Share Your Candida Story
If you're suffering from Candida overgrowth, don't worry - you're not alone! We get lots of emails from readers detailing their experiences (good and bad) with Candida. We've created this page to share them with you.
If you'd like to provide a little support to other sufferers, go to Share your experiences, and we'll add your story to this page right away. These are all real stories from our readers and many Candida sufferers find them useful.
Was looking for weight loss and found Candida
"Last year my coworkers and i decided to do our own weight loss challenge. $500.00 was the price for the winner. My journey was one I did not expect. Before the diet I drank practically everyday, I had gained so much weight in one year. This was due to depression from a six year break up. And not to mention that my diet consisted of meat and potatoes. We had 6 mos. to lose the weight, but at the 3 mo. mark I got serious about it. I read a book about raw apple cider vinegar and how good it is for weight loss. The book also mentioned coconut oil and its great benefits. These two products are suppose to be healing. Healing was the key word. That book led to another book that was an anti-Candida diet. I began to follow the instructions. I started to cut out processed foods like sugar, cakes, pasta, etc. The first month was the hardest. I felt so weak, and sick, one morning I woke up shaking and threw up. I was suppose work out, but went back to bed. That was the worse I felt. I also did a 3 day juice fast with all green veggies. Changes were happening. I was healing, but I must admit that I worked out as well. I was starting to lose weight, but It was no longer about that, I wanted to heal my body instead, and in the end, I won the contest. I also noticed my body odor changing for the best, my skin was clearer, and my joints didn't feel achy. I dedicated myself to healing. I spent a lot of alone days, but it led me to learning to be alone and not be so needy. There is definitely a psychological side to it. We must also find out why we eat the foods we eat. Best of luck on your journey. Oh and I noticed coworkers not being supportive and telling me that I should live a balanced life, that I shouldn't deprive myself of sweets and so on. But in my head all I could think of is that my diet made sense to me, I was feeling much better physically and emotionally. Why would I want to let go of that?"
Finally at 48... I know what was wrong with me...
"All my life I had issues... either bone and joint pain [Osgood-Schlaters disease] or infections [urinary, sinus, vaginal, even to a point of PID, respiratory, cellulitis, etc.] and dry itchy skin along with chicken skin [Keritosis Pilaris] and hot showers made me itchy. I thought I was allergic to the water. Sensitive to any smell other than cinnamon or some easy spice. Any harsh smells would make cause mucous membranes to close and difficult to breathe. Antibiotics meant instant vaginal yeast infection... so with the script for the meds, the doc would write one for the monistat. Yogurt and cranberry juice were part of my typical diet. At 42 I ruptured 2 discs in my back, had the surgery, 6 months later diagnosed with "failed surgery". Who fails surgery? Wow, what a mess. Depression, chronic fatigue, restless leg syndrome, insomnia, pain killers, neuroleptic drugs for nerve pain, night sweats, boils, rashes, incontinence, fibromyalgia, carpel tunnel, degenerative disc disease, anxiety, thyroid stopped working out of nowhere, so weight gain as well and deemed totally disabled and the beginning of menopause. Urgh! Drugs to deal with side effects of other drugs. Vicious circle. Then my sister in law told me about Candida diet. That was 5 years ago, I put her off, but my best friend went to be tested by a naturopath and we started talking. I just went on the advice I could find. I am happy to say, and very blessed as well, that I am off all the drugs, the only "pills" that go in my mouth now are supplements!! I feel great, my pains are gone, my energy is up, and my weight is decreasing. I am so thankful to the Lord for this opportunity to share my story of what He has done for me, giving the knowledge of how to be healed."
Fed up and only 30!
"I have been struggling for years with my weight even though I train 4-5 times a week, bloating (looking ready to drop by the end of the day), very painful stomach, persistent "lady" infections, constipation, diarrhea, bad back/knees/wrists etc, mood swings (thought that was just ME!), acid reflux due to hiatus hernia where the symptoms have increased to severe burning, chest/back pain and loving the bad breath - lucky I have a boyfriend who loves me and understands! he he........... to name a few. I've been on countless antacids, which don't work and being sent for invasive test after test, involving tubes - ahhhhh!, I assumed I have a wheat and dairy intolerance (symptoms seemed linked) I cut it out and felt slightly better but dropped 6lb without trying in the first 5 days, so I had a Food Intolerance test done yesterday and it's actually yeast, beef and pork that I am intolerant to, which makes sense. I'm now 10lb down and on a special diet - similar to this Candida diet, taking acidophilus, Caprylic acid capsules and milk thistle. After "Googling", I found this website and I am now going to get tested on Monday and I'm going to follow the diet on here and see how I get on. I'm hoping for some relief and without going on much more, it's nice but not nice to hear that I'm not alone."
Over 50 Symptoms!
"I was stressed to the max due to 3 forest fires close to my house. I had a sudden onset of pain in my colon and severe constipation. I went to a digestive disease specialist who gave me a colonoscopy. He said my colon was perfectly fine and to take laxatives because I must have a lazy colon. Even with laxatives, the pain was severe and not improving. I went to a chiropractor and he notice I had poor balance and gave me Psyllium powder. I found another chiropractor who did B.E.S.T. for six months. He said toxic thoughts were making me sick. I went to another chiropractor and he tested me with reflexology and came up with formaldehyde poisoning. By this time I could not walk a straight line, was constantly dizzy, had cramping and shooting pains as well as numbness in my legs. My knees were so stiff I could barely bend them. Muscle weakness was so severe that I could not walk across the room without so much pain, dangerous falls, chronic constipation, weird vivid dreams, hysterical laughing and crying outbursts, complete lack of sex drive, excessive weight gain and numerous other problems. I developed a drinking problem 10 years ago, smoked cigarettes and over ate sweets and carbohydrates . Last month I found a medical doctor that specializes in natural healing. First off he listened to me for over an hour. Then he ordered extensive blood and urine tests. When we met 2 weeks ago he interpreted the results to me: severe yeast, mold, fungal, cadmium and other unnaturally high levels of toxins! I started chelation therapy and given an outline of the Candida Diet. Needless to say, I am somewhat relieved at finally getting a diagnosis. Now I will start on the long road to recovery. Quitting cigarettes and alcohol a year ago has not really diminished the condition all that much. This is a deep seated long term condition that is going to take time and effort to get under control. As I sat here reading others' stories, I see that Candida has many forms and I am grateful to have found this site. Thank you for sharing."
Candida Diet
Popular Articles
"Have been feeling bloated, lethargic, depressed, no sex drive, thinning hair, dry skin,
exercise like a maniac but haven't lost weight. After seeing Doctor after Doctor after Doctor,
who all told me to increase my antidepressant medication for Post Natal Depression,
I finally found someone who said "Yes, I will try to help".
After lots of blood tests and a saliva test, it was discovered amongst adrenal fatigue,
liver stress and hormone imbalance, my Candida level throughout my body was far too high.
The Candida is causing most of my problems. So I commenced the diet, though there
are conflicting stories on what you can and cannot have!
I have commenced medication plus Naturopathic medication. The first three days were awful.
