I Think I Have Candida and/or Leaky Gut: What Now?

[healthybratt]

(Also attached is an article I wrote very similar to this post which includes a bit more info on LGS and Candida, what they are and how they work to harm the body.)

In LGS [Leaky Gut Syndrome], the integrity of the intestines has been compromised which allows microbial toxins of the small intestines to flood into the blood stream. This event compromises the liver, the lymphatic system, and the immune response including the endocrine system.

List of symptoms

• abdominal pain
• muscle or joint pain
• accelerated aging
• eye disorders
• chronic fatigue syndrome
• neurological disorders including:  autism, ADHD, depression, OCD, other behavioral disorders, mood swings, confusion, poor concentration, fogginess, poor memory, migraines, anxiety, nervousness, aggressive behavior
  Related Link:  Depression, Anxiety and Other Neurological Disorders
• endocrine disorders including:  urinary tract infections, incontinence, and bedwetting
• digestive disorders including:  food intolerances, obesity, constipation, bloating, gas, malnutrition, and irritable bowel syndrome
• skin disorders (usually a result of food intolerances) such as acne, rosacea, hives, dermatitis (atopic eczema), psoriasis, dandruff and hair loss
• female disorders including PMS, recurring vaginal infections, uterine fibroid, breast fibroid, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and endometriosis
• autoimmune disorders including:  osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, multiple sclerosis, Raynaud's disease (numbness in toes and fingers), lupus, fibromyalgia, diabetes, cancer, pediactric immune deficiencies, HIV positive, Reiter's syndrome, celiac disease, Crohn's disease, endotoxaemia, alopecia areata, vitiligo, Addison's disease, Celiac disease and vasculitis.

NOTE:  There are many more, I've found in my research.  I tried to list as many as I could remember.  If you're not sure if your problem is autoimmune related - try Google.  Type in "autoimmune", "autoimmunity", "leaky gut", or "Candida" in addition to your particular diagnosis and see what you come up with.  You might be surprised at what you find.


Related Links:

Leaky Gut Syndrome - The Cause of it All


Leaky Gut is most often a result of parasites and/or Candida so the first step is to treat the underlying cause.
1.  Change Your Diet

Candida eats sugar; therefore diets need to be altered to exclude all sugars wherever possible.  For help on dietary changes , see the following links

Related Links:

Candida/Yeast:  Symptoms & Cures
Candida Cleanse without Supplements
Treating Children for Candida/Yeast
Treating Candida/Yeast While Pregnant
Foods to Eat While Fighting Candida
Low Carb Recipes [Atkins, Anti-Candida, High Protein, etc.]
The Maker's Diet
Nourishing Traditions
The Yeast Connection Cookbook
Begin/Start a Healthier Diet/Lifestyle
GAPS Method / Diet [Gut and Psychology Syndrome]

2.  Kill the Candida

Take an antifungal.  You can cleanse without supplements, merely by drastically changing your diet, but if the symptoms are severe and your budget allows, I would get a bit more drastic.  There are many anti-Candida formulas on the market some over-the-counter and some that can be prescribed by a physician like Nystatin or Lamisil.  I personally recommend Candida Clear because it's both antifungal and antiparasitic.

NOTE:  Black Walnut is reputed to dry up mother's milk, so if you're pregnant or nursing Yeast Assassin is not recommended.  An alternative treatment such as pure virgin coconut oil and/or pure aloe vera juice is recommended for yeast and figs or raw pumpkin seeds as a natural treatment for parasites.


Beka recommends starting the water cure at this step or even from the very beginning.  The Water Cure is good for decreasing the Die Off symptoms.  It will flush the body of the toxins released as the Candida Albicans die.  This can be started/stopped at any juncture of your healing.  I've not tried this myself, I just drank lots of water for detox and toughed out the rest.

I've found with some experimentation that activated charcoal can also help to lessen the symptoms that come with die-off.

You may also find after you've killed these little boogers, that further cleansing is in order.  Heavy metals, old medication residues, etc, left to sit in the liver and the fat cells can cause the problem to continue or return.  I'd personally recommend Detox+ from the BHS for this.  It's good stuff.

CAUTION:  Natural immune boosters can actually be counterproductive if you're attempting to heal an autoimmune disease with these treatments.  It might be wiser to consider antifungals which will not boost your T2 immune cell counts and make sure you get plenty of cod liver oil (or some other omega 3) to boost your T1 cell count to counteract the problem.  (related link:  Autoimmunity)

Related Links:

Die-Off from Candida/Yeast: Causes, Effects, Risks & Reduction
Natural Antifungals
Parasites and Cleanses
The Water Cure
Yeast Assassin & Tummy Tuneup:  Dosage & Duration


   

3.  Eliminate Food Allergens

Eliminate foods that cause intolerances in the body.  In many cases of Leaky Gut and Candida infestation, food intolerances develop.  Since they occur over a long period of time, the body may react differently than would be expected so these are more difficult to detect.  Food elimination diets are recommended to find food intolerances.  Once determined which foods cause reactions in your body, these foods should be avoided for the duration of treatment.  They can later be reintroduced to determine if the food intolerance has been reversed as a result of healing the leaky gut.

