Candida Overgrowth
Candida overgrowth is relentless. It is like a pimple that won’t go away. You think you have it under control and then, hello! It makes its reappearance in the form of indigestion, achy joints, acne, chronic fatigue and an itch that a loofah brush can only provide respite to. It is not solely an annoyance. Candida overgrowth disrupts your quality of life.
What is Candida Overgrowth?
We all have healthy levels of candida bacteria within our body. Our microbiome has approximately 39 trillion microbial cells which include bacteria, viruses and fungi that live on and within us. When your body develops too much candida, however, your health can suffer immensely. Below are a handful of things that create the perfect recipe for a World War II battle in your stomach!
Some symptoms of candida include oral thrush, fatigue, recurring UTI and/or yeast infections, digestive issues, joint pain, sinus infections and itchy skin. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms simultaneously, I highly suggest speaking with a professional to cure the candida before it spreads rampant.
Where It All Started
My candida overgrowth started in university as a consequence of binge drinking and eating, the use of antibiotics for strep throat and high cortisol (stress) levels. As my case of candida grew exponentially worse, I knew I had to take action to end the disharmony. Both my mental and physical health were headed south. I began reaching out to MDs who would generally provide a temporary solution and bolt out of their office. “Take this pill and come see me in two weeks if it does not go away,” they would remark hurriedly. That statement would always make my eyes disappear into the back of my skull.
Don’t Make This Mistake
I became desperate which led me to reach out to a naturopath based in the Danforth. She put me on a candida diet for six weeks, consisting of sugar-free, gluten-free and yeast-free foods. I started to feel better after two months. I had more energy, my stomach pain was waning and my skin was less itchy. Regrettably, I jumped the gun and decided to reintroduce all of the foods and beverages that I had consumed before: beyond burgers, chips, tofu, bread, coffee and a variety of sugary foods. I would think to myself foolishly, “Nothing can hurt me. I’m Annika Lepik. I’ll be fine.” I hate to break it to you, but you are not an immortal creature immune to destruction. Don’t get ahead of yourself!
The Lesson I Have Learned
It is now 2022 and I am still fighting for victory over this evil minion-like candida. I have begun seeing another naturopath who is currently running a series of tests to pinpoint the needle in the haystack. I am hopeful for the future and can confidently say that this situation has taught me the importance of good health. Additionally, I can move forward with more gratitude for my body and all that it does to keep me functioning optimally. This process has taught me a lot about myself, particularly the value of patience, proactivity and what a low-stress life can help one to accomplish.
Tips for Living Candida-Free
Listen to your body.
Take a probiotic daily.
Eat a well-balanced diet catered to your specific body weight, height, goals and nutritional needs.
Limit refined and processed foods.
Find ways to moderate stress (e.g., meditation, exercise, painting or gardening).
Monitor your hormone levels.
Steer clear from excessively using antibiotics.
Speak with a professional such as Shannon from https://adioscandida.com/.
95 percent of the serotonin in your body is produced in your gut. Therefore, a happy gut truly means a happy life. Fuel your gut with feel-good micro and macronutrients. You deserve it!
Read more from Annika here: https://thebloomingflower.ca/