Yeast is a type of fungus. A very common form of yeast is a germ called candida albicans. It is often found in the digestive tract and in the vagina of healthy individuals without causing any apparent problem.
Under unfavourable conditions, such as diabetes, or when an individual's immune system is weak or when antibiotics are being used, the organism may invade the membranes of the mouth or vagina or involve the skin, nails and deeper tissues and may even enter the bloodstream.
This kind of infection is referred to as candidiasis by conventional physicians and is treated with antifungal drugs. Often, the problem becomes recurrent despite repeated treatments.
Wider perspective
A wider perspective, common among complementary practitioners was popularised in the book, The Yeast Connection. The author, a Dr Crook, described a condition in which the main features are fatigue, intestinal disturbance, chronic infections, allergies, skin problems, poor concentration, depression, irritability and cravings for sweets or other carbohydrates. This is called the yeast syndrome.
This yeast syndome is thought to be due to an overgrowth of yeast multiplying in the intestines and producing toxins. Because this has not been intensively researched and subjected to peer review, conventional doctors remain skeptical of the existence of this syndrome. On the other hand, there is substantial clinical and anecdotal evidence that it exists and that it appears to be connected to the rampant overuse and abuse of antibiotics.
Many patients who have been diagnosed with the condition get better when they follow the kind of programme outlined below.
TREATING THE YEAST SYNDROME
Diet
The importance of the removal of sugar from the diet cannot be overemphasised. The yeast organism thrives and multiplies in an environment high in sugar. For reasons that are not entirely clear, many patients suffering from this problem have severe sugar and carbohydrate cravings that are of an addictive nature. There is no magic bullet. Failure to change the diet will result in failure to recover from the problem. Merely taking an antifungal drug is not usually enough to cure the problem. If food allergies are present, those foods also need to be avoided during the recovery period.
Healthy carbohydrates
A low carbohydrate, low fat and higher protein (mainly soy protein and fish) programme is ideal. It is best that even seemingly healthy carbohydrates like honey and fruit juices are avoided during the recovery phase. They can be slowly reintroduced in small quantities later. Dairy products and yeast-containing foods should also be avoided. I recommend a programme of vitamin and mineral supplements called the Cellular Nutrition Programme to ensure optimal nutritional support.
Probiotics
There is now significant evidence that taking certain healthy bacteria is beneficial in the prevention and treatment of yeast infections of the intestines and vagina. These bacteria are called probiotics (in contrast to antibiotics) and are particularly useful in treating the yeast syndrome. The most popular of these are the Acidophilus and Lactobacillus bacteria. I use a tablet, which combines the healthy bacteria with soluble and insoluble fibre (Florafiber) as a probiotic therapy.
Herbs
Aloe Vera provides tremendous healing benefits to the intestinal tract. Garlic has a direct yeast-killing effect and should be used liberally in cooking. Goldenseal (as a tea) and oregano (as an oil) are herbs that also have antifungal properties.
Immune support
A weak immune system is a major contributor to the yeast syndrome, and strengthening the immune system is a vital part of the programme. Supplementing with vitamin A, C, E, fish oils, the herbs rosemary and schizandra and the mineral selenium is recommended. Getting adequate rest and learning to manage stress will also fortify a weak immune system.
Detoxication
The rapid break down of the yeast germs releases chemical toxins into the body that have toxic effects on the immune and nervous systems. This may create apparent worsening of the symptoms during treatment. It is, therefore, important to detoxify the body with therapies like colon cleansing, infra-red saunas, hydrogen peroxide baths, exercise and daily sunbaths.
This kind of programme must be followed for at least 12 weeks (and often much longer) to allow the body to recover from this debilitating condition.
You may email Dr Vendryes at vendryes@mac.com, visit him at www.anounceofprevention.org or listen to An Ounce of Prevention on POWER 106FM on Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00pm. His book, 'An Ounce of Prevention', is available from the Vendryes Wellness Centre and from Sangster's Bookstores.