Diet and Nutritional Supplementation Guidelines for Candida

Dietary Control of Candida

The most important aspect of dietary treatment is to avoid the foods on which yeast thrive. These include simple sugars, dairy products and foods with a high content of yeast or mold.

Food allergies are a common finding in patients with candidiasis and identifying and eliminating allergenic foods will greatly enhance the effectiveness of treatment.

Dietary Guidelines for Candida Treatment

Simple Sugars and Fruit

Eliminating sugar and other simple carbohydrates is an essential aspect of treatment. All sweeteners must be avoided including sugar, honey, maple syrup as well as dried fruit and fruit juice. The one exception is Stevia leaf extract or powder.

Stevia is a herb with a powerful sweetening action due to the presence of steviol glycosides, yet it has negligible calories. Stevia also has beneficial effects including regulating blood sugar levels, improving digestion and reducing mental and physical fatigue.

When fruits are permitted, up to two pieces daily with the exception of very sweet fruits such as grapes and bananas, as well as melons due to their high mold content. In severe cases it may be necessary to restrict fruit entirely for a period of two to three weeks and up to several months.

Other carbohydrates

All refined flours and grains must be avoided as these foods are quickly converted into simple carbohydrates. This includes white flour and all foods containing it, pasta, white rice etc.  In most cases it is best to avoid anything containing wheat, at least initially, due to its highly allergenic potential.

Starchy vegetables such as potato, yam and winter squash are best limited for the same reason as refined carbohydrates, however all other vegetables including onion and garlic should be consumed in abundance.

Most bread is best avoided during Candida treatment due to their high yeast and wheat content. Yeast free breads may be acceptable in small amounts.

In general, complex carbohydrate intake is best kept to limited quantities; however consumption of some whole grains can be beneficial.

Millet is especially recommended for Candida because it has antifungal properties and is high in silica which helps to detoxify the intestines.

Brown rice contains gamma orzyanol, an antifungal compound which also promotes gastrointestinal repair.

Milk and other dairy products

Dairy products are best eliminated due to their high lactose content, allergenic potential and the presence of residual antibiotics. Cheese also has a high mold content.

Natural organic yogurt may be permitted if tolerated as it contains beneficial microorganisms.

Goats milk and goat yogurt can be substituted in most cases and are more easily digestible and less likely to provoke allergies.

Meat and Eggs

Red meat is best restricted to two to three times weekly as it can be difficult to digest. All meat, chicken and eggs must be hormone and antibiotic free.

Fish is highly recommended and can be consumed three to five times weekly as its high omega 3 content enhances immune function and fish oils also have antifungal properties.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are best consumed in small amounts during Candida treatment and may be ground to improve digestibility. Peanuts must be avoided due to their high content of yeast and molds.

Flaxseed meal is especially beneficial as it is very high in omega 3 fatty acids which enhance immunity. Flaxseed meal is also high in fiber which can promote elimination.

Pumpkin seeds are also high in omega 3 fatty acids and have antiparasitic properties.

Legumes

Beans and other legumes are best consumed in limited amounts as some individuals find them difficult to digest. The smaller legumes such as lentils, adzuki and mung beans are more digestible and sprouting can further enhance digestibility.

Oils

Extra virgin olive oil is most suitable as it is antifungal and has other health benefits.

Flaxseed oil can be taken in the amount of one tablespoon daily, mixed into food to increase omega 3 fatty acid intakes.

Completely eliminate margarine and all other sources of trans fatty acids as these are detrimental for health.

Yeast and mold containing foods

In most cases these foods should be avoided, at least in the initial stages as they often provoke symptoms. These foods include dried fruit, cheese, peanuts, melons, mushrooms, soy sauce, leftovers and microwaved food.

Alcohol is produced by fermentation and also disrupts blood sugar levels thus it should be avoided until Candida is under control.

Increasing digestive secretions

Nutritional supplements of hydrochloric acid, pancreatic enzymes and herbs such as peppermint and ginger will dramatically improve digestive capacity in those with a Candida overgrowth. Digestive secretions inhibit Candida growth and prevent Candida from penetrating the mucosal lining.

Food combining, elimination of allergens and avoiding eating late at night will enhance this aspect of treatment.

Copyright © Mizpah Matus 2003

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