Related Links:

Allergy Rotation Diet
allergies and meal planning
Food allergies, intolerances, must read!
Infant Food Intolerances [Allergies] & Breastfeeding [Nursing]
How to Avoid Food Intolerances/Allergies in Childhood
Allergy Rotation Diet
Recognizing & Avoiding Allergens [Intolerances]
asthma vs allergies
Chronic Sinusitis! Could allergies be the culprit???
Dust & Mold Allergies
Medical Allergy Testing Options: Types, Suggestions, etc...


4.  Recolonize the Gut

Taking antibiotics, drinking unfiltered chlorinated water and having Candida overgrowth severely depletes or kills of all the naturally occurring bacteria in the lining of the intestines.  Recolonize the gut with helpful microbials including bifido and lacto bacterias and nutritional yeasts (not to be confused with Candida).  I take Gr8Dophilus which is probiotic supplement in capsule form.  I highly recommend it, but others are available at your local health food store and GNC carries a good brand of 5 strain probiotics. 

Beka recommends Tummy Tuneup Acidophilus Blast for most yeast infections; however, if Leaky Gut, or other severe symptoms are present, starting with Ultimate Defence for the first 2-4 weeks, and then moving to Acidophilus Blast is a good idea.

Eat naturally cultured foods such as yogurt, kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut, and kimchee.  These foods can be bought commercially, but most contain extra sugars and preservatives.  Sugar feeds Candida, so homemade is always best.

NOTE:  After reading about this topic more thoroughly, I came across some interesting facts.  Acidophilus is not only native to the GI tract, but also to the vagina and bifido bacteria is found primarily in the colon. 

I'm convinced that if you have vaginal yeast symptoms, that getting acidophilus directly into the vagina is a good step in full recovery and I also believe that if digestion is an issue, that enemas containing bifido bacteria may be essential as well.


Related Links:

Yogurt & Kefir:  Recipes, Tips and Tricks
Making Kefir:  Recipes, Tips & Tricks
Kombucha:  Recipes, Tips & Tricks
Kefir, Whey & Sauerkraut
Nourishing Traditions
Yeast Assassin & Tummy Tuneup:  Dosage & Duration
Anyone for Korean  (Kimchee recipes)
About Fermentation


5.  Heal the Gut

The holes left by the vacating Candida may heal on their own, but more often than not, American diets are deficient and need help.  In this case supplementation of Essential Fatty Acids may be necessary either in diet or pill form. 

My research has led me to believe that the average American diet is overloaded with omega 6 fats and most people do not need supplementation in this area; however, this all depends on your diet.  If you've followed step 1 and you've completely eliminated all of the junky food from your family's menu, then you might actually need to supplement your 6's as well. 

If you think you need to supplement 6's and 3's, then Beeyoutiful sells a product called Omega Balance which can fill this need all in one pill.

For supplmentation of omega 3's only, I personally take and recommend Cod Liver Oil for a myriad of reasons.  It's good for the joints, reversal of autoimmunity, a good source of vitamins A and D and it will help repair the muscousal lining in the intestines.

Beka's take on this is as follows: 

I am convinced that the key to benefitting from the Omega oils is having enough of all of them. The problems occur when you have them out of balance. Most people in the USA are not getting enough 3's so taking only the 3's may work for them. HOWEVER - you don't know for sure if they are getting enough of 6, and 9 - and results show that some people benefit hugely from large doses of 6 as well. SO - I also think, and believe evidence suggests, that if a body is getting enough of all the Omegas, then the excess of any of them does not harm, but will just be flushed like the other vits they take. So making sure you get enough of all 3.6.9 is more important that making sure you are getting enough 3's - UNLESS you know for a fact that you are only defficient in 3's. I also believe they "work better" if they are all present in the system for processing at the SAME TIME. JMO.  I would recommend taking Omega Balance as well as/or instead of Cod Liver Oil.

Amendment (added 06/22/2007):  As Beka and I have been reading a book called Win the War Within, we have come to a better understanding of the importance of fatty acids and how they affect our overall health.  I recommend you read this thread for more information on taking Essential Fatty Acids and why.

Inflammation & Diet

Natural sources of omega 6 fats include:Evening Primrose Oil, CottonSeed Oil, Peanut, Grapeseed Oil, Corn Oil, Cereals, Whole Grains, Whole Grain Bread, Corn, Safflower and Sunflower

Natural sources of omega 3 fats include:
Avacodoes, Walnuts, Walnut Oil, Fish Oil, Salmon, Scallops, Halibut, Shrimp, Snapper, Tofu, Squash, Herring, Mackerel, Anchovies, Sardines, Tuna, Chia, Perilla, Purslane, Lingonberry, Hemp, Krill, Krill Oil, Animal Fat (grass fed has higher fat content), Lamb (even commercial lamb is generally grass fed and is reputed to be one of the best meat sources), Dairy (grass fed has higher fat content), MicroAlgae(Crypthecodinium cohnii and Schizochytrium), Brown Algae and Acai(Palm Fruit)

Natural sources of both omega 3s and omega 6s include:
Eggs, Flax Seed and Flax Seed Oil

I also recommend taking an amino acid supplement called L.Glutamine.  It's available in pill form at most places that sell nutritional supplements.  This amino acid is found naturally in good healthy meats.