I wanted to sleep and had dreadful nightmares, I had chronic headaches, I smelt
moldy,
I had brain fog so bad that I got lost driving and I locked myself and 6 month old out of the house.
Day five, I finally feel some of the brain fog is lifting and my bloating has certainly decreased.
My cravings for sugar are incredible, but I am doing my best to resist. Its hard though.
Good to read other's experiences, nice to know you are not the only one trying to kill this dreadful thing."
Felt Like I Was Dying.....
"Well, I've read all the stories and here is what I have to say.... Candida took my life and threw it away, literally! One day I woke up and felt like I was dying. I seriously thought I did not have long to live. I cut everything out of my diet except for chicken, fish, and dark green vegetables. I basically ate just those few things and it changed my life FOREVER. I would have never dreamed after feeling SO horrible all that time, that I could simply change my diet and that it would change and turn everything around. I lost 55 lbs. and never felt better in my entire life. I even breathe better. I don't drink diet colas anymore either. It was hard to break the cravings, but when I looked at it as though I was feeding the bug that was killing me, in no time at all, I became serious and I feel like I am on a natural high all the time, my energy is back better than before actually. I can not remember the last time I felt this good. Be faithful to the diet and make it a life long way of eating and change and you will never be too tired and you will live twice as long. I got my life back and now I have the life I always wanted. I can even stay up later and get up earlier than the teenagers in the home."
I've never felt better!
"I was finally diagnosed with a Candida overgrowth after suffering for 4 1/2 years with symptoms ranging from chronic fatigue, skin rashes, ear infections, bloating, vaginal itching and chronic constipation. After seeing 7 different doctors, I finally stumbled across the right one. I've been on the "diet" for one year now and feel amazing. I'm symptom free and really, have never felt better and I also dropped 53 lbs. I will still have flare ups on occasions after thinking I can try a new food or an old food I used to enjoy but it's not often. It's been a tough time trying to adjust to a new way of eating but it's worth it!"
Yeast Infections / UTIs..? Oh my gosh.
"I have had recurring UTI's and Yeast Infections for a while now. One year I had 12 yeast infections! Recently, I have had 4 in a 6 week period as well as 3 UTIs... Antibiotics leads to YI. Unfortunately - I haven't had them this bad though - I was in so much pain in the store today I just had to sit down. Abdominal pain and womanly pain. My Dr gave me a pap two weeks ago (oh swell - no pun intended!), and he said "yep its yeast". So now I'm on pills every two weeks along with 7 day cream - and I have 5 repeats on that!. I'm thinking of doing the Candida diet. I want this thing gone forever! I hate it. What can I eat? Pretty."
Candida and Food Intolerance
"I have been on an anti-Candida diet for 6 weeks now. I suffer from a skin condition called Keritosis Pilaris (chicken skin) and it is reduced by 75%. This is the first time its been this light in over 6 years! I went to a chiropractor for NAET allergy testing and have tested allergic to several things so I removed them from my diet as well. I've had excessive intestinal bloating for 3 years and chiropractor suggested I have adrenal fatigue. Apparently AF, food intolerances/allergies and Candida often come together. Healing is slow going with all these conditions to treat (mostly with herbal supplements) I still have a lot of bloating, but expect that to lessen as I bring my adrenals back into balance. I highly recommend others look into these conditions as well. Two fantastic books that both make the AF, food intolerance and Candida link are: Adrenal Fatigue-The 21st century stress syndrome, James L. Wilson ND; Allergy Free, Konrad Kail, ND. Good luck to everyone and stay strong!"
Despondency
"Hi! I went to see my naturopath today and he prescribed three supplements and I took them after I arrived home. I see the benefits already, as my head is clear, and I feel alert. The Caprylic acid is one of the ingredients in one supplement. It is amazing the rapidity the supplements are working. I have a gluten intolerance and yeast problem. He mentioned the celiac affects the celli in the small intestine. He said to avoid white flour and breads. I think he said to avoid sugar too. He said white flour turns to sugar. That gave me encouragement and a hope."
Enjoying life again!!!!
"It all started when I took way too many antibiotics for recurring sinus infections after the birth of my daughter in 1995. In 2003 mild migraines and stomach pains were calling my name. Little by little things started getting worse. I noticed I was extremely hypersensitive to perfumes and tons of environmental causes such as car fumes and smoke. My joints began aching in the mornings especially my knees and ankles and I would tire easily. Migraines turned into horrible vomiting attacks that would land me in the hospital at least once a month. I lost all interest in sex and was depressed and wanted to sleep all the time. I was constipated and bloated and gained 10 lbs. In 2006 I completed my Masters and began working at a school and would come home in pain and exhausted. My emotions were running low and I felt like I was angry and moody all the time. So many doctors including a rheumatologist wanted me to take plaquenil but I refused. I was coming to a point of accepting that at age 41 feeling bad all over was due to getting older. I made an appointment with an M.D. who believes in Preventative Medicine and he tested me for Candidiasis. He placed me on a sugar free (including no fruit)/yeast free diet along with supplements and Nystatin 4x daily. I have been committed for about a month now and I am absolutely amazed at the amount of energy and how awesome I feel. I can stay awake during movie now and I have my life with my family again!!!!"
Beating my Candida
"After eight years of very ill health I am on my way up. Little did I know about Candida, but now I understand all about it. I have worked on this, followed the right diet, and my health is getting back to normal. What a blessing to feel well again! Eight years ago I was a hopeless mess crying every day because I did not understand the problem. Believe me, it is well worth all the effort to feel well and normal again."
Not missing sugar
"I have just had my first sugar-free Christmas and I can scarcely believe it! I thought it would be impossible for my craving and love of sweet things - especially chocolate - to go, but it certainly has. And my Candida has gone with it. I had no trouble watching others eat chocolate, mince pies, pudding and Yule log while I indulged in Greek yoghurt. I don't mind one bit because I feel and look so much better. Now I look forward to my first sugar-free Easter!"
Still working on it
Hey all, I have had chronic Candida overgrowth for probably 5 years already. As of yet, any medication that I have tried only worked for a week or so and then my symptoms came back. When I tried natural remedies, and I did it for over a year, they helped me at the moment but as soon as I stopped my symptoms came back. I cannot eat pretty much anything but lettuce and cucumbers and garlic. Those are the three things that will not cause me to be in severe pain. Basically, it’s as if I am allergic to all foods that cause Candida to grow. My symptoms started out with a severe yeast infection and went to cystitis then to severe weight gain.
To date, I am still struggling with chronic Candida overgrowth and after tons of research and trials of herbal medications I have yet to find an actual cure, not just a cover up for the problem. I’m going to try the diet on your website, starting today – wish me luck!
Getting my energy back
"For three years I have been following a strict diet which is both gluten-free and anti-Candida. I would never have imagined that I would be able to turn my back so easily on sugar, yeast, most flour, coffee and tea (except for herbal tea), cow's milk, even fruit. Yet, with the help of special recipes and vitamin supplements I have managed it. It has not been an altogether smooth ride - a year ago we realized that all our indoor house plants had to go and immediately I felt the benefit of that. But little by little I have gained weight and energy and I am still able to maintain a busy Christian ministry in inner city Hackney. I look forward to further progress, even to returning one day to eating fruit.
