the mouth, throat, gut, and vagina. Many of these species naturally occur in various parts of your body. Candida albicans, in particular, is a fungus-like organism that is common in the human gut, also called the digestive system. Normal concentrations of Candida yeast promote gut health and nutrient absorption and also aid digestion. It’s often found in areas like the mouth, skin, digestive tract, toenails, rectum, and vagina.

Candidiasis: When Candida Overgrows

Candidiasis refers to a fungal infection that results from an overgrowth of Candida. While generally harmless, an overgrowth of this fungus can lead to infection. When the candida present in your system starts to become more prevalent in relation to the other organisms (your microflora) residing there, it can cause local infections, commonly referred to as thrush.

Symptoms of Candidiasis

Possible symptoms of a candida infection include:

• Nausea
• Bloating, constipation, or diarrhea
• Chronic fatigue
• Skin issues such as eczema or rashes
• Recurrent urinary tract infections
• Irritability and mood swings
• Anxiety or depression
• Joint pain

Symptoms of candidiasis of the mouth, throat, or esophagus include:

Read also: Breakfast on the Candida Diet

• White patches on the inside of the mouth
• Inflammation and soreness of the throat
• Pain while eating or swallowing
• Persistent dryness of the mouth

Symptoms of candidiasis of the vagina include:

• Itching or soreness of the vagina and vulva
• Pain when urinating
• Pain during intercourse
• Thick, white vaginal discharge that resembles cottage cheese

Risk Factors for Candida Overgrowth

Several risk factors can affect a person’s risk of developing Candida overgrowth, including:

• A diet high in refined carbs and sugar
• High alcohol consumption
• Elevated stress levels
• Imbalance in your microbiota
• Improper use of catheters
• Birth control pills or antibiotics
• A diabetes mellitus diagnosis
• A weak immune system
• Recent antibiotic use
• Having a weakened immune system
• Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or kidney failure
• Long-term use of antibiotics, steroids and some birth control pills
• Pregnancy
• Being overweight
• Having an existing bacterial infection
• Having a pre-existing health condition such as a compromised immune system, diabetes or psoriasis

Those with severely compromised immune systems are considered to be most at risk.

Candida and Weight Loss: Is There a Connection?

Candida overgrowth can be a significant barrier to you losing weight, and any weight loss for that matter. Some people blame many common symptoms on the overgrowth of the funguslike organism Candida albicans in the intestines. They may say this fungus causes symptoms such as fatigue, headache, and poor memory.

Candida's Fuel Source

Yeast feeds off of good old sugar - that is its preferred fuel source. In looking at the association between Candida and weight gain, the first thing you as a consumer need to examine is the fuel source for yeast (and subsequently Candida). Part of the dilemma is that the sugar/carb phenomenon is a catch-22. Here’s what I mean by that. Yeast feeds off of the sugar you eat, so a diet high in sugars and carbs will perpetuate Candida overgrowth; and yet Candida overgrowth will set you up for more cravings for more sugars and carbs. Furthermore, yeast will crave not only sugar, but more yeast . What is alcohol? Sugar and yeast. What is wine? Same thing. Plus a bunch of “empty” calories. I know many individuals who crave wine or beer - not because they have a drinking problem - but because they have a yeast overgrowth and they’re predisposed to that because of Candida.

Read also: Popcorn on a Candida Cleanse

Candida, Leaky Gut, and Nutrient Absorption

Candida overgrowth also compromises proper absorption of nutrients. It is associated with “leaky gut”, which means the gap between the intestinal cells widens . This then leads to nutrients not being well absorbed, as well as larger-than-normal food molecules escaping into the blood stream triggering immune reactions and inflammation.

Addressing Candida Overgrowth

Addressing Candida overgrowth can be done through your diet, although even the most rigid anti-Candida diets are rarely enough to eradicate the problem. The balanced option is dietary modifications, coupled with Ultra Cleanse. Many people find that once yeast overgrowth is addressed, their cravings for sugars and carbs are reduced and then they find out that their weight loss is much easier.

The Candida Diet: An Overview

Some claim eating and avoiding certain foods can reduce or prevent Candida yeast infections. To cure these symptoms, some people try a candida cleanse diet. The candida diet is a strict diet meant to alleviate the symptoms of candida infections. The candida diet requires people to avoid foods and drinks that could increase the risk of Candida overgrowth. People following the candida diet limit or avoid certain foods, such as sugar, gluten, alcohol, and some dairy products, that may promote the growth of Candida yeast in the body. It focuses on organic, low-sugar, high-quality produce, meats and fats.

How the Candida Diet Works

The diet removes foods such as sugar, white flour, yeast and cheese from the typical diet. The diet focuses instead on eating lean proteins, healthful fats, nonstarchy vegetables, and probiotics. The aim of these foods is to help minimize inflammation and balance the concentrations of bacteria inside the gut.

Theoretically, people may have a lower risk of developing Candida infections if they eliminate foods that contribute to yeast growth.