Aloe vera juice also contains 6 of the 8 essential sugars called glyconutrients and are beneficial for healing the lining of the intestines.

Related Links:

Essential Fatty Acid (EFA) Daily Intake Log: Schedules & Effects
Leaky Gut Syndrome - The Cause of it All
Boosting Your Immune System:  Avoiding Illness
Hydrogenated Fats


NOTE:  the following are not treatments for leaky gut.  they were only included in the list to show any interested in these protocols what they should do first.  detoxing the liver should not be done before parasites are treated and the master cleanse should not be done if the body has candida as the sugar in the master cleanse could only exacerbate the problem.

6.  Detox the Liver

If you've cleansed the Candida and are healing the gut and you're still feeling toxic, your liver may be overloaded.  Candida overgrowth in itself can cause toxicity in the liver, and if you've had a myriad of symptoms and have been treated by a physician, then any meds taken may have also caused additional toxicity in your liver and/or gallbladder. 

At this point, a liver/gallbladder flush may be in order.  Do not do this step without first treating for parasites as mentioned in the first steps.

If you want something less aggressive drinking Kombucha and/or taking a milk thistle supplement would be highly recommended.  Spirulina and chlorella are reputed to be liver detoxifiers as well.  For an easy way to get all three, you could take some SuperMom.  I take the SuperDad as I cannot handle the iron in SuperMom.  SuperDad; however doesn't contain any milk thistle.

Beka has mentioned that Spirulina can exacerbate yeast growth as mercury toxins are flushed.  So - if a person has multiple amalgam fillings, they might consider waiting on the  Supermom until after they conquer the yeast problem.

Related Links:

Liver Flush/Gallbladder Cleanse
Yeast Assassin & Tummy Tuneup:  Dosage & Duration
Mercury/Amalgam Fillings

7.  The Master Cleanse
 
This diet was not designed for Candida cleansing or leaky gut healing; however, it's been found to be beneficial in reversing damage done to many systems in the body and very good to help reset the tastebuds to crave more healthy foods and less unhealthy sugars and preservatives.  You might even lose a few pounds, but be warned, without a healthy diet to follow, the pounds will only return to haunt you.    This diet takes a bit more fortitude than taking a few supplements, but could definitely speed up your recovery time.

This cleanse should be postponed until yeast is under control as the sugar in the diet in the form of maple syrup could actually impede your progress fighting candida.

Related Links:

The Master Cleanse
Breastfeeding and Master Cleanse
AVOID:  Refined sugars and grains, oral contraceptives, ibuprofen and other NSAIDS, excessive alcohol, prescription meds which affect the liver, chlorinated water and ESPECIALLY antibiotics whenever possible.  If these things cannot be avoided, then daily supplementation of probiotics is a MUST.

WATER

There is no other substance in the world like water.  You can never have too much.  There is no toxicity level.  You can drink it all day long.  You can cook with it, clean with it.  IT IS the source of organic life.  Drink lots of it.  It will definitely help you cleanse your kidneys and bowels and will probably help you to lose weight in many different ways.  The toxins for one, but if you're constantly drinking water, your tummy won't have room for sodas, sugary drinks and even less room for food.  The water will also help to speed digestion which speeds up your metabolism which burns more fat.

No matter what, you can't go wrong with water.

For more info on water, health benefits and what kind to drink, visit this Podcast and hear all about this wonderful resource.

Sources:

http://altmedicine.about.com/od/healthconditionsdisease/a/TestLeakyGut.htm
http://www.pureliquidgold.com/leaky_gut_syndrome.htm
http://www.pureliquidgold.com/leaky_gut_syndrome.htm
http://askwaltstollmd.com/lgs.html
http://www.mdheal.org/leakygut.htm
http://www.mdheal.org/leakygut.htm
http://www.liverdoctor.com/04_leakygut_syndrome.asp
http://www.anapsid.org/cnd/diffdx/leakygut1.html
http://www.diagnose-me.com/cond/C22114.html
http://www.ucheepines.org/leaky_gut.htm
http://medherb.com/Therapeutics/Gastrointestinal_-_Leaky_gut.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leaky_gut_syndrome
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leaky_gut_syndrome
http://www.ei-resource.org/articles/lgs-art01.asp
http://www.ei-resource.org/lgs.asp
http://www.lovelyhealth.com/Leaky_Gut_Syndrome.htm#Cause%20of%20Leaky%20Gut%20Syndrome.
http://www.bodyandfitness.com/Information/Health/digestion.htm
http://www.healthdesigns.com/LeakyGut.html
http://www.healthdesigns.com/LeakyGut.html
http://www.shirleys-wellness-cafe.com/eczema.htm#leaky
http://www.dreddyclinic.com/online_recources/articles/disease/candida_2.htm
http://www.modernherbalist.com/dieoff.html
http://chetday.com/candida.html
http://www.imbris.net/~bblinzler/candida.html
http://www.doctorajadams.com/CandidaProtocol.html
http://www.thebody.com/content/art4977.html
http://www.lovelyhealth.com/Candida.htm
http://www.heartlandhealing.com/pages/archive/candida_pt2/index.html
http://www.disabled-world.com/artman/publish/candida_.shtml
http://www.healthe-livingnews.com/articles/what_is_the_truth_about_candida.html

[ForeverGirl]

Healthy Bratt is a genius
A treasure tried and true
If all my systems fail at once
It's because I ignored you
With links galore and facts complete
On what to do and what to eat
I find myself strong but deplete
Of all my favorite foods.

