The Candida Guide
5 STEPS TO: Cleanse, Control, & Cure
Before I go into a quick but thorough guide of naturally treating candida overgrowth, I'd like to share my own personal story regarding my own candida experience. It all started back when I was in elementary school. A test for TB came out slightly positive, (because I had a large dose of the vaccine overseas) it was enough for my school to request a chest X-ray. The doctor who examined the X-ray told me although I did not have active TB, trace amounts were present and to eliminate a future threat, it was recommended that I take
Antibiotics . These were powerful, wide spectrum
Antibiotics that I had to take every single day for 10 months!
Midway through the 'treatment' I began to feel changes in my body and my overall health. I started having IBS symptoms.. as well as random outbreaks of acne-like pimples throughout my body. Doctors I went could not identify what the pimples were.. and the IBS symptoms were deemed to be "normal". After the
Antibiotics were finished, the symptoms did not go away, but only got worse. I began to develop severe sinus infections, eczema just about every winter, and IBS was so bad I became intolerant of certain foods. This continued for so long, but I was too young to understand what was happening to my body. Professional doctors were only prescribing drugs that offered temporary relief from symptoms, never detecting and treating the underlying problem.
Growing into my teens, my symptoms never left me alone. I began to eat foods high in sugar, feeding the candida from within. I developed lots of itching all over, and one day... one day I ate some pickles and had the most intense itchy reaction I ever experienced in my whole life. I decided I should get to the bottom of it and do some research. Since then, I have come a great long way in not only identifying what my problem was all these years, but ways to naturally and effectively treat it. I'd like to share this information with everyone else, so we can all recover from this stealthy monster..
As most of us know by now, Candida is an opportunistic pathogen, present in non-harmful yeast form in everyone's gut. When the gut flora balance is disturbed, the yeast colonies can quickly multiply exponentially and condense into a fungal state, becoming a serious problem. Gut flora is something that modern day medicine and
Science understands little of, yet we have trillions of microorganisms living inside our gut. Here is a fun fact, did you know the human body carries about 100 trillion microorganisms in our intestines? That is ten times more than the number of human cells inside our body! We are literally an ecosystem of living organisms, and their balance greatly impacts our overall health. When the balance is disturbed, we develop a wide range of health problems that modern
Science identifies but fails to understand the actual cause.
Luckily, there is many things that can be done to treat this overgrowth, and put our bodies back into balance; thus curing the candida. I will share my own personal candida protocol that I have used, recommend the same products I have used, and hopefully, you too can be on the path of recovery.
First of all, the primary thing to do when starting your candida recovery is diet. Sugars and carbohydrates, along with unhealthy fats feed candida.. when candida takes the reins over your tongue, known as "mouth thrush", it will actually force you to crave the foods it wants! It is important to change your diet to weaken the candida.. this alone will not get rid of the problem, but it is important to slow the spread and gain an advantage for the next step.
STEP 1- THE DIET:
I won't be getting in-depth regarding the candida diet.. because there already are a lot of "anti-candida diet" plans out there that you can find online. My only input is this: You don't have to go crazy with the diet like how other "Candida diet" experts claim.. reduce your
Sugar intake, but do not eliminate it. Eating natural sugars from fruits is O.K. Just avoid breads, refined sugars of all kinds, artificial flavorings and colors. Eat plenty of vegetables, unprocessed meats, and some fruits.
STEP 2- THE ANTIFUNGALS:
The next step is crucial. About 2 weeks after starting your candida diet, you have to begin the next phase. This phase is when you actually begin to kill the candida, and prohibit it's growth. It won't be easy, the candida will fight back, but it will be effective. Natural antifungals are the best way to combat candida, because they put less strain on your liver and kidneys than a prescribed antifungal drug.
I will recommend all of the antifungals that I have used myself. They can all be found on
http://www.iherb.com. iherb is a Google trusted online retailer, they offer the best prices on quality products. The best part, if your order is over $20, free shipping anywhere within the U.S. Being a member myself, you can use my promo code for an additional $5-10 discount on your first order. Enter code: VZL490 at checkout.
Below is a list of antifungals and their properties. You do not need to use all of that, choose what seems best for you. Personally I would recommend the coconut oil for ease of use and the apple cider vinegar because it is unique in that it balances your pH.
1- Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is by far one of the most potent natural antifungals around. It is also extremely versatile, as you can use it topically on your skin, eat it raw, or even use it for cooking. It contains lots of healthy fats, vitamins, and anti-microbial properties. The coconut oil I use is RAW, VIRGIN, NON-GMO, and USDA ORGANIC. The best part, it tastes great! You can find it here:
http://www.iherb.com/Artisana-Organics-Raw-Coconut-Oil-Extra-Virgin-16-fl-oz-473-ml/27183#p=1&oos=1&disc=0&lc=en-US&w=coconut%20oil&rc=2900&sr=null&ic=1 Remember, you can use code: VZL490 for a quick and easy discount.