Amazing it has worked so fast!
"I have suffered from Candida since I was a child. I don't know what triggered it. But I also had eczema and they have bothered me a lot. When I went to the doctor, before he even diagnosed me he simply said Candida means either HIV or Diabetes infection. I was so mad at that doctor for scaring me. I wonder where they got him from. Anyways, I have basically been on all treatments of Candida. I have got Urine Infections, Cystitis. It reached a point where the doctor said they are not sure what's wrong and they need to scan me. They checked my kidneys, bladder, ovaries...all was okay. I have done everything. And no doctor has ever said try the Candida diet. I just searched on internet and found it and tried it. Today is my 3rd day on it. Its pretty harsh but amazingly my discharge has cleared. I don't know if it works this fast. Everybody laughs at me making my separate food... but I think it is worth it. After suffering eczema and all that, I better make the sacrifice. I take a garlic before bed, when I get hungry I take yogurt or make vegetable soup. I have omelet with lots of salad mixed in yoghurt. I drink green tea. In the mornings when I wake I take lemon in hot water. I eat meat, chicken and fish in salad."
It is good to feel good!
"I have three months feeling very weak and with drowsiness. A natural doctor told me that it can be due to Candida overgrowth. Candida? Well, I started reading about it and I realized that stress has reduced my immune system function, allowing Candida to overgrowth and parasites as well. I am doing this special diet and I can see a big difference. Garlic, avocados, celery, fennel, are my new friends. I have relapses every week, but good thing is not every day. It takes time, but its worth the effort."
Do I really have Candida?
"I have been feeling ill and exhausted for months now and previous to that was really stressed. I went on the Candida diet, dropped a lot of weight but feel a bit better in certain ways through being on the diet. I have nearly all the symptoms and it all makes sense to me. My life has been turned upside down because of this and it has caused me to feel depressed and even more worse when I keep going back to the doctors and explaining over and over but they look at me like I'm daft. Some days I do feel quite energetic and I grasp my chance to do things but most days I feel drained and exhausted and just can't concentrate and even if I have good sleep I never feel refreshed. Today I gave in and ate chocolate! I'm sick of not eating my old foods but now I'm scared of what tomorrow might bring! I'm getting these supplements soon shipped from the US, I'm looking forward to trying them, they are called Candida yeast support and very popular!"
One Year Later
"A year ago December 2008 I realized something was wrong. Very wrong. I have been on thyroid medicine for 20 years so I assumed that was the problem. At the doctors office my test results came back that I am allergic to beef, molds, cats and dogs. They also said my thyroid levels tested high so they lowered my dose of Synthroid. Two weeks after giving up beef I feel a little better the bloating and brain fog improved but still having pain through my body and the fatigue was so awful I went back to the doctor she then tells me I have fibromyalgia. Not buying this. I then made an appointment for an endocrinologist he recommended I go off thyroid medication. Six weeks after going off the medication my pain and fatigue improved. I can now sleep through the night which I had not done in 10 years. I am now left with symptoms of Candida which come and go. Some of my symptoms are joint pain, rash, bladder pain, fatigue, and brain fog. My last attack was when I went out and drank too much. Since then I have gone on the Candida diet. I am feeling a little better and am hoping that I can stick to it through the holidays. Good luck everyone this sucks feeling this way!"
Related articles
About Candida |
Testing for Candida |
Candida Symptoms |
Reader Experiences |
Step 1: Detox |
Step 2: Elimination |
Step 3: Repopulation
Allergies and Candida
"I knew I had problems when I was continually getting excess mucus, sinus issues, weekly diarrhea and other embarrassing symptoms which I always tried to hide. My visit to the naturopath last year made me aware I had food allergies and now I am going through the NAET program (Natural Allergy Elimination Treatment). All my allergies had depleted my immune system and it caused hypoglacaemia (sorry about the spelling) earlier on in my life and later on as I read more about it, realized I had developed Candida which was confirmed in my health check up. I am now following the recommended Candida diet and feeling glad (ironically) that I am experiencing Candida die off and the unfortunate symptoms. As I have allergies, I am using food I have been treated for. I found out that I had and still have to be treated for nearly every food allergy under the sun, which I was not aware of, things like vitamin C, nightshade vegetables etc. I recommend anyone to ensure that they have either cleared allergies for recommended Candida diet or avoid use to not cause any ill effect as untreated and overexposure of allergic foods, lead into more health problems and every medical condition known, like Candida. I love the prospect that I am facing a life of food freedom and that my soon to be strengthened immune system will prevent any further illness. If you have Candida, be rest assured that it goes away and it takes a great deal of discipline, but please read the fine print of what may cause an allergic reaction and get them cleared! It forms part of the Candida treatment. Yeah to the courageous who don't want to face this abnormality ever again!"
Just kill me now
"Well. Don't know where to start. 9 years ago I had Mono at 34 years of age. Recovered a month later and felt great for about 3 months. Then, I suddenly found myself exhausted all the time. At first, just in the morning. Then more and more in the morning until rather suddenly a year or so back I became tired all the time. Jock itch every so often for no reason. Bloating. Weight gain. Insane sugar cravings. Tired and brain fog. Headaches. Sore eyes. Couldn't finish a single project. Several doctors no luck. Chronic Fagitue specialist - no luck and a few thousand out of pocket expenses. I'm down to about 3 friends and my family is rather distant - apparently, it's all in my head - I'm depressed and mal-fed. Simple as that. Candida is a rather new discovery to me where I am going to concentrate my efforts rather then Chronic Fatigue Syndrome which I was told I simply had to live with or wait out. It's amazing - 5 doctors and two specialists and no one ever mentioned Candida. What's more amazing is the only organizations that DO mention Candida all have some horrifically expensive solution that they want you to buy from THEM. Not recommending something from somewhere, but simply "a sale". I am using Syntol now (3 Billion good bugs) taking 12 capsules a day along with a diet of chicken, nuts, popcorn and water which is supplemented by an occasional M&M or cranberry light juice w/Splenda which I suppose I will cut out soon. Vitamins, too. Might try garlic pills. I despise vegetables! Not sure I can keep this up for life, let alone a full month but I'll give it a go. I don't think (I know) I'll ever say I don't miss chocolate and having normal diet. Hope Syntol is not a scam as so many products have been in the past - prey on the weak. I'll keep looking for support but there seems so little aside from support in getting me to spend more money."
Candida and Grapefruit Seed Extract
"For the last year I have been suffering intermittently from brain fog, lack of appetite, terrible digestive problems, constipation and general lack of vitality. I went to the Naturopath last week and she diagnosed Candida. I have been avoiding flour, sugar, coffee and eating vegetables and soups for the last four days. I feel so much better. She recommended grape fruit seed extract which I have been taking too. I really think Candida is a genuine condition which effects you terribly. I would advise anyone who expects they have it to get a test and treat it with the right diet. I feel so much better now."
