Candida Diet

Symptoms associated with Candida overgrowth include: thrush, bloating, gas, intestinal cramping, rectal itching, altered bowel function, bladder infections, irritability, poor concentration, skin disorders and low energy.


candida.jpgCandida albicans is a common yeast that grows in everyone's digestive system without harm. Sometimes, however, the yeast can overgrow and then create an imbalance in the digestive system, as well as affecting other body organs like the kidney's and bladder.

Common Causes of Candida Overgrowth Include:

  • Medications such as antibiotics, corticosteroids and the oral contraceptive pill.
  • A diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates (white bread, pasta, etc.)
  • High levels of stress.

Symptoms associated with Candida overgrowth include: thrush, bloating, gas, intestinal cramping, rectal itching, altered bowel function, bladder infections, irritability, poor concentration, skin disorders and low energy.

Good Diet Keeps Candida Under Control

A healthy diet and good digestion is essential for the management of Candida. Candida ferments foods that remain in the digestive system, so consuming highly fermentable foods like simple carbohydrates (i.e. sugary foods, breads, cakes, biscuits, etc.), will encourage its growth.

Dietary tips for preventing Candida overgrowth:

  • Avoid simple sugars, including sweets, honey, fruit juice and sugar in processed foods
  • Avoid all refined cereals including white bread, white rice and pasta
  • Limit wholegrain cereals to one to two serves per day
  • Eat lots of fresh vegetables and lean protein foods such as fish, organic chicken, eggs, lamb and tofu
  • Limit alcohol and other fermented foods (pickles, bread, vinegar)

Your naturopath will have additional dietary suggestions and nutritional supplements to help you as well. If you feel that any of the symptoms described above are similar to how you are feeling, then you should find a naturopath who can identify if Candida is the cause of your symptoms. Together you can work on a strategy to eradicate the Candida, reduce the symptoms and get your health back on track.