Understanding Candida Albicans

Several terms are used about when discussing a yeast infection.  These include thrush, Candida, Candida Albicans, and just plain old yeast infection.

We’ll assume the reason you’re reading this article is because you have a yeast infection, so we’ll use the terms interchangeably, but just for a moment we’ll do a quick run through of what the terms mean.

Everyone naturally has Candida, a form of yeast, in their bodies, and one of the most common forms of candida is candida albicans. 

Problems arise when there is an excess amount of candida albicans in our body resulting in a yeast infection. 

Thrush usually refers to yeast infection of the mouth, but it is often used just to mean a yeast infection.

Causes of excess Candida Albicans

The reason you get a yeast infection is because there is an imbalance in your immune system.  The causes of the imbalance can include:

• Antibiotics
• Oral contraceptives
• High sugar diet
• Diabetes
• HIV
• Dentures

Any of these may result in the good microorganisms in your body being diminished.  That creates a situation where the candida albicans can flourish, grow, and cause a yeast infection, such as thrush or a vaginal yeast infection.

Treating excessive Candida Albicans

There are several methods for curing yeast infections, from using natural to over the counter.  Before undertaking any of them, consult your doctor.

1. Natural methods for treating candidas albican include using garlic and yogurt (with acidophilus) and there is an excellent ebook available describing a proven natural cure.

2. Chinese herbs:  Chinese herbs are used to promote the clearing out of toxins and are typically usied along with acupuncture and a diet modification.

3. MSM: which stands for methylsulfonylmethane, an organic sulfur compound is somewhat  controversial and should only be used after talking with your doctor.  How MSM and candida work together is that MSM redresses the ph balance in your body, essentially eliminating the conditions under which yeast can grow.

4. Diet: consider changing diet for candidas elimination.  There are specific Candida diets which restrict foods and beverages such as sugar products, vinegar, alcohol, and grains.  The idea is to reduce the amount of yeast and sugar in the body.

If you do suffer form a yeast infection, the bottom line is that your immune system is out of whack and needs to be adjusted. Consult your doctor before undertaking any treatment.