Although intestinal candidiasis is not always listed as a clinical diagnosis, more and more studies confirm its relevance in medical practice. Perhaps that is why its relationship with food still raises many doubts. Gema Atienza, nutritionist dietitian, founder of the Advanced Nutrition center, collaborator of Neogenia and member of the Spanish Academy of Dietetics and Nutrition, helps us clear them up.
To achieve this, it is best to start at the beginning. That is, to know what we mean when we talk about intestinal candidiasis.
What is intestinal candidiasis?
Intestinal candidiasis is an infection caused by the excessive growth of yeast of the genus. candid (mainly the Candida albicans) in the gastrointestinal tract. Under normal conditions, this fungus coexists in balance with the rest of the microorganisms that make up the intestinal microbiota.
However, «under certain circumstances, this commensal yeast can proliferate excessively, modifying its morphology from a rounded, non-invasive unicellular shape to an invasive and inflammatory, filamentous shape (hyphae or pseudohyphae), which in some cases can cause inflammatory bowel disease in more susceptible people,» says the expert.
To know if you have intestinal candidiasis, it is very important to go to a digestive system specialist, who can request specific tests and analyzes to find out if you have intestinal candidiasis, ruling out other pathologies.
Most common symptoms of intestinal candidiasis
The most common types of intestinal candidiasis include two types: those that affect the digestive level and those that affect the extradigestive level.
Among the first, the following stand out:
- Bad breath and belching.
- Abdominal distension, gas and bloating.
- Flatulence.
- Recurrent infections such as cystitis.
- Alternation of intestinal transit: diarrhea or constipation.
- Sensation of “slow digestion”, heaviness after eating.
- Intolerance to certain foods.
- Frequent cravings for sweets, pasta, bread and sugars.
Of the extradigestives, the nutritionist refers to the following:
- Headaches or migraines.
- Cognitive difficulties: «Brain fog», memory or concentration problems.
- Mood disturbances or irritability.
- Joint and muscle pain for no apparent reason.
- Poor tolerance to antibiotics.
- Itching or rashes on the skin.
- Anal itching.
Most frequent causes of excessive growth of candid
Apart from nutritional deficiencies that could affect the normal functioning of the immune system to effectively control the overgrowth of commensal fungi (yeasts) in the microbiota, according to our expert, among the factors that promote their proliferation are others such as frequent or prolonged consumption of antibiotics, since these affect the microbiota by reducing the presence of protective bacteria, creating an environment that facilitates and encourages intestinal candidiasis.
But also these others:
- Diets high in fats, sugars and refined flours.
- Chronic stress: weakens the immune system, producing alterations in the intestinal barrier, compromising the state of the microbiota.
- Prolonged use of corticosteroids or other immunosuppressants.
- Excessive consumption of foods rich in refined flours such as sweets, pastries and non-whole grain versions of bread, pasta or rice.
- Alcohol or tobacco consumption: specifically, tobacco reduces saliva production, modifying the oral microbiota, increasing oral candida overgrowths.
- Nutritional deficiencies: a poorly competent immune system may not control commensal fungi well.
Recommended food to combat intestinal candidiasis
Recent scientific studies and research propose following dietary guidelines to fight intestinal candidiasis such as: including foods rich in fiber such as fruits and vegetables, legumes, whole grains, etc.
Gema Atienza also recommends “including fermented milks for their probiotic action that acts synergistically with dietary fiber, in addition to choosing healthy fats such as olive oil or nuts and oilseeds, and choosing healthy protein sources such as legumes, fish, lean meats, eggs.”
Foods to avoid with intestinal candidiasis
If intestinal candidiasis has occurred in your life, you should avoid:
- Free sugars (table sugar, maple and agave syrups, honey and those present in fruit juices)
- Ultra-processed products rich in sugars or saturated fats
- Foods made from refined flours such as pastries, sweets, white bread, etc.).
- alcoholic drinks
- Although some natural remedies such as apple cider vinegar or baking soda for intestinal candidiasis are frequently mentioned, their effectiveness is not scientifically proven.
Complementary treatment and lifestyle.
In addition to all of the previous dietary guidelines, it is advisable to implement certain strategies that will help us mitigate intestinal candidiasis, Gema Atienza: “Use some supplement of prebiotics and probiotics, if the food sources are not consumed and always under health supervision, because it could contribute to creating environments in the intestinal microbiota that prevent and inhibit the overgrowth of Candida albicans (the yeast that causes intestinal candidiasis)” To do this, we must consult with a specialist in probiotics and digestive health.
The expert adds: «In addition, it is advisable to include fermentable fiber (fruits, vegetables, legumes, etc.) to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria. Reducing chronic stress and improving the quality of sleep are advisable. Let’s not forget that stress weakens the immune system and can alter the intestinal microbiota.»
Avoiding unnecessary use of antibiotics is essential, as recent research shows. But if necessary, it is advisable to combine them with probiotics provided by foods such as fermented milk or, where appropriate, and under supervision, in the form of a supplement, in addition to taking care of the diet during and after the treatment. It is also advisable to improve intestinal motility with diet and physical activity: slow transit favors fungal and bacterial overgrowth.
“Finally, it is important to maintain adequate hydration and engage in regular physical activity,” concludes the expert.
Frequently asked questions about intestinal candidiasis
Addressing this health problem raises questions such as the following:
Is intestinal candidiasis completely cured?
«Often, the treatment of intestinal candidiasis will require a multidisciplinary approach that includes changing eating habits, strategies for stress management and the use of probiotics (diet or supplements). If the underlying causes are correctly addressed and a healthy lifestyle is maintained, it is possible to achieve sustained remission and prevent possible recurrences,» says Gema Atienza.
Is it advisable to fast?
There is currently not enough scientific evidence to support fasting as a specific treatment for intestinal candidiasis.
Can you drink coffee or tea?
In general, it is recommended to moderate the intake of coffee and black tea “because they have an irritating effect on the intestinal mucosa and alter digestive motility,” a fact that does not help in the treatment of intestinal candidiasis. Instead, the member of the Spanish Academy of Dietetics and Nutrition recommends opting for other types of infusions such as chamomile, mint, ginger and anise.
How do you know if the diet is working?
We will know that we are on the right track if in our evolution of intestinal candidiasis we notice:
- Reduction of digestive symptoms such as bloating, gas or intestinal discomfort.
- Less desire for foods rich in sugar
- Improved mood in general.
Sample menu for an anti-dietcandid
- Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with arugula and fresh cheese accompanied by whole wheat toast and ginger infusion and prepared.
- Media tomorrow: Yogurt or kefir with ground sesame seeds and pieces of fresh fruit and a handful of nuts
- meal: Green leaf salad (oak, spinach and arugula), avocado and cucumber with EVOO dressing. For the main course, a baked hake fillet with oregano, thyme and roasted eggplant. And for dessert, a fresh seasonal fruit.
- dinner: Cream of zucchini and steamed sardines with dill, thyme and oregano. fresh fruit for dessert
The ALDI Council
If you even suspect an intestinal infection, go to your doctor to order diagnostic tests and prescribe the appropriate treatment. Never self-medicate.
Gema Atienza Toledo. Graduated in Human Nutrition and Dietetics from the Isabel I International University (Burgos). Collaborator in research projects of excellence at the UAM, idiPaz and the Cajal Institute of Neuroscience (CSIC). Co-author of several scientific publications. Master in nutrition, medicine and women’s hormonal health Higher training in nutrition and digestive pathology. Specialized in chrononutrition, microbiota and sports.