Parasites have long since fled
And Yeast has had a scare
My children now allergen free
There's vinegar in my hair
My hubby lost a ton of weight
Hurray for veggies on the plate
The Water Cure is no debate
"Healthy Bratt was Here."


Thanks HB for a terrific post!

(feel free to add to the poem, all ye HB fans!)

Beka Bee

[Kati*did]

Wow, HB...that's an awesome post!!    Thanks a ton.

Katie

[healthybratt]

 

I'm laughing so hard, I'm in tears. 

Thanks Beka.  I needed a good laugh.

~hb

[cpsenter]

(I posted this on the water cure too since some may just look at this one b/c its yeast related!)     I am so thankful for this site, it has been a huge help to me already!
I am trying to fight candida b/c I think I may have some symptoms but my doctors are sitll tyring to rule out autoimmune diseases so b/c I have the colonostmy next week (to make sure I dont have Chrones disease or something else) I was waiting to start the full blown yeast fighting system.  I have been doing the yeast free diet now for a few days and also the water cure, really just started up yesterday (with the right water and salt) and then I went to a health food store and got some Acidophilus (I know it is probably not as good as what you guys use at Beeyoutiful but is what I could get the fastest).  Well I took some of it last night on a empty stomach before bed (I had been taking it right before eating since Wednesday afternoon) and when I woke up my tummy was hurting a little and then I went down and had a glass of my salt water and took another acidophilus.  About 30 min later my tummy was really hurting but I went ahead and ate something (I had a grapefruit b/c I have heard that is ok sometimes but what do you think? and had some almonds).  Then about 20 min later my tummy really was cramping and I could litereally hear it and feel it rumbling and then about 20 later I had pretty bad diarrhea.  All this to say do you think there is any way its b/c of the acidophilus?  I saw in one of your other postings that sometimes if you have Leaky Gut then acidophilus can make you sick.  Is that more hives and allergy like symptoms or could it be tummy pains and diarrhea too?  If you don't thinks its related to that do you think its b/c I should not have taken it on an empty stomach that long before eating? 
thanks so much for all your help!
I want to do something to help but I am afraid of doing something that will make things worse (like if I by chance have leaky gut then I don't want to make it worse.  I have not really thought I have that thought b/c my tummy issues have not been severe, aren't they usually severe with LGS?).
thanks for any help anyone may have I don't know if it could be from the probiotic or possibly from the salt water.
healthybrat was kind to answer my question to her but suggested that I put it on the post so others could benefit.  so I will post her reply below.
She thought others may have other advice on this!
thanks!

[healthybratt]

Detox is a possibility, but my first thought is that you put too much salt in your water.  Salt water can have a laxative effect.  I've never done the water cure.  Something about it, just doesn't sit right with me, or maybe I'm just too chicken, but if you have questions about this, I would recommend posting them on the Water Cure thread.

If this is a detox symptom (sounds unlikely), then I would slow down on my dosage of probiotics. 

If it were me, I'd stop the salt in the water and continue the acidophulus, but others may have a different answer.

It's also a possibility that you've contracted a virus.  A few others have been worried about something they've done to their bodies using supplements only to find out that they had contracted a virus in tandem with beginning new things.

I hope this helps.

[cpsenter]

bumping my question back up to try and get some advice!   
---------------------
I posted this on the water cure too since some may just look at this one b/c its yeast related!)     I am so thankful for this site, it has been a huge help to me already!
I am trying to fight candida b/c I think I may have some symptoms but my doctors are sitll tyring to rule out autoimmune diseases so b/c I have the colonostmy next week (to make sure I dont have Chrones disease or something else) I was waiting to start the full blown yeast fighting system.  I have been doing the yeast free diet now for a few days and also the water cure, really just started up yesterday (with the right water and salt) and then I went to a health food store and got some Acidophilus (I know it is probably not as good as what you guys use at Beeyoutiful but is what I could get the fastest).  Well I took some of it last night on a empty stomach before bed (I had been taking it right before eating since Wednesday afternoon) and when I woke up my tummy was hurting a little and then I went down and had a glass of my salt water and took another acidophilus.  About 30 min later my tummy was really hurting but I went ahead and ate something (I had a grapefruit b/c I have heard that is ok sometimes but what do you think? and had some almonds).  Then about 20 min later my tummy really was cramping and I could litereally hear it and feel it rumbling and then about 20 later I had pretty bad diarrhea.  All this to say do you think there is any way its b/c of the acidophilus?  I saw in one of your other postings that sometimes if you have Leaky Gut then acidophilus can make you sick.  Is that more hives and allergy like symptoms or could it be tummy pains and diarrhea too?  If you don't thinks its related to that do you think its b/c I should not have taken it on an empty stomach that long before eating? 
thanks so much for all your help!
I want to do something to help but I am afraid of doing something that will make things worse (like if I by chance have leaky gut then I don't want to make it worse.  I have not really thought I have that thought b/c my tummy issues have not been severe, aren't they usually severe with LGS?).
thanks for any help anyone may have I don't know if it could be from the probiotic or possibly from the salt water.
healthybrat was kind to answer my question to her but suggested that I put it on the post so others could benefit.  so I will post her reply below.
She thought others may have other advice on this!
thanks!