Day 6 (1st Week)
"Well - I'm 30 years old, and have been suffering from the following in the last 6 years: bloating (especially on a Monday), energy levels dropping by 3.30pm in the afternoon, bad breath, always hungry, gym every day with no results, couldn't get to sleep, bad insomnia, and waking up felling tired in the mornings. Also had a problem with bags under my eyes. I met a lady who told me about the Candida diet. I started doing a lot of internet research on it, and decided to try it. I'm now on day 6. For the first 3 days, headaches are really bad. But energy levels in increase from day 1. From day 3 your start getting a runny tummy - I believe this is your body detoxing. I'm on day six, and my tummy is still running, but its different. It feels like my body is naturally flushing out all the toxins. My skin has improved and the bags under my eyes are starting to disappear. Also, I can see my stomach is flattening already. No weight lost yet, only day 6, but I can feel my tummy is reducing in size already. Also, I had a drink (bad bad) with my friends the other night. I had a Vodka and Soda. It made me feel really funny, and queasy. so I really wouldn't recommend it for the first 2 weeks at least everyone."
Feeling Better
"I have been taking most of the products recommended by you and two weeks later, I am feeling an amazing difference in my energy level. Bentonite, very difficult to swallow, Psyllium, works better than anything I've ever tried, also a product called Mastic Gum which came highly recommended. The diet is almost impossible to follow so I broke down a little everyday for the first seven days. Nothing major, tea, coffee, sweetener, crackers, one whiskey, a potato etc. No sugars. My third week and I am ready to be more strict and increase the benefits I am already experiencing. One step at a time but at least I've started in the right direction."
Hanging on...just!
"I have been suffering from Candidiasis for about a year and have experienced some horrendous symptoms, including tremors, liver problems, dizziness, hypoglycemia, brain fog, urine infections, thrush, bloating, headaches, fatigue and general feelings of impending doom, these are to name but a few. Its been a nightmare and my life has been consumed by this wretched disease. I have been back and forth to the doctors who have not helped at all. First blaming my diet and then stress for my symptoms. I knew this was not right. I turned to the internet to do my own research and discovered Candidiasis myself and started the diet. I had a horrendous die off reaction and again thought I was going to die. I have now found a nutritionist who has been brilliant, its so refreshing to be taken seriously for once. With her help I am feeling better, not killing the Candida so quickly but at a rate my body can cope with. Still don't feel great but not on deaths door. I realize this will take a long time to put right and my eating habits will have to change forever. I am also awaiting the results of my test that will also look if i am allergic to anything. I whole heartedly sympathize with anyone who has this condition. It takes over your life and shreds it into a million pieces. But there is now hope and a light at the end of the tunnel. I will beat it.....i will. "
Is this forever??
"A couple months ago I was diagnosed with food allergies/intolerances. I have already a very strict diet that follows the Candida diet almost to a T. My doctor found a parasite (which has been taken care of now), bad bacteria overgrowth (should be gone now), and is now treating me for yeast overgrowth. I'm to take liquid form Nystatin 3 times a day, but it was causing so much stomach pain I wanted to die! My doctor then said to move it to 2 times a day and then work back up to 3 times a day. Well, that kind of helped, but not really! He said it's normal to hurt with Nystatin. To me though I've been taking it for 3 weeks now, shouldn't I be seeing results? I still have another probably 2 or 3 weeks to go. I'm really not sure what to do. This has been going on for probably 4-5 years and last year is when it got way way worse. I've seen 7 doctors now and at least this last one didn't say lets give you more pain killers, antidepressants, tons of different prescriptions for IBS, etc. He actually listened and said lets see why your hurting. I really like him, but I'm also frustrated that I'm not improving. For those of you that have been treating Candida, how long did it take until you really felt free of pain? I read every single story and see that it varies. I just cannot believe that the human body can be in this kind of pain and not die if you know what I mean! Any encouragement????"
Candida and Silicone Implants
"I had breast implants for 15 months and had all the symptoms of Candida especially similar to yours Lindsey. Along with other terrible random symptoms. I have been explanted for 8 weeks and all my symptoms have improved immeasurably. Now my immune system has been compromised I get recurring Candida. Diflucan worked beautifully but 2 weeks later due to my weak immunity - back came the Candida. I'm going to try this diet, add some more Diflucan, and olive leaf and hope I will see the end of this awful health problem. I will post again when I see results. I urge you if you have silicone or saline implants consider the fact that your Candida will not go permanently as a possible link to silicone toxicity disease."
Me vs. Candida
"It has been about 8 years now, that I have been getting changes in my body. I went from 170lbs to 220lbs and thought it was my diet. I kept going to the gym almost every day for five years and there was no weight loss, feeling bloated every night and started to get intolerant to different foods. I've also noticed discoloration in my skin pigment and experienced tiredness, brain fog and numbness. A few weeks ago "Friday night" at about midnight my body started feeling weird and my stomach was huge. "I thought I was going to die", so i started to research online about my symptoms and lead me to CANDIDA. At the moment i am two weeks into the diet and cleanse and already I have lost 10lbs and feeling better. But only wish that the sugar cravings would go away lol....."
Sick since birth!!
"Well, i have been sick with allergies, stomach problems and eczema since childhood. As I've gotten older these symptoms have only gotten worse. I was treated for bad bacteria, therefore i was put on a cocktail of antibiotics etc. to wipe out all bacteria then repopulate... but this was the worst thing i could have done. I have been on every medicine for acid reflux imaginable. No help. Been to 6 different doctors and no diagnosis. I had extreme joint pain, gas, bloating, blurred vision, fatigue, mood swings, inflamed glands, sore throat, water retention, sensitivity to chemicals and perfumes and dyes. Hair loss, severe acne @ the age of 49 completely out of the blue. Itching, burning skin, red burning eyes, also i had brain fog so bad i forgot my son's middle name! Dizziness, slurred speech, blurred vision and an unquenchable longing for alcohol!..u name it! i recently diagnosed myself with Candida and through research have put myself on probiotics and a yeast cleanse. The Candida mutates and becomes immune, so you have to alternate every 2 weeks or so with different probiotics. You also need prebiotics, they feed the new bacteria you introduce into your system. You must follow the diet and for the die off symptoms I strongly recommend activated charcoal. You mix it with water. It is tasteless just a bit messy and gritty. IT REALLY WORKS to take the toxins out of your system with the least amount of "die off" symptoms. I am on the road to recovery and starting to feel good again."
Still a battle
"I probably had Candida all my life. I am 57. I have more then 175 lb weight loss, in two years. Candida is eating me alive. Since august last year I have been on clotrimazole, Nystatin, Diflucan, a terrible diet. Green vegetables, fish or chicken - that's it. if I try anything my mouth become filled with thrush. Burning pain in my stomach, stabbing pain under liver, itching vagina, falling hair. It is not healing no matter what I do. I have erosive esophagus, leaky gut syndrome and other bunch of diseases. The only good thing that came from Candida I am not 320 lb anymore my diabetes is gone, my blood pressure is normal. But the minute I stop antifungal drugs the Candida comes back, diet or not. I don't know what to do anymore. "
Is there hope?
