What is Candida? Candida is a yeast that can be found in nearly every one. However, when someone is referring to "Candida" they are probably meaning Candidiasis, which is an over growth of Candida. When I first discovered what Candida was I was rather frightened by what I had learned. An overgrowth of Candida can be the underlying/cause of many health issues. Yet Candida is not often acknowledge or treated in most conventional practices.

Candida works in this way; the yeast is found naturally in a human body. The problem occurs when the yeast is allowed to grow uncontrolled by our bodies natural defenses against it. Within our gastrointestinal tract, our bodies also host a "friendly" bacteria (known as lactobacillus). These good guys prevent the overgrowth of yeast. So when everything is right and we are healthy our body keeps the yeast growth in check naturally.

However, there are many factors that can control this balance and create an ideal environment for the yeast to spread and multiply. Some causes for this overgrowth can be an overuse or prolonged period of antibiotics. The antibiotics kill the good bacteria which keeps the yeast in check, this then allows the yeast to grow. Other common causes are birth control pills, food allergies, stress, anemia, and more.

When Candidiasis becomes a problem some common symptoms are irritability, unable to concentrate, anxiety, depression, bloating, excessive gas, and more. The yeast will actually compete with our bodies and rob it of vital nutrients. It then releases toxic by products, which cause a heavy burden on our immune system. Because of this vicious cycle of stealing nutrients, releasing toxins and overloading our immune systems it's no surprise that the condition of Candidiasis creates other health conditions.

Because Candidiasis is so often over looked by today's medical personal, and taking into account this conditions ability to create other more serious health problems, I think it is appropriately called the silent killer. When a yeast overgrowth takes place in our body it can create such problems as heartburn, IBS, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, depression, diabetes, hypoglycemia, leukemia, and many other diseases.

So what can you do to prevent or stop this silent killer in your life and those you love? To begin with Candida is difficult to kill. It thrives on sugar, so that is the first place to begin. Alter your diet (to the best of your ability). Avoid all sweets, limit all foods containing yeast or mold (such as cheeses, breads, sour cream) Fruits also contain a high sugar content, so limit your consumption of fruit. Avoid alcohol, and do not smoke.

In addition to watching what you eat you can add helpful supplements. The first thing to add to your war plan is the "good guys", the Lactobacillus. These may also be referred to as Probiotics or Flora. Try to find a good, non dairy, supplement. Plenty of garlic is helpful. Garlic contains Allicin which is an antifungal component. Olive leaf extract is excellent. It kills fungi, yeast, viruses, and bacteria (however, it doesn't seem to destroy the friendly bacteria). I also use oil of oregano. There are other supplements that will help in your fight against Candidiasis.

To learn more about Candidiasis and other health conditions and natural alternatives please visit my site http://www.freewebs.com/god_will_make_a_way

Tracy Finney is a published author. She has written a Chritian Fiction Novel titled "God Will Make a Way". To find out more about Tracy and the book please visit her web site. http://www.tracyfinney.com