This is the third article in a four-part series about candida yeast infections.
In Parts I and II of this series on candida yeast, we discussed what it is and how a strong immune system can keep it under control. Since the bacteria that can cause candida infections lives on our bodies, it's also important to know what can trigger an outbreak.
1. Antibiotics
When many of us are sick, we will take an antibiotic to get better. Antibiotics are designed to kill all bacteria, good and bad. As a result, the body's natural defenses are compromised, allowing bad bacteria to grow unchecked, possibly causing another infection.
A person can become resistant to antibiotics due to overuse if they are not careful. As a result, infections can last longer, and a person will need even more antibiotics to be cured, causing a vicious cycle.
2. Diet
Diets that are high in processed foods, candies, white flour, alcohol and soda are high in sugar, and candida feeds on sugar. The immune system is the first line of defense against candida, but a diet high in sugar can weaken the immune system.
The following foods contain yeast and could trigger candida growth as well:
- Bagels
- Beer
- Bread
- Grape juice
- Pretzels
These foods may also contain yeast depending on the recipe:
- Cakes
- Doughnuts
- Soup
- Chocolate
3. Diabetes
Candida yeast thrives when blood sugar levels are elevated. Diabetic women are also prone to yeast infections. Candida has also been shown to be able to create autoimmune conditions such as Type I diabetes.
4. Birth control
Since candida yeast lives in the vagina, infections can occur when an imbalance occurs. The estrogen in contraceptive pills stimulates the production of glycogen, which candida thrives on. Some women have reported an increase in yeast infections after using an IUD.
5. Chlorine and fluoride
Chlorine and fluoride are used to kill the germs and organisms in our drinking water that can cause disease. However, they can also kill the good bacteria in our bodies in the process.
6. Stress
Stress can affect people in many different ways. For some, it could make them more susceptible to candida infections. Stress can weaken the immune system, and if a person is eating foods high in sugar, on antibiotics, has diabetes, or doing other things that could aggravate a pre-existing condition, an outbreak could occur.
There are many possible causes of a candida infection, and it's important to be aware of habits that can increase a person's chances of having one. In addition to keeping the immune system strong as described in Part II of this series, there are treatments available that are designed to help sufferers and end candida yeast problems.
In the final installment, we will discuss the importance of prompt treatment of candida.