"Ever since I was little I had eczema, headaches and stomach aches. So I just took lots of Advil for the headaches and cortisone creams for the eczema. However as soon as I turned about 15 years old my stomach problems got worse. I was constipated all the time and nothing seemed to work. Quickly in a year my constipation was alternating with diarrhea and my stomach was so bloated. I was in a lot of pain and it was difficult being in school. soon my stomach problems lead to severe panic attacks and shakiness. Doctors just kept saying all you have is IBS but it was not just IBS. I took all different kinds of IBS medicines and supplements but nothing helped. Finally a doctor found a parasitic infection in my intestines so prescribed me heavy heavy dosage of antibiotics and after that my health quickly declined. I started having worse panic attacks and very bad brain fog. I could not even socialize it was so bad. I quickly realized I had allergies to wheat and dairy and when I ate these foods my symptoms got worse. I had no idea what was wrong with me until I stumbled across a Candida website and realized that I must have this condition. I went to a nutritionist who specializes in Candida treatments. He was really good but so expensive and still after a year of treatment and 5000 dollars later I was still sick. I now go to a nutritionist who tested me to see what my intestines and digestion was like. I had absolutely no good bacteria in my stomach and a normal amount of Candida inside of me. I was diagnosed with leaky gut (the gastro doctor laughed at me for telling her I had leaky gut syndrome). So life has been hard especially since i am only 20 years old and now my joints are swollen my heart is racing and the brain fog is still present. I have the Candida kind of under control and I feel better when I eat well but its not always easy to stick to the diet. I just wonder how long will this process take. Its been a year and a half of battling with this Candida. I have faith that I will find an answer one day but if anyone has any suggestions or methods they think are best I would love to hear!"
Skeptical but hopeful
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"I have have struggled with fatigue most of my life or as long as I can remember. Struggled with sinus and chest infections at a young age and had my appendix removed at 9 years of age. About 25 years ago I had an allergy test I it was suggested that I avoid chicken, coffee, cheese and chocolate. No mention of Candida although the doctor mentioned a build up of yeast. 7 years ago my blood platelet count dropped drastically due to some unexplained virus. Fatigue and depression ground me to a halt. If I fast for some time I feel so much better in all aspects. I will try the Candida diet and see what happens. I'm not going to try any supplements until I give the diet a chance."
Chronic hives
"I have had chronic hives for 4 yrs. It came right after having my first child. I started feeling memory loss and fatique. After I had my second child 4 months ago I have been suffering from depression, anxiety. I went to the doctor and they put me on steriods for my hives (didn't work) and Zoloft for my depression (seems to work mildly) I can't seem to shake my fatique. My boyfriend has also had just about the same symtoms but different. I was searching the internet and came across candida yeast infection. We believe we have this. We are going to start the diet and we've also been taking garlic pills and candida cleanse and oregano oil pills. I want to do a colon cleanse too. I seem to be itchier but I read that you can suffer from the die off stage. I hope we figured out what we have. I can't live like this any longer"
23 years old and Sick!
"I am 23 years old and I strongly believe I had Candida. I am estimating I have had Candida since i was 9 years old. I read the causes of Candida, a couple of which included pool chlorine and antibiotics. All of which I have abused since the age of 1. My mom used to call me her little fish because I started swimming since the age of 9 months. At age 7 and on I would swim for hours every day. At the age of 9 I was diagnosed with gastritis and have battling gastrointestinal problems since then. At age 15 I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety. I have had anxiety since age 6. I have tried every single type of depression/anxiety drug from zoloft paxil lexapro pristiq xanax and klonopin. I have seen therapist, psychologists, psychiatrists, neurologists etc. In the past year I have gained 80 pounds because of my intense sugar craving and became pre-diabetic. That caused me to develop high blood pressure and ovarian cysts. I started the Candida diet about 7 days ago. My blood glucose levels were 110 (fasting). Today my blood glucose is at 87 (fasting) and I feel that the anxiety is a little better. I'm sleeping a lot better and am praying that this works. I am documenting my progress and will develop a website with my results after a 6 month period. Good luck to everyone with their battle with Candida!"
Organic Apple Vinegar
"I started taking OAV for extreme gerd. I am on prevacid for it but it doesn't work for me anymore. Instead of taking more, I looked for an alternative. It worked. But, I started getting really sick and flu-like symptoms. I went to a health store and they put me on probiotics. Between the two, I got sicker. Started researching the net and realized I am going through detox. I've been fatigued and foggy-minded for years but thought it was from being on Percocet for 7 years. I'm hoping it doesn't last forever, but it's worth it if it works. The recipe for the OAV is 2 TBS, add 1/4 tsp of baking soda and wait until the fizzing stops. Then add 4-8 oz.s of water and drink. Make sure it's on an empty stomach and eat 30-60 minutes after. I do this 3 times a day and haven't had to take even a Tums in 5 days. Another recipe is squeeze a fresh lemon into a glass and baking soda in 1/4 tsp increments until the fizzing stops. Then add water and drink. I've been doing this for 5 days and have been heartburn-free but having headaches and nausea due to the die-off. The OAV is killing the Candida because it is a fungus basically. Good luck to everyone!"
Candida Is Hereditary
"When I was younger, my mother had what was diagnosed as ulcers and acid problems in her digestive system. In those days, they didn't do a lot for that disease. What they did, didn't work and she was sick for most of her life. Not only that, she had a very bad rash that covered her body. One doctor told her it was a runaway yeast infection but did nothing for it. In December of 2007 I came down with what was diagnosed as Acid Reflux. After going to many doctors who gave me medications for Gerd and sending me on my way ..... UNcured. I was sick and tired of trying to explain to them that this is NOT working. I had to do something so I started by changing my eating lifestyle. This helped so much that I then gave up all processed sugars. I was still eating fruits so even though I felt better, I was still not where I wanted to be. In 2009, my younger sister came down with the same problem and did the same doctor routine that I did, only with different doctors. Finally one doctor told her to listen to her sister (ME) because I seemed to have a handle on it. Can you believe a doctor saying that? This year (2010) my older sisters allergies got so bad that she had to really take a look at her life and eating habits. My youngest sister went to an herbalist and found out she had Candida. We are all now on the anti Candida diet and doing very well. I started a blog on some of the ways I am healing from this disease. http://myjourneywithcandida.blogspot.com/"
Thank God for Yeast!
"I know this may sound crazy, "Thank God for yeast," but as I was reading on this site about yeast and cleansing it out of our systems (which my mother and I are going to start on next week), I realized that it's the same thing as the High Priest cleansing the temple once a year on the Day of Atonement. Our bodies are "the temple of God," and Jesus said "Beware the yeast of the Pharisees." Yeast, body-temple - sins, literal temple. How cool! It's like an object lesson - yeast is bad in our bodies just like sin is bad in our souls! And you can't just do it topically; both cleansings must be done internally. Thank God for this site. I'm not daunted by diseases anymore. Cleanse it all at the foot of the cross - yeast and sin."
