Your Yeast Infection Culprit: Candida

I want to point out some facts as well as some common misconceptions about the major culprit of yeast infections: Candida.

First, yeast infections suck and, although we all can pretty much expect to get one at some point, there are easy methods to prevent and/or cure them.

Second, yeast infections are caused by Candida, a genus of yeasts that is normally harmless to the body, but when it winds up the wrong location and if your body is particularly weak from some other ailment, it can develop into Candida Albicans which creates the yeast infection.

Yeast infections are bad enough and are quite the annoyance, however, it was once believed that Candida could actually cause WORSE problems for those affected by it. Commonly cited conditions were memory loss, weight gain, fatigue, and headaches. Luckily, the connection between the two has mainly been debunked and there is not believed to be a substantial connection at this point in time.

Another common misconception and practice involves the process of ridding excess Candida from the body by cutting out or lowering the intake of foods and other items that are believed to increase the amount of yeast in the body. High sugar and fructose foods, birth control pills, and antibiotics all fit these criteria and for a long time, were not recommended for those suffering from recurring yeast infections. However, like the previous thoughts on the additional problems that Candida can cause, these theories have been debunked.

In contrast to the beliefs that a "Candida Cleanse" system or that a "Candida Diet" is for naught are numerous testimonials that these systems do in fact provide relief from yeast infections symptoms as the body fights against the condition. Obviously, if a placebo is making you feel better and is not doing any damage to your body, why not put use to it?

Candida has certain areas of the body where it prefers to hang out, mainly in gastrointestinal, respiratory, and female genital tracts, but can be found in other areas depending on certain conditions that may be introduced to the body. For example, certain substances within the bonding material of dentures has been known to cause the proliferation of Candida. Because of this, many older people who wear dentures have been known to develop oral candidiasis. While this condition doesn't have any major additional complications, it can be more difficult to diagnose as both men and women can be affected by it and because it occurs in a non-traditional section of the body.

Finally, Candida can strike children as well and actually has a rather odd effect on those usually under eight years of age. Excess Candida is believed to turn small children, essentially, into "brats" as it aggressive interactions, excessive cravings for things like yogurt, peanut butter, and macaroni, and can promote ADD. It goes without being said that you should avoid excess Candida buildup in your children.

As stated at the beginning, Candida, although oftentimes harmless, can be a real annoyance in the body in excess or when it occupies to wrong areas. Avoidance is key, and make sure to see your healthcare provider if you think that you are suffering negative effects of Candida.