This is the second article in a four-part series about candida yeast infections.
A strong immune system is the first line of defense against illness and disease. Many believe the medicine we receive from the doctor or drugstore is the key to good health, but that's not true. The healthier people are and the stronger their immune system, the less they'll need those medicines to make them feel better.
In Part I of this series, we discussed the various types of fungal infections and how the fungi actually live on the body. In order to keep the body from getting sick, the immune system works 24 hours a day, seven days a week fighting various germs and infections, including candida.
The weaker the immune system, the greater the risk of having a candida infection. As a result, keeping the immune system strong should be a top priority.
In simple terms, candida infections occur when there is an overabundance of bacteria. We all have the candida in our bodies, and the immune system keeps it under control. If the immune system is compromised, the bacteria grows, thus the infection occurs.
We won't be able to rid our bodies of candida entirely, so it's critical we keep it in check. Here are ways to keep the immune system strong:
- Rest your adrenal glands. The adrenal glands maintain hormone levels and help the body deal with stress efficiently. If they are overworked or fatigued, the immune system can be weakened, resulting in an increased risk of infection. Getting adequate rest, small frequent meals, light exercise and keeping stress levels low can help keep your adrenal glands strong.
- Stop smoking. Smoking increases the risk of many diseases, including bronchitis, lung cancer and pneumonia. Each of these can wreak havoc on the immune system.
- Cut back on alcohol. Excessive alcohol weakens the immune system.
- Relax in a sauna. Saunas help eliminate toxins from the body, which in turn helps the immune system. Saunas open up the pores and allow toxins to be removed from the body.
- Add probiotics to your diet. Yogurt, skim milk and other dairy products are probiotics. These products stimulate the production of good bacteria throughout the body, which in turn fight off the bad bacteria. A 2009 study at the University of Pennsylvania found a healthy balance of bacteria in the stomach will boost the immune system.
- Eat a healthy diet. Fruits, veggies, nuts and seeds all keep the immune system strong. A strong immune system can ward off many diseases, including candida.
Next, we'll look at the various causes of candida infections.