Diet change for life change
"I am 28 and have been ill for 10 years with Acid reflux, stomach pains, chronic post nasal drip, oral thrush (and esophageal spotted on an endoscopy a few years ago), and now early stages of psoriasis. I am preparing myself for the Candida diet gradually as my diet has been made up of fast food, takeaways, fried foods, chocolates, sweets, alcohol, microwave meals and convenience foods for a very long time so the adjustment for me is huge but with the help of this site and other resources I am making steps towards a positive lifestyle change and hopefully a successful Candida battle. I have had all my amalgam fillings (mercury) removed by a safe removal dentist and am also commencing chelation to detox mercury from my body which is strongly linked as a cause of immune system breakdown and Candida overgrowth so is a crucial part of the process. I hope to be fit and well by the end of the Candida program, but I also see this as life long positive changes which are long overdue!"
HIV+ with Candida
"Being HIV+ is difficult enough to live with, but having Candidiasis really compounds the problem. I was so sick and tired that I really thought it was it for me. I had all of the classic symptoms; rashes, migraine headaches, diarrhea, severe fatigue, hair loss etc. What I believe brought Candidiasis on in me was my addiction to coffee, of which I was drinking to counter the fatigue effects of HIV. So I went online to read about the adverse effects of coffee abuse and stumbled across an article linking it with Candida overgrowth. I read several other articles that day and was convinced to try the Candida diet. I totally went off coffee, eliminated all sugars, including fruit and ate only beef, chicken, eggs, green veggies, garlic and water. I avoided fish because it contains mercury and contributes to Candida overgrowth. After six months I feel and look like a new man. Amazingly, I feel and look better than I have my entire life, even with HIV. Candidiasis is an opportunistic disease that can creep up on anyone with a lowered immune system. It is slow growing and thus insidious in nature. I really learned an important lesson about proper diet and have decided to stay on the Candida diet for life."
25 and fighting fit!
"I am 25 years old, and have been diagnosed with Candidiasis in my esophagus, one of the most severe types of Candida overgrowth. For the past week, I've had intestinal infections, high fevers, night sweats, fatigue, mood swings. It is even hard to swallow a glass of water, and now I have to face an extreme diet to exterminate this condition. I have already lost a tremendous amount of weight, currently at 140lbs. The doctor prescribed an antifungal (Fluconazole) and a probiotic pill to promote friendly bacteria growth in my intestine. The hardest issue I am facing is staying motivated, keeping myself in a good mood and being positive. In your website I have found a lot of helpful information that will help me in this battle. Thanks! "
A Relief
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"Where do I start? I was diagnosed with Irritable Bowel almost 3 years ago, and didn't know what to do. I had all the tests of intolerances you can imagine, and nothing came back, went to a dietician and still I felt tired, bloated, full of gas, irritable, foggy head, sluggish and all the rest. A friend told me quite a while ago about the Candida diet but I never did anything about it. This year I had to take antibiotics, 3 different courses together over a month and since have felt awful. I have had a recurring yeast infection and my symptoms have been getting progressively worse. I was seriously starting to get worried. I have started as of now, I have already skipped my lunchtime coffee that I so loved. I am really looking forward to feeling like me again, it feels like so long ago!! "
Candida is CRUEL and UNFORGIVING!
"I am a 31 year old woman and now that I am aware of them I have had symptoms of Candida for as long as I can remember. I was diagnosed at 18 years with Irritable bowel syndrome, constantly constipated, bloated, body aches and pains. I seriously have thought I was dying on so many occasions due to the pain and constant fatigue, irritability, mood swings, depression, anxiety, headaches, vaginal thrush, urinary tract infections and kidney infections and kidney cysts to name but a few. Not to mention my TERRIBLE periods for which I have been hospitalized a couple of times in my early/mid twenties from passing out from pain and blood loss. I had key hole surgery when I was about 25 to find that I also had poly cystic ovarian syndrome, in the last 5 or so years I have really struggled losing weight even with a strict regime of exercise. I have also tried to be healthy mostly but still crave white refined things such as croissants and Turkish bread and of course chips and chocolate. I feel I have truly tried everything from dietitians, every modality of massage therapy and natural therapies including liver cleansing diets, different eating plans, cleansing, colonic irrigation etc etc. Counseling, naturopaths - you name it I have done it. I have had temporary relief but I just tend to return back to my cravings which lead to aches and pains, infections etc, which makes me feel like its not worth it. It's just a nasty merry go round that I just want to get off because its making me sick! I have just had an overhaul with my GP (X Rays, ultra sounds and intensive blood tests) to find out what is going on and to rule out other serious conditions like cancer etc. My results show that everything seems normal except that I have insulin problems and my white blood cell count is extremely low (due to infection). My doctor has said that I need to lose 10kg or otherwise I have a high risk of developing heart disease and more problems with my ovaries (infertility or even tumors), which is scary for me cause my family history all include diabetes, ovarian cancer and heart conditions. I have had doctors over the years tell me 'its all in my head' and that I was making my conditions up. I have seriously thought I am going crazy at times and my mental health has suffered immensely. I am now seeing a naturopath and am on the anti Candida eating plan along with supplements they have prescribed for me. So far I have been on it 9 days - my bloating has decreased, my body has been feeling a lot better, I have lost 3 kilos, I feel less tired and more clear in my thinking and I generally feel better. However I do have a weird cold/flu thing going on, maybe it is part of the detox? My body was feeling terrible yesterday and my throat was so so sore and I have been coughing up this orange colored goop! I am hoping this passes soon and is just part of my body trying to rid the disgusting Candida virus. I am hoping that I can stick to the lifestyle change and not fall back into feeding this awful condition called CANDIDA, I want it out of my life forever so that I can get on with mine. Peace and strength to all of you fighting the same problem!"
Frustrated
"I have been on the Candida diet for about 4 weeks now. I started it because I had bad IBS and was fed up with it. I did the two week strict diet but because I had such bad symptoms from it, I couldn't start the anti fungal treatment until the end of week 3. Apart from having the side effects of the die-off I haven't noticed anything to say I think its working. I'm getting trapped wind everyday nearly all day, but I used to get a lot with my IBS anyway. I'm also getting dizzy and headaches. I'm sure that its all from the die-off - its just hard to believe it's working when I haven't seen any results that are that positive? I've read on here that some people have to stay on it for years till it works or if they come off it, it gets bad again. I was really hoping it would go away sooner than that!"
Hope all this hard work pays off!