2- Oregano Oil & Olive Leaf: The oil of wild oregano contains a compound called carvacrol, a natural antimicrobial agent. Oregano oil has many other health benefits outside of candida control, be sure to do some research and you will be amazed by the recent findings. Olive leaf is also another amazing anti-fungal, it's active compound is called oleuropein. It's the same stuff found in extra virgin olive oil that give it it's many healthy and healing properties. The concentrated form in the olive leaf extract offers a more potent dosage. They are also an absolute remedy for seasonal colds and flus, so it's great to have in the household. The brand I use has both oils mixed into one bottle for convenience, and it also lasts a long time. You can find it here:
http://www.iherb.com/Life-Time-Oregano-Oil-Olive-Leaf-2-fl-oz-59-ml/6139#p=1&oos=1&disc=0&lc=en-US&w=life%20time%20oregano%20oil%20%26%20olive%20leaf&rc=252&sr=null&ic=1 The discount code: VZL490
3- Grapefruit Seed Extract: Grapefruit seed extract contains high potency antifungal properties similar to coconut oil. However, due to it's strong flavor, I prefer to use it in tablet form. The brand I buy from are NON-GMO and the tablets are produced in a bacteria free environment. You can find them here:
http://www.iherb.com/NutriBiotic-Grapefruit-Seed-Extract-125-mg-100-Tablets/4214#p=1&oos=1&disc=0&lc=en-US&w=grapefruit%20seed%20extract&rc=5917&sr=null&ic=1 Promo code: VZL490
4- Organic Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar contains active enzymes that help break down Candida. The live enzymes are referred to as "The Mother" and can be visibly seen when it settles on the bottom of the bottle. Shaking the bottle before each use is required. However, the ACV MUST be organic, raw, and unpasteurized. That is because pasteurized vinegar kills the live bacteria and enzymes which give the ACV it's beneficial properties. ACV also helps balance your body pH levels.. when your body is too acidic, it creates an environment where diseases like to grow. That's why having an alkaline body, but an acidic stomach and intestines is crucial for gut flora balance. The organic ACV I use is USDA certified, and is probably the best there is worldwide. You can find it here:
http://www.iherb.com/Bragg-Organic-Apple-Cider-Vinegar-with-The-Mother-Raw-Unfiltered-16-fl-oz-473-ml/5817#p=1&oos=1&disc=0&lc=en-US&w=bragg&rc=6&sr=null&ic=5 Use code: VZL490
5- Lemongrass: Lemongrass contains antifungal properties because it breaks down the tough outer layer of the fungal cells called chitin. I recommend taking lemongrass in tea form. It has a very aromatic scent and citrus flavor. It also helps aid digestion and soothes the stomach. The lemongrass tea I use is by Alvita Teas, and it is USDA ORGANIC. You can find it here:
http://www.iherb.com/Alvita-Teas-Organic-Lemongrass-Tea-Caffeine-Free-24-Tea-Bags-1-69-oz-48-g/55481#p=1&oos=1&disc=0&lc=en-US&w=lemongrass%20tea&rc=244&sr=null&ic=2 Use code: VZL490 at checkout
STEP 3: BODY CLEANSE
Although this step is really part of step 2, it deserves a separate description because of it's different role. Remember when I said the candida will fight back when you attack it with antifungals? Now it's time to explain. After your diet has weakened the candida, the antifungals do the bombing, killing the candida by the masses.. during this period you will experience general uncomfort.. this period is referred to as a the "Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction", or commonly known as "die-off" reaction. When the candida dies, it will release many different toxins into your body. These toxins are released all the time as the candida strives, however when you are killing the candida, it will release them all at once. There is nothing serious to be afraid of as the die off reactions will just generally make you feel fatigued, headaches, and possible digestive issues like constipation or diarrhea. This is because your cleansing agents, the liver and kidneys, will be taxed with cleansing your body of all the toxins from the dead candida. You can improve your cleansing and support your liver/kidney while taking the antifungals to minimize the die-off reactions and speed-up recovery time. Here are some natural ways to help your body cleanse.
1- Cilantro: Cilantro is a known natural heavy metal chelator.. it is packed with vital vitamins and fibers for your cleanse. Add some fresh cilantro to some salad. Purchase at local grocery store.
2- Parsley: A relative of cilantro, has the same effects, but with more vitamins. Add them to salad.
3- Dandelion leaves: Work wonders with your liver and your kidney. Naturally detoxifies them and helps maintain their duties. Eat them raw in salad.. or make soup to reduce bitterness.