[healthybratt]

I just went to the LGS thread and wow... I have a few of the symptoms. My mom has nearly all of them. My aunt has been diagnosed with Lupus and Fibromialgia (sp?) and I'm wondering if she could be cured by cleansing and taking the Yeast Assassin.

Anyway, my question at this point is this: Is it safe to take Yeast Assasin even if you're not sure you have yeast, but you do have some LGS symptoms and would like to get rid of possible parasites because you have cats  Embarrassed ?

I am thinking of ordering some when I order the bee pollen to prepare my body for the Master Cleanse I'm planning to do in Spring or Summer. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. I am still overwhelmed by the ocean of info here! WOW! Shocked

Thanks!

Yeast Assassin has no ingredients in it that should be unhealthy for your body at any time other than if you're nursing or pregnant that I am aware of. 

[PMESguy]

Keep in mind that the top three things that will kill your gut are stress, NSAIDS, and alcohol. So if you want to greatly decrease the chances of having a leaky gut, I would be in your best interest to look at what is causing your gut to leak in the first place. Remember a leaky gut is only a symptom (or a weak link if you will) of a greater problem. Treating the symptom will get you better only to the degree that the acutal etiology is addressed.

I agree with the points outlined in the first post, but candida is supposed to be in your gut. Killing it is not a good idea. If you remove the opportunity for it to grow out of control (through nutrition and lifestlye modification) than it will not. Parasite infections are really stubborn, but they become A LOT more easy to resolve once you recognize the reason why they are there. Part of this is getting out of the medical midset of trying to kill the bad guys...but that is a topic of a whole nother conversation.

The most complete information I know of is Doug Kauffmann's book called The Fungus Link (www.knowthecause.com). He has a pretty impressive track record against the bugs!!

[healthybratt]

Keep in mind that the top three things that will kill your gut are stress, NSAIDS, and alcohol. So if you want to greatly decrease the chances of having a leaky gut, I would be in your best interest to look at what is causing your gut to leak in the first place. Remember a leaky gut is only a symptom (or a weak link if you will) of a greater problem. Treating the symptom will get you better only to the degree that the acutal etiology is addressed.

Thanks for your input.  Most of this information is in another thread.  I created this one for those who wanted something very simple and easy to follow without all the extra stuff to wade through.

Leaky Gut:  The Cause of It All?

[leslieincali]

Please don't type in all caps at me if this has been asked and answered already. After reading on here and beginning The Yeast Connection, I'm certain I have Candida overgrowth. After the holidays, I'm going to start on the beeyoutiful products, phase 1 of the makers diet and I think I'll throw in the water cure and a little coconut oil just for good measure. So, here's my question. My husband inhales double strength cortico steroids everday for his allergies. I don't think he's keen on stopping since they are the 1st thing that ever gave him lasting relief. I've read that husband and wife can pass this stuff back and forth. If I go through all the trouble to get clean and dh(who is a wonderful man, I should add here ) does not make any changes, do y'all think I'm fighting a losing battle. Can I stay on yeast assassin permanently Oh I forgot to say that the cortico steroids were listed in Yeast Connection as a contributor yo yeast overgrowth.

[healthybratt]

I've read that husband and wife can pass this stuff back and forth. If I go through all the trouble to get clean and dh(who is a wonderful man, I should add here ) does not make any changes, do y'all think I'm fighting a losing battle. Can I stay on yeast assassin permanently Oh I forgot to say that the cortico steroids were listed in Yeast Connection as a contributor yo yeast overgrowth.

Yes, it can be passed back and forth, but I don't think it's a losing battle.  I would do what you think you need to in order to get your body healthy, but I would make sure I was taking some combination of probiotics indefinately to keep the yeasties at bay in your body (kefir, yogurt, kombucha, kimchee, sauerkraut, or supplements {Tummy Tuneup}).

[herbalmom]

So, here's my question. My husband inhales double strength cortico steroids everday for his allergies. I don't think he's keen on stopping since they are the 1st thing that ever gave him lasting relief. I've read that husband and wife can pass this stuff back and forth. If I go through all the trouble to get clean and dh(who is a wonderful man, I should add here ) does not make any changes, do y'all think I'm fighting a losing battle.

Check out Doug Kaufmann's Fungus Link books. The web site is: www.knowthecause.com. If you get his t.v. show- Know the Cause check that out too. His whole thing is about the WIDE variety of illness that yeast/fungus causes. Now I'm not making any promises, but a lot of people on steroids can get off of them after treating & getting rid of yeast/fungus. Fungus wreaks havoc on the system which causes you to need the steroids & the steroids help the fungus grow so it becomes an endless cycle. HTH

[healthybratt]

Just to let anyone know who is interested...

I have been following most of the steps listed in my first post since April.  I chose the supplements that worked best with my budget and availability, preferences and time constraints.  I've a had a few setbacks and felt doubtful at times, that I was taking the right course of action.  I had symptoms that were obviously realted to candida/leaky gut and others that seemed unrelated. 