"I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis at the age of 16. I was recommended to a Naturopath who started my healing process by cutting out gluten, refined sugars and dairy. I was symptom-free within a week. I am now 21 and have not experienced another Colitis flare-up but have been suffering from constant yeast infection symptoms. My hunch is this could have been linked to the anti-inflammatory meds I was prescribed during my bad flare-up with colitis, or also due to me being on birth control for over a year. I tried to rid myself of these symptoms with the over-the-counter treatments but eventually just gave up. My first year of University, as could probably be presumed, involved a lot of drinking and eating many sugary bad foods that I never normally consumed. After my second year of University my yeast infection symptoms are worse and are now accompanied by many of the symptoms mentioned on this site, such as a skin rash on my face and body that resemble eczema, extreme sugar cravings, weight gain, lack of energy, inability to concentrate, head fogginess and more. I am currently studying nutrition in school and stumbled across an article describing the condition of individuals with recurring yeast infections and how it could be linked to Candida. With the guidance of my Naturopath and this website I am starting the Candida diet and hope everything works out for the best. P.S. Cashew butter is amazing and I recommend it to everyone attempting this diet! Good Luck"
Candida and Eczema
"I've always had less than perfect health, with many symptoms that I thought I had to just accept as part of living. I am 30 years old and I have had continuously for many years: post-nasal drip, scalp and thigh folliculitis, acne, dark circles under the eyes, dandruff, dry flaky skin, I have always been underweight and cannot gain weight, intolerant to the cold, flatulence, lethargy, prone to depression and erratic moods. I suspected gluten intolerance a few years ago, so I put myself onto the Paleo diet for a few months (no grains, sugar or alcohol). My health improved - it was the best it had ever been and many of my symptoms vanished - but not all of them. I eased up on the eating program and wheat, sugar and alcohol found its way back into my diet. Last year I was ill with several throat infections all within a few months of each other, and was subsequently put onto antibiotics each time. After the fourth dose of antibiotics, I was bitten by a mosquito and a rash appeared on my shoulder, gradually spreading to the rest of my body within a few months. Four months of GPs and specialists later I was given the diagnosis of eczema. After the prescription creams stopped working I turned to alternative medicine, with ayurveda, kinesiology and a psychic suggesting liver and digestive issues. Finally a NAET kinesiologist suggested Candida, and then I came across this amazing website. I have been on the Candida diet for nearly three weeks, following it as best as I can. I have had two colonics with one more (hopefully the last for now) tomorrow. I am eating lots of green food, I take fish oil capsules, garlic tablets sporadically, 15mLs of chlorophyll each morning, and teaspoon of Polybac 8 each night before bed, as well as two table spoons of apple cider vinegar twice a day. I just bought Swisse Liver Detox tablets and will start on those tomorrow. I attempted Hulda's liver flush a few weeks back, but I thought I was going to die after drinking that awful Epsom salts mixture, although I may try it again in a few weeks following the apple juice version this time. I bought a home testing kit for Candida but it came up negative - perhaps a false negative? I have too many Candida symptoms to rule it out. The eczema has now subsided somewhat (it's not as itchy and red) and I think I am getting some 'die-off' symptoms, although depression is the most difficult to manage. I am having a bit of a struggle maintaining the Candida program. My social life is non-existent at the moment - it's easier to stay at home rather than eat out. My friends and family have not been as supportive as I hoped - but I am keeping my chin up, always hoping that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I might try a raw food diet for a week, or even cut out the quinoa, brown rice and buckwheat and go completely grain-free and see how that goes. I guess it's all about trying different things to see what works best for you. I'm looking forward to having a piece of fruit or chocolate again one day. Reading the other stories on this page gives me hope and it is a great comfort to know that I am not going through the Candida journey alone."
The Coconut Oil Miracle
"Hi guys, I'm familiar with all your stories. I too have been searching for over 10 years trying to find the cause of several minor ailments, some of which have become not so minor. Yep. It's Candida. I've learnt so much about natural therapies and holistic medicine along the way. I am not a allopathic doctor (I've lost faith in that branch of medicine except with respect to emergency response) and I urgently suggest, especially to those who are on prescribed medicines for Candida, to give Coconut Oil a go. Organic cold pressed coconut oil of course. If you wish to know more on the miraculous effects of coconut oil please purchase the books "The coconut oil miracle" written by Bruce Fyfe. Another fantastic book is "Coconut Cures" again by Bruce Fyfe. It just might change your life. All the best. Kind Regards, Sarah"
I Got Rid of Thrush In My Breast with the Candida Diet!!
"I was given antibiotics at the hospital when I went to give birth to my baby. Unfortunately, this resulted in a yeast infection in my breast. At first it started out with a pinching sensation on the side of my breast. Then the nipples started to hurt very badly when the baby would nurse. The sensation would last throughout the entire session and would get worse after the baby would stop. It felt like hot needles poking me. And the nipple felt like a bad burn blister, and when the baby would latch on, it was like rubbing sand paper on the blister over and over again! It was excruciating! I wanted to give up breastfeeding so badly! My husband would often find me sobbing due to the pain. I did 2 weeks of Diflucan and it did not help me. I tried natural remedies and they did not help either. I was afraid of topical ointments because I did not want the baby to get the medication when nursing. I was desperate as I did not want to give my baby formula. After almost 4 months of this, I researched online and bumped into this wonderful Candida Diet. It was the very best thing I could have done!!! It's hard, there's no denying that - everything on the do-not-eat list is what I live on! But this diet completely killed off the yeast infection and I am finally enjoying nursing my baby!! I did the diet for almost 3 weeks and it is 100% gone! I cannot sing this diet's praises enough!! I LOVE IT!!! And losing a few of my pregnancy pounds was a nice side effect, too! I was losing a pound a day for the first week! But, most importantly, I no longer suffer that horrific, excruciating pain anymore!"
Candida and only 18???
"I have been suffering from many symptoms related to Candida as I have been suffering from acne for about 3 years which seems to flare up when I eat sugary foods (especially chocolate), I've also been suffering from very irregular periods - some not coming for over 5 months, I've been experiencing weight gain and have tried everything to loose weight - losing no more than a few pounds then piling it all back on again in a blink of an eye, as well as suffering from bloating, digestive discomfort and constipation. I also have a constant white coating on my tongue. I've been to the doctors and have been tested for PCOS but do not have this condition, I've also had my hormones checked but they are apparently in balance. I have been diagnosed with Gilbert's Syndrome but that has no effect on any of my symptoms so I'm really hoping this is the answer I'm looking for. I have been living on a very high sugar diet for a large portion of my child hood and earlier teen years and have only really started eating healthily over the last 2 years due to concern over my weight, so the high sugar diet is probably the cause of my condition. I plan to do start the Candida diet as of today and hopefully I will be able to sort the condition out through this diet. I've been feeling like there's something wrong with me for a while but my family thinks I'm just being paranoid and that I'm fine, but I know my own body better than anyone else and I know acne and irregular periods aren't something that should be ignored and overlooked, especially when hormone imbalance isn't the cause. I have my prom in about 4 weeks and am going away to Australia for a month a week after so it may be difficult to keep up the diet while I'm away, but I'm determined to sort out this condition and it seems like the first 3 weeks are the hardest, so wish me luck and I'll get back to you at the end of the diet!! :)"
Not-so-Holy Crap
"My story begins about two years ago, when I was placed on an antibiotic after being sick for two weeks with a peritonsillar abscess (aka. golf ball in the throat, aka. serious mastication obstacle). Two days after I began the meds I noticed blood in my stool. I thought the damage would heal as soon as I was off the meds, but it didn't. I soon began looking for a reason, seeing doctors and getting every kind of 'oscopy' the docs could think of. I am quite certain my bum and throat have seen more technology than our teenage texting fanatics! In the end they found nothing, and prescribed everything in the book (does anyone know why a doc thinks it is a good idea to medicate without knowing why? Me either!) My skin is broke out all over, my lymph nodes are always swollen, I poop like a toilet fiend every time I consume sugar and I am always dizzy and confused (to which I will rightfully... or not-so-rightfully blame for my lack of smooth linguistics with the ladies;{) I have been on the Candida diet for about two weeks now and have seen some positive changes, and I am hopeful to see more in the coming weeks. My struggle has taught me a lot about myself, taught me to use humor in life as much as possible, and to enjoy every minute I can. But still, this is no summer romance, I want this problem gone! I want to get involved in college clubs, to get ahead in my future career, fly fish the old streams that are like my close companions, and to gain back the 35 pounds of muscle I have lost. At 21 years of age, there are many goals I have set for myself, so it is time to take back my body. I know my fecal matter will never smell like red roses, but I will be happy as long as they don't share the same coloration. Good luck to all those who struggle with this and other health problems. Keep the faith, keep the hope, keep the strength. Tony"
This is it!