4- Silymarin Milk Thistle: Supports liver function. Great for candida cleanse. You can purchase them in tablet form here:
http://www.iherb.com/Now-Foods-Silymarin-Milk-Thistle-Extract-150-mg-120-Vcaps/794#p=1&oos=1&disc=0&lc=en-US&w=now%20silymarin&rc=41&sr=null&ic=2 Discount promo code: VZL490
5- Turmeric: Best used as a powder, add them to just about anything.. from rice to chicken. It also works as a general anti-inflammatory to improve your body function. You can buy organic ground turmeric root here:
http://www.iherb.com/Frontier-Natural-Products-Organic-Turmeric-Root-Ground-1-41-oz-40-g/35859#p=1&oos=1&disc=0&lc=en-US&w=turmeric&rc=1003&sr=null&ic=17 Discount promo code: VZL490
6- Chlorella: Deemed a superfood, chlorella is the richest natural source of chlorophyll. It is bioavailable with the borken cell wall, nutrient dense, and contains essential active enzymes. It is also a good heavy metal chelator. You can purchase NON GMO, ORGANIC Chlorella tablets here:
http://www.iherb.com/Green-Foods-Corporation-Organic-Chlorella-500-mg-120-Tablets/34639#p=1&oos=1&disc=0&lc=en-US&w=chlorella&rc=616&sr=null&ic=23 Discount promo code: VZL490
STEP 3.5: (OPTIONAL) EXTERNAL CARE
This is an optional step that focuses on external treatment of candida.. although the internal treatment will eventually benefit and heal the external problems (such as skin issues) that may be present, you can speed up the recovery process by using topical treatments.
-Organic Body Wash: This body wash contains 100% natural and organic ingredients. It is a foaming lather that is gentle yet thorough.. it cleans your skin, and detoxifies it using agents mentioned above in the antifungals section. You can find the product here:
http://www.iherb.com/Nature-s-Paradise-Body-Organic-Coconut-Cream-Foaming-Body-Wash-18-oz-532-32-ml/25848 Discount promo code: VZL490
-Hand lotion: This hand lotion contains mostly organic ingredients which moisturize, nourish, and protect your skin. You can find it here:
http://www.iherb.com/Madre-Labs-Hand-Cream-With-Argan-Nut-Oil-Unscented-2-5-oz-71-g/38095#p=1&oos=1&disc=0&lc=en-US&w=madre%20labs&rc=19&sr=null&ic=2 Discount promo code: VZL490
STEP 4: PROBITOIC RESTORATION
By now you should have already begun to feel better. However, it is extremely crucial that you do not skip this final, vital step for recovery. After weakening the candida, killing most of it, and cleansing the body, you now have to reintroduce the beneficial bacteria that were killed off in order to restore the gut flora in your intestines. This is the seal, for a permanent control over the candida.. if this step is skipped the candida will return and it will be even more difficult to defeat.
Factors that determine probiotic effectiveness include:
Delivery method: How the probiotics are delivered into the body. The bacteria can die by the time they reach your intestines, so a protective coating is important.
Amount of colony forming units: You will need billions of CFU's to have an impact on the trillions of microorganisms in your gut.
Types of strains of CFUS: Having different strains of bacteria is important because it encourages diversity and they each have a different role.. whether it be breaking down the foods you ate, to repairing and protecting the inner layer of your intestines, to keeping harmful bacteria populations in check.
I have spent a large amount of time trying to find the best probiotics and I believe that I have done so. "Hyperbiotics" have patented technology that have a protective shell on their micropearls, keeping the bacteria alive as it passes through your stomach acid. Thus it is 15x more effective in reaching your intestines, and it has a time-release technology, gradually releasing the bacteria rather than dumping it all at once. It contains 5 billion CFUS and 15 strains. It is not available to purchase from retailers because Hyperbiotics takes their product and it's shelf life seriously. You have to purchase it directly from Amazon, the link here:
http://www.amazon.com/PRO-15-Recommended-Supplement-Technology-Probiotics/dp/B00JEKYNZA/ref=sr_1_1?m=A2SCMGMB9GAZTI&s=merchant-items&ie=UTF8&qid=1423007620&sr=1-1&pebp=1423007680171&peasin=B00JEKYNZA *I have no promo code for this item.
With probiotics, prebiotics are just as important. Prebiotics feed your probiotics, to ensure that the probiotics can settle down and have a permanent residence inside your gut. I believe the best prebiotic is a special kind of honey from beechwood trees. Unlike normal honey, this honey is not floral but comes from tree sap. It is from a honey supplier in New Zealand called "Wedderspoon". It is certified organic by ECOCERT CANADA, it is raw and unpastuerized honey. Drizzle it in yogurts, salads, and fruit. Link below:
http://www.iherb.com/Wedderspoon-Organic-Inc-Active-Beechwood-Honey-100-Raw-Organic-17-6-oz-500g/24916#p=1&oos=1&disc=0&lc=en-US&w=beechwood&rc=2&sr=null&ic=1 Discount promo code: VZL490
STEP 5: PREVENTION
By now, you are on a fast way towards recovery and keeping this wild monster in complete control. It is impossible to completely eradicate candida from our bodies, and it is unnecessary to even do so.. candida in its yeast form is beneficial as long as it is balanced. This protocol will balance your gut for optimal health. However, keeping that balance is entirely up to you. The best ways to prevent candida is to watch your diet, have a healthy lifestyle, avoid antibiotics as much as possible, and keep your probiotics and your immune system boosted. I wish you all the best of luck and healthy living! Thank you.
*Note: As with any dietary supplement, consult your healthcare professional before use.
Disclaimer: Statements made have not been evaluated by the United States Food and Drug Administration and are not approved to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.