I used to have recurrent vaginal yeast infections, skin infections, phantom itching, and bowel upsets.  I used to have sensitive eyelashes.  They constantly itched or were poking me.  I was unable to wear eye makeup as a result.  I used to get boils on my legs and cysts on my eyelids with some frequency.  My cuticles on my nails used to crack and hurt.  My toenails used to be thick and brittle.  My lips and skin used to chap regularly.  My hair used to fall out in wads.  I used to be low on energy and had trouble with insomnia, depression and Seasonal Affective Disorder.  I had PMS and intermittent (sometimes severe) mood swings and a decreased and unpredicatable libido.  I used to have high blood pressure.  I used to have some sort of food allergy which I never diagnosed specifically and I used to be allergic to newspaper.

I'm happy to report that all of these and some others I probably forgot to mention have all disappeared completely.  I've not had any recurrance for several weeks. 

Along with the treatments listed in this thread, I have also stopped using all products which contain SLS and started using wild yam cream which I believe helped with the itching and the PMS symptoms.

I intend to finish the Yeast Assassin that I have and the Acidophilus Blast until it's gone and then quit.  Then I intend to continue with all of my diet changes.  I'm so thrilled with all of the results and hubby is happy too, because I'm healthier and more balanced and more available without hesitation. 

So, now it's not only a matter of research, but also experience that tells me that if you have any weird health problems that you just can't put your finger on, instead of going to the doc to get a magic pill to cure what ails you, treat for yeast and leaky gut and see what happens.  I think you'll be amazed at the results - I know I AM! 

[ginimom3]

What  do you suggest for a child with leaky gut?  Is off all allergic foods, takes no antibiotics, is on Diflucan to get rid of yeast.   Is only three and I cannot take off all sugar because will never eat. Is GFCF has had Sage allergy test and is on mega probiotics. Is there anything else you can suggest?

[healthybratt]

What  do you suggest for a child with leaky gut?  Is off all allergic foods, takes no antibiotics, is on Diflucan to get rid of yeast.   Is only three and I cannot take off all sugar because will never eat. Is GFCF has had Sage allergy test and is on mega probiotics. Is there anything else you can suggest?

Cod Liver Oil is good for healing all the wet parts.  It will not only promote healing in the gut, but it will help other areas of the body as well.  If he won't eat anything without sugar, then he's probably craving it - which means yeast for sure.  It was mentioned in another thread that a child will not allow himself to starve.  I believe this is true.  I would just continue to serve sugar free foods and he will eat eventually when he is hungry enough.  Lots of meats, cheeses, and green veggies are a great way to take sugar out of the diet.  Most of these are gluten free.  If casein is a problem, then cheese is obviously out, but you might try kefir to heal any allergies to dairy.  Several people have reported that kefir will reverse dairy allergies.  Kombucha is not a food, but a great probiotic drink.  Add this in as well if you are able to find a culture.  Once you have the culture, making the drink is a cinch and my kids love it.  Definately avoid breads & grains, potatoes and fruits for at least a couple of weeks.  Whole grains like oats can be added in gradually but in small amounts.  Check this thread for some other ideas on extending your menu.

Foods to Eat While Cleansing for Yeast

[Blessedw/3]

If this is in the wrong spot I apologize.

I have been reading on autism and the gf/cf diet. My son is developing normally but we have always had major behavior problems. A few days ago I took him to a chiropractor who did a test and said he was allergic to wheat. I quit giving him wheat, sugar, and dairy.  He is a different child! I do not even know this strange obedient, respectful, smiling, laughing child! I am reading the book " unraveling the mysteries of autism" and I am confused. She is against dairy period. I read the food allergies section in Nourishing Traditions which I have been changing our diet to previously and Sally Fallon says that cultured milk is okay as well as soaked grains I think. I am just wondering what has worked for some of you who are on gf/cf diet. Have you tried to do NT too? Also, could this be just food allergy, yeast overgrowth, leaky gut and then once I heal the gut we can go back to drinking raw milk and eating things with wheat or does his behavior change prove that he is on the autism spectrum? Please help, I am terribly confused as too where to go from here.

[healthybratt]

If this is in the wrong spot I apologize.

I have been reading on autism and the gf/cf diet. My son is developing normally but we have always had major behavior problems. A few days ago I took him to a chiropractor who did a test and said he was allergic to wheat. I quit giving him wheat, sugar, and dairy.  He is a different child! I do not even know this strange obedient, respectful, smiling, laughing child! I am reading the book " unraveling the mysteries of autism" and I am confused. She is against dairy period. I read the food allergies section in Nourishing Traditions which I have been changing our diet to previously and Sally Fallon says that cultured milk is okay as well as soaked grains I think. I am just wondering what has worked for some of you who are on gf/cf diet. Have you tried to do NT too? Also, could this be just food allergy, yeast overgrowth, leaky gut and then once I heal the gut we can go back to drinking raw milk and eating things with wheat or does his behavior change prove that he is on the autism spectrum? Please help, I am terribly confused as too where to go from here.

Not all children who are allergic to wheat are necessarily allergic to dairy but in most cases they are because the proteins in both (casein & gluten) are very similar in makeup.

