Do You Have Leaky Gut Syndrome?

There are many effects candida can have on the body, but one of the most serious is leaky gut syndrome.

Candidiasis, or candida, is the overproduction of a yeast-like fungus that grows naturally in the human body.  Normally Candida Albicans live peacefully in the intestinal track, helping us maintain our health by destroying harmful bacteria.  There is also helpful bacteria in our guts that control the growth of the Candida Albicans.  When the good bacteria is somehow reduced or our immune system is weakened, the candida fungi begin to multiply much faster than normal.  The end result is candidiasis, which creates numerous unpleasant symptoms.

Candida causes problems like oral thrush, vaginal yeast infections and other irritating issues, but leaky gut syndrome is one of the most problematic and can lead to major physical  disorders.  Leaky gut syndrome occurs when these yeast-like fungus, usually Candida Albicans, start to mass produce for some reason.

Leaky gut syndrome is aptly named because it describes the situation perfectly.  Your intestines really are allowing  harmful products that normally are eliminated  through urination or bowel movements to leak through your intestinal wall.   These toxins are  flowing  directly into your blood stream.

How does that happen?  It is a result of the overpopulation of the yeast fungi.  When the fungi are  overproduced, they begin to grow long burrowing roots called hyphae.  These roots burrow into the intestinal wall,  creating tiny holes through which the harmful particles pass.  In the most serious cases, the entire body can become infected, resulting in systemic candida.

Unfortunately, this opens the door to a host of systemic inflammatory and immune-related problems, including multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), food allergies, eczema and more.

How can you tell if you might have leaky gut syndrome?  Here are some the symptoms that may present themselves.

• Bloating, cramping and gas that occurs immediately after eating
• Alternating spells of constipation and diarrhea
• Food Allergies
• Swelling of the face when exposed to strong odors
• Irritability
• Foggy thinking
• Headaches

What makes the normally friendly little Candida Albicans turn into a bad guy?  There are a number of possible culprits, including:

• Use of antibiotics which kill healthy bacteria meant to prevent candida overgrowth
• Use of prescription hormones such as birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy and corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone
• Refined carbohydrates found in white bread, candy, cookies, soft drinks and other foods containing them
• Processed foods or food that has been contaminated by molds, parasites and/or fungus
• Increased  caffeine or alcohol consumption

Conventional treatment of the symptoms include the use of antacids, over the counter medications and prescription medications.  Unfortunately, these normally prove to be  ineffective.  The good news is there are alternative, natural methods being used that have proven to be very successful in relieving or eliminating leaky gut syndrome.  There is no super quick cure, but with the right lifestyle changes, diet modifications and the help of natural supplements, many people have finally found relief from leaky gut syndrome.  Consult a naturopathic physician for a proper diagnosis and recommendations that could help you resolve the troubling issues caused by candida and leaky gut syndrome.

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4. Do You Have Irritable Bowel Syndrome or Candida?