Read also: Best Bread for Candida

Foods to Eat on the Candida Diet

People who want to follow the Candida diet should try incorporating the following types of food into their diet:

• Nonstarchy vegetables, which include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale, onions, and tomatoes.
• Low-sugar fruits, such as citrus fruits, olives, and berries, but only in moderation. Lemon, limes, berries (may be eaten in small amounts).
• Lean proteins, including chicken, eggs, and fish. Chicken, eggs, salmon, turkey and sardines (organic, pasture-raised and wild-caught varieties are best).
• Healthy fats, such as avocado, coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil, and flaxseed oil. Avocado, olives, unrefined coconut oil, flax oil, extra-virgin olive oil and sesame oil.
• Fermented foods, for example, sauerkraut, kimchi, and yogurt. Probiotics such as yogurts and fermented foods like kimchi.
• Gluten-free grains, such as quinoa, oat bran, buckwheat, and rice. Millet, quinoa, oat bran and buckwheat.
• Low mold nuts and seeds, which include almonds, coconut, flaxseed, and sunflower seeds. Almonds, sunflower seeds, coconut or flaxseed.
• Certain dairy products, such as butter and ghee, and products that contain live active cultures, such as kefir and yogurt. Butter, ghee, organic kefir or plain yogurt.
• Natural sugar free sweeteners, including stevia, monk fruit extract, erythritol, and xylitol. Stevia, erythritol and xylitol.
• Herbs and spices: Black pepper, salt, cinnamon, dill, garlic, ginger, oregano, rosemary, paprika, turmeric and thyme.
• Condiments: Apple cider vinegar, coconut aminos and sauerkraut.
• Non-caffeinated beverages: Herbal teas, chicory coffee, filtered water, homemade almond milk, coconut milk (look for one without additives) and water infused with lemon or lime.

In addition, probiotic supplements may help alleviate inflammation, kill off harmful organisms and reduce the prevalence of candida and infection symptoms.

Foods to Avoid on the Candida Diet

The candida diet strictly prohibits the consumption of sugar, gluten, alcohol, and dairy products that contain high quantities of lactose. While on the candida diet, people should avoid the following foods:

• Starchy vegetables, such as potatoes, corn, beans, and peas.
• High-sugar fruits, which include bananas, mangoes, figs, and raisins. Bananas, dates, raisins, grapes and mango.
• Certain meats, such as processed meats and farm-raised fish. Deli meats and farm-raised fish.
• Grains that contain gluten, including wheat, barley, and rye. Wheat, rye, barley and spelt.
• Dairy products high in lactose, such as milk and soft cheeses. Cheese, milk and cream.
• Processed fats and oils, for example, canola oil, soybean oil, and margarine. Canola oil, soybean oil, sunflower oil or margarine.
• Simple sugars and artificial sweeteners, such as sucrose, aspartame, agave, maple syrup, corn syrup, and honey. Aspartame, agave, cane sugar, corn syrup, honey, maple syrup, molasses and table sugar.
• Some types of nuts and seeds, including peanuts, pecans, pistachios, and cashews. Peanuts, cashews, pecans and pistachios.
• Certain drinks, such as caffeinated coffee and tea, sugar-sweetened beverages, and alcohol. Caffeinated teas, coffee, energy drinks, soda, fruit juice, beer, wine or spirits.
• Additives: Nitrates or sulfates.
• Refined carbs such as white flour
• Condiments: Ketchup, soy sauce, white vinegar, BBQ sauce, horseradish or mayonnaise.

Sample Candida Diet Menu

This sample menu provides foods that are acceptable on the candida diet. Adjust this menu based on your own preferences.

• Monday

  • Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with tomatoes and avocado on the side
  • Lunch: Turkey atop a salad of greens, avocado slices, cabbage, broccoli and an olive oil dressing
  • Dinner: Stir-fry of quinoa, chicken breast, steamed vegetables and coconut aminos

• Tuesday

  • Breakfast: Yogurt parfait made with plain yogurt, 1/4 cup (25 grams) of berries, cinnamon and almonds
  • Lunch: Thai red curry chicken (try this recipe)
  • Dinner: Salmon cakes served with steamed broccoli and a cup of bone broth

• Wednesday

  • Breakfast: Turkey-and-sage breakfast sausages (like these) with a side of Brussels sprouts
  • Lunch: Lemon-roasted chicken served over salad greens
  • Dinner: Hamburger patty (no bun), topped with avocado and served with steamed vegetables and sauerkraut

• Thursday

  • Breakfast: Vegetable omelet made with eggs, shallots, spinach and tomatoes
  • Lunch: Leftover turkey-and-sage breakfast sausages with a side of sautéed cabbage
  • Dinner: Coconut curry chicken over quinoa and steamed vegetables

• Friday

  • Breakfast: Omelet made with red peppers, onions, kale and fried eggs
  • Lunch: Turkey meatballs with a kale salad and millet topped with ghee
  • Dinner: Wild-caught salmon seasoned with lemon and dill, plus a side of asparagus

• Saturday

  • Breakfast: Buckwheat breakfast muffins (try this recipe) with chicory coffee
  • Lunch: Leftover coconut curry chicken over quinoa and steamed vegetables
  • Dinner: Zucchini noodles topped with chicken, raw garlic, pesto and olive oil

• Sunday

  • Breakfast: Smoothie made from plain kefir, a handful of berries, almond butter, coconut and cinnamon
  • Lunch: Chef salad of hard boiled eggs, turkey, tomatoes, cucumbers, olives and an olive-oil-based dressing
  • Dinner: Chicken fajita bowl made with chicken, peppers, onions, cilantro, avocado and salad greens

Candida Cleanse

Before beginning the candida diet, advocates recommend going on a candida cleanse. This is a short-term diet that proponents believe will alleviate stress on your digestive tract and release toxins from your body. While no studies support the benefits of a candida cleanse, it might help get you into the mindset for the candida diet.