If these allergies are a result of yeast overgrowth and/or leaky gut, then healing the gut could definately help to reverse these food intolerances.  The only way to know for sure is to test it out.  Withhold all possible allergens while treating for candida/leaky gut and and reintroduce them one at a time at long intervals apart and watch for reactions.  If the allergies/reactions persist, discontinue eating this food again and wait 3-6 months and try again. 

Check the first post in this thread for steps to follow for healing leaky gut and fighting candida overgrowth.

[hollyolly123]

I so appreciate HB's post too, and the bit about what do do for cleansing if your pregnant, and wow, I didn't know aloe vera juice had all those glyconutrients! (I definately can't afford the pill kind!)  But also I'm writing to Beka, because I thought your signature was so funny (about your son "reading") that I tried to read it to my husband but I literally couldn't because I was laughing so hard.  My dh was looking at me like I'd lost my mind. 

[Naomismama]

Ok, I need some advice. I have read a lot n this forum and on outside sources about eczema, candida yeast and leaky gut. My husband is suffering badly with the most extreme case of eczema I have ever seen! I am going to try and post pictures if I can figure out how.  Anyway, after researching for an exhausting amount of hours, I am pretty confident his problem is candida yeast. So, here is my plan of action. I would really like some opinions to make sure I am on track.

-order the anti-yeast pack from beeyoutiful
-no sugar, no wheat, no gluten, no dairy, no starchy foods, no vinegar, no fruit (except berries??)
-LOTS of water (following the water cure regimen)

Some questions I have: topically we have a blend of essential oils specifically for excema, we also have some homeopathic creams, when his skin isn't covered the pain is unbearable! Is this ok to keep stuff on it. It seems like his is debilitated if it's dry. We only use homeopathic, natural stuff, we don't do doctors, and we still won't, but this is so beyond me! I have never seen anything so bad before!
So, does this regimen sound good??? How fast will it work??? He is barely able to work but goes b/c we need money to survive so there isn't much choice. But we are hoping for at least some improvement. Thanks for all your help!!!!

[YoopreMama]

Some questions I have: topically we have a blend of essential oils specifically for eczema, we also have some homeopathic creams, when his skin isn't covered the pain is unbearable! Is this OK to keep stuff on it. It seems like his is debilitated if it's dry.

I am so sorry for you and your DH.  I've battled this eczema, too, and I'm seemingly going around a corner w/ it, based on stuff I've read from wonderful girls here at WTM...there are many related threads on this topic.

Have you read the Fungal-Bacteria Thread?  It was a huge light bulb for me...That might address treatment more than cause, but it addresses that some, too. As far as relief, my eczema is similar to your DH's right now (mine, I think, is due to some liver cleansing I'm doing and the toxin overload is coming through my skin)  The Dead Sea Salt baths and dabbing some on throughout the day (1/4 c. to 1 qt. of water) have given SO MUCH RELIEF!  I avoid any creams now, even Black Salve, b/c they seemed to exacerbate the condition.  The air was killing the bacteria/fungus.  Aloe Vera has helped some people.  Massage the skin in the tub w/ a washcloth or sponge helped...is his itchy? A heating pad was nice, even the blow dryer...I would definitely start some liver supporting herbs...sounds like it could be overloaded.  Eating foods rich in antioxidants (berries, teas, chocolate, broccoli) and sulphur (onions and garlic) may help, too.  LOTS of water--keep the bowels really moving so any junk can exit that way instead of the skin...the other stuff you're going to do sounds great!  Keep us posted!

[Naomismama]

Ok, another question, My hubby has a spot under his arm that is cracked and split open. It hurts him so much! We need to get it healed because it's hard for him to work with it splitting open all the time. We have been putting vitamin e on it. It only feels tolerable when he has cream on it. Should he still keep it dry?? I have read conflicting stuff about keeping it dry or lotioned up.  How long have you had the eczema? Yes, his itches really bad!! Are you finally getting over it? Did yours ever oozed? His is doing that now? Thanks so much for your help!

[Pastorswife2B]

well I'm not really an expert on the eczema stuff.. but if your looking for something creamy and healing for fungus I would try goot.  Just an idea

-Heather

[YoopreMama]

OK, another question, My hubby has a spot under his arm that is cracked and split open. It hurts him so much! We need to get it healed because it's hard for him to work with it splitting open all the time. We have been putting vitamin e on it. It only feels tolerable when he has cream on it. Should he still keep it dry?? I have read conflicting stuff about keeping it dry or lotioned up.  How long have you had the eczema? Yes, his itches really bad!! Are you finally getting over it? Did yours ever oozed? His is doing that now? Thanks so much for your help!

I'm so sorry about the cracked open skin.  I have had that, too.  It makes life very uncomfortable.    I agree that it needs to heal and leaving it dry won't aid in that, in my opinion.  I would make sure he's ingesting vitamin C, echinacea and good fats to aid in healing...and I would apply lanolin and keep it covered (like bandaged).  I think the GOOT would have burned my open skin...coconut oil is good, tough.  Lots of healing salves out there--Black salve really helped mine...I bet the Vitamin E is helping, too.   My 1st priority would always be to get those open cracks healed. I would sleep w/ gloves over lubricated (w/o petrolatum) hands (where my cracks were).  I would avoid stuff w/ Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS), too...there's a thread on that, too.  It was in my toothpaste!