There are many ways to do a cleanse, but two common ways are:

• Drinking only fluids, such as lemon water or bone broth.
• Eating mainly vegetables, such as salads and steamed vegetables, alongside a small amount of protein throughout the day.

Some people may experience negative symptoms while starting a cleanse, such as fatigue, headaches, mood swings or changes in sleep patterns. Keep in mind that the candida cleanse should not last more than a few days. After you complete the cleanse, you can start following the candida diet’s food guidelines.

Important Considerations Before Starting the Candida Diet

Before starting the candida diet, there are several things to consider:

• Start out slow: Instead of removing sugar, caffeine and gluten from your diet all at once, focus on removing one thing at a time to ease the process.
• It’s meant to be short-term: This diet is meant to be used short-term until your symptoms have improved. It’s not meant to replace a long-term diet plan.
• There is no specific timetable for the candida diet. The diet’s proponents claim that people may experience relief in a matter of weeks, while others may require many months to see a positive effect.
• It’s best to work with a healthcare provider when undertaking the candida diet to ensure adequate nutrient intake.

Vulnerable groups should exercise caution before adopting such a restrictive diet, these include:

• Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Diabetics
• The elderly
• The young (under 18 years of age)
• Those who are on prescribed medication
• Those who have a low body mass index (BMI less than 18.5)
• Those with emotional or psychological issues around food, including any history of eating disorders

If you have symptoms that are causing you concern, or you suspect you have a fungal infection, refer to your GP or health care practitioner.

If you are considering any form of diet, please consult your GP or a registered dietician first to ensure you can do so without risk to health.

Scientific Evidence and Effectiveness

There isn't much proof to support the diagnosis of yeast syndrome. There is little high-quality research into the candida diet. Although laboratory research suggests that these substances may contribute to yeast growth, no substantial evidence exists to support using the candida diet as a treatment for yeast infections. However, current scientific evidence has yet to confirm the diet’s effectiveness. Still, to date, no studies have confirmed the diet’s effectiveness.

On the other hand, and not surprisingly, many people may notice that their health seems to improve when following this diet. If you stop eating sugar and white flour, you'll generally cut out most processed foods. Within a few weeks of replacing processed foods with fresh ones and replacing white flour with whole grains, you may start to feel better in general.

A varied, nutrient-dense diet rich in fiber, healthy fats, and probiotics may aid gut health and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal candida growth.

Research Findings

• A small test tube study suggests that replacing sugar with certain sugar alternatives may reduce candida growth in the mouth.
• A small 2019 study similarly found that consumption of purified wheat products was associated with increased candida growth.
• One 3-month study in 120 people with intestinal candida overgrowth showed that dietary changes had significantly reduced the numbers of candida yeasts in stool, compared to those who didn’t change their diet.
• One 2018 study that involved a candida diet combined with an anti-fungal medication reported those people who adopted the diet had significantly reduced numbers of candida yeasts in their stool, compared to those who didn’t.

Due to the complex, multi-factorial nature of a person’s diet and lifestyle, these studies are insufficient to prove the efficacy of the candida diet.

Potential Benefits of the Candida Diet

Despite the lack of evidence supporting the candida diet’s effectiveness, it has many potential benefits due to its focus on healthy foods.

• The diet consists of whole foods that can also be beneficial for weight loss, heart health, gut function and reduced inflammation in your body.
• The diet also focuses on removing sugary foods, which have been linked to obesity, diabetes, heart disease and metabolic syndrome.
• Reducing sugar intake and prioritizing a diet rich in fiber, healthy fats, and probiotics may benefit overall health and is a good option for many people.

A diet such as this can be beneficial for anyone - even those without candida overgrowth.

Potential Downsides of the Candida Diet

• One major pitfall of the candida diet is that there is little human research into its effectiveness - and available research is controversial.
• Another downside is the diet’s strictness. Sugar, gluten, most fruits, starchy vegetables, some meats, nuts, seeds, alcohol and caffeine are banned on this diet. Therefore, it requires more work to adjust to this eating style.
• The candida diet may also pose difficulties if you’re on a budget or don’t enjoy cooking and meal planning.
• Eliminating such a wide variety of foods may leave you at risk of an unbalanced and nutritionally inadequate diet.
• The diet is restrictive and as a result challenging

Fortunately, this diet has a limited scope. It’s intended to be followed only while you are experiencing symptoms of candida infection.

tags: #candida #and #weight #loss #informational