I'm 34 and have battled eczema since childhood.  It was the worst ever after I did some cleanses recently...I think b/c my liver is unclogged to work better at ridding my body of junk, and b/c I'm not trapping the stuff in my my salves, oils, creams, etc.  The salt and oxygen are drying/clearing it up.

Mine did ooze...at times it was like little water blisters under the skin that I loved to pop.  Hot water felt marvelous on it...but I knew it was bad.

I do think I am getting over it.  The places that were the worst originally are mostly healed and it's moved and healed in secondary spots, too.  The salt water really took away the itching pretty quickly...dabbing it on.

If I think of anything else that would be helpful, I'll add more later!

[Naomismama]

Thanks for all your help! I did try GOOT on his cracked skin but it made it worse. I made a calendula salve so he is trying that. I ordered him the yeast assasin pack today so I will let you know if it works for him or not. Poor guy...he stopped drinking coffee today in an attempt to help his situation and now he has a severe migraine!! It's just not a good day for him! If you think of it, just pray my poor man gets over all this soon!

[healthyinOhio]

Poor guy...he stopped drinking coffee today in an attempt to help his situation and now he has a severe migraine!! It's just not a good day for him! If you think of it, just pray my poor man gets over all this soon!

Yeah, quiting cold turkey with caffeinated products is the WORST!!  When I gave up coffee, I weaned myself using some coffee and a nut/grain beverage until I was at zero coffee and 100% grain.  Then, when I gave up caffeinated tea(for a time of addiction control) I had a hard time weaning.  The best thing that helped me was my water intake.  Every time I had a "head" pain, I would drink an entire glass of water.  The caffeine withdrawl headache went away in about 15-20min.  Also, I have read and found that chamomile tea is good for caffeine withdrawls.  HTH! 

[jre612]

Ok, I need some advice. I have read a lot n this forum and on outside sources about eczema, candida yeast and leaky gut. My husband is suffering badly with the most extreme case of eczema I have ever seen! I am going to try and post pictures if I can figure out how.  Anyway, after researching for an exhausting amount of hours, I am pretty confident his problem is candida yeast. So, here is my plan of action. I would really like some opinions to make sure I am on track.

-order the anti-yeast pack from beeyoutiful
-no sugar, no wheat, no gluten, no dairy, no starchy foods, no vinegar, no fruit (except berries??)
-LOTS of water (following the water cure regimen)

Some questions I have: topically we have a blend of essential oils specifically for excema, we also have some homeopathic creams, when his skin isn't covered the pain is unbearable! Is this ok to keep stuff on it. It seems like his is debilitated if it's dry. We only use homeopathic, natural stuff, we don't do doctors, and we still won't, but this is so beyond me! I have never seen anything so bad before!
So, does this regimen sound good??? How fast will it work??? He is barely able to work but goes b/c we need money to survive so there isn't much choice. But we are hoping for at least some improvement. Thanks for all your help!!!!

[/color]


That looks really painful!  I had really bad ecxema this winter.  It went from my wrists to my arm pit under my arm. It burned and itched all day and night.  When I put things on it it made it worse.  So, finally I read in a book called nutritional healing that a good cure for ecxema is magnesium.  So, I used the nature rich mineral bath once and my ecxema is gone.  I will send you a sample if you email me your address.  It cost $20 for a 20 oz. bottle but I will send you a sample to see if it works for free.  You can read about it at.
http://jodyriley.naturerich.net/

[brigonia]

Hi,
This is my first post.  I have found all of the candida info very helpful, thanks. 

I do have a question though.  I read this "There is no better probiotic to accomplish this than Essential Formulas Probiotics OMX 12 by Dr. Ohhira, or Natren's Healthy Trinity. (Do not take Healthy Trinity within two hours of taking Psyllium hulls, slippery elm, Oxy-Powder, anti-fungals, garlic, vitamin c and some drugs)." on this sitehttp://www.cancerorfungus.com/antifungal.html. 

Any thoughts or experience with this(taking probiotics and candida killers at separate meals)?  Dh and I are taking probiotics with two meals a day.  I have dh taking his neem oil two hours after dinner now so that it won't hurt the probiotics.  We are planning to start a candida killer in the next week or so. 

Thanks, Briana

[brigonia]

 

[4myhoonie]

Hi,
This is my first post.  I have found all of the candida info very helpful, thanks. 

I do have a question though.  I read this "There is no better probiotic to accomplish this than Essential Formulas Probiotics OMX 12 by Dr. Ohhira, or Natren's Healthy Trinity. (Do not take Healthy Trinity within two hours of taking Psyllium hulls, slippery elm, Oxy-Powder, anti-fungals, garlic, vitamin c and some drugs)." on this sitehttp://www.cancerorfungus.com/antifungal.html. 

Any thoughts or experience with this(taking probiotics and candida killers at separate meals)?  Dh and I are taking probiotics with two meals a day.  I have dh taking his neem oil two hours after dinner now so that it won't hurt the probiotics.  We are planning to start a candida killer in the next week or so. 

Thanks, Briana

maybe the candida killer would kill the probiotics, not sure.  but i do take my probiotics first thing in the am, and right before bed just to be safe.