"I wonder why I've seen a thousand and one Doctors and none of them talked about Candida. For five years I was hopeless. Thanks to this website for revealing my killer.. I will start working on it TODAY."
Yeast infections / low energy
"I'm not sure if I am suffering from a Candida overgrowth, but I am ready to give this diet a try. I have been plagued by chronic yeast infections for several years. The yeast infection treatments only seem to mask the problem for a little while. Also, my stomach is itchy just to the left of my belly button. I feel it is probably related. It is an itch I cannot scratch topically, but feels like it is inside me. I am starting the diet today. This will be difficult because I am a candy fanatic. But I have decided enough is enough. I was hoping to try just the diet, without the detox. I am hoping to cure my recurrent yeast infections and low energy. I thought about doing the diet for years. I am ready to try it now."
Eliminating the Problem at the Root
"I am having the exact same problems that all of you have mentioned. I am an 21 year old male, who has been on antibiotics for acne for years. Within the past year I have felt very lethargic, tired, moody, brain fog, and just a sense of not "being me". I began to realize I had a major problem when my sex drive just died, and I had problems achieving erections (which I never have experienced before). After seeing many doctors, an endocrinologist and two urologists... they all said I was "fine" and everything was in my "head". A month ago I had terrible headaches and felt as if I was intoxicated. It was a living nightmare that I could not find relief for. I decided to check alternative methods of healthcare (a naturopath). Instantly I was diagnosed with Candida, and have been on my way to recover since. The reason for my massive headaches were because of "ethanol" in my bloodstream... which could have caused serious permanent damage if left untreated. Within a month of the diet, and taking anti-fungal supplements and probiotics, I am starting to feel more lively and like myself again. My erection problem still occurs, but it is starting to get better. I know how Candida is, and I wish everyone the best of luck in their recovery."
Tired, teary and frustrated
"How refreshing to read that there are people out there suffering similar symptoms to myself. Suffered from chronic yeast infections and was diagnosed with wheat, lactose and fruit intolerances 2 years ago. I have been on liver cleanses and so many naturopathic supplements that I'm sick of it all. I know that if I fall off the rails, Candida takes off and I feel lethargic and disgusting. I take Inner Health aloe juice, digestive enzymes, slippery elm bark and a concoction of other herbs. I struggle with weight gain and am currently trying a food combing diet, helpful but hard to gain weight. I remain optimistic that will knock this infection on the head."
Thrush on tongue at 20 years old!
"I had my first UTI when I was 12 years old, followed by a series of yeast infections from the age 13-22. When I was 20 years old I woke up one morning with a white coating on my tongue. I called my mom from college in a panic. It was diagnosed as "thrush of the tongue". It wasn't until I was 22 that my ENT doctor made the connection of Candida to my symptoms. Within that two year span I had thrush twice on my tongue, rapid weight gain (I could eat a whole box of pasta by myself with two cans of pop and bread and not even notice!!!) multiple UTIs and yeast infections along with 4 cases of strep in a 3 month period. I went from 135lbs to 160lb in about a years time. Finally I was put on the Candida Diet and felt SO much better! I lost the weight and I haven't had any sort of infection in almost 2 years."
I am going to give it a try
"I have been trying to find out what is wrong with me, and this seems like a strong possibilty. I am going to go the coconut juice route first, and hopefully that will help, as will cutting out sugars. Wish me luck!"
Aaarrrgghhh!!!
"I've had the same problems all of you have had for years.... aching joints and muscles, insomnia, unexplained weight gains even though I actually eat pretty healthy... basically feeling like hell for no apparent reason, as all doctors tell me there is nothing WRONG with me. Well, I've been on this diet about a week now. The headaches SUCK. Can't get rid of them, and I fell off the wagon last night and drank a bottle of wine. (Yes, the whole bottle. C'mon, there isn't that much wine in one bottle.) I could kick myself this morning; but it happens. I'll get back to it today. I have to admit I feel amazingly better and have already lost four pounds, and while I weigh more than I want to weigh, I'm not obese. (female, 5'5", 145lbs at start of diet.) I'm not sure how realistic it is for me to try and eat like this for a month, but I'll do my best to stick to it until.... well, who knows when. Best of luck to everyone here."
20 yrs old & no energy
"I have always eaten relatively healthily, yet I can't remember a time when I didn't get sick a lot, bloating, irregular bowel movements, bad spots, dark circles under my eyes, random pains in my muscles, terrible PMS, and signs of deficiencies like white flecks on my nails and small red spots on my arms and thighs. I got bad fatigue and struggled working even 4 days a week. I felt like I needed a nap all the time. I discovered a few years ago that cutting out dairy significantly helped my symptoms, I got less colds and less stomach pains in particular. I think my immune system was constantly under stress making it weaker and more prone to other problems. However I have still had a lot of problems and tended to slip up a lot with dairy, making an excuse on special occasions but always becoming very bloated, stomach pains, producing loads of mucus, and breaking out in spots. Although I ate a lot of organic fruit, vegetables, grains etc, I still consumed a lot of sugar and yeast in hidden forms (several cups of tea with honey a day, lots of fruit juice or squash, sweetened soya yoghurts, biscuits, lots of jam on toast, alcohol especially at weekends). I have always thought my tongue looked very white, however recently I noticed it looked patchy and on examination noticed white, slightly raised lesions and very red patches and it was painful to brush my tongue very hard. I immediately looked up what it meant and all the websites said thrush/Candida - looking at the other symptoms made me think I probably have it throughout my body. It could be genetic because my mother has mentioned that she thinks she has Candida and has had similar problems but I didn't seriously consider it for myself. I do think that my Candida is linked to my poor immune system/generally weak constitution, but that my immune system may be weak predominately because of food intolerances. I have never had mercury fillings, vaccinations, antibiotics or any other medication which could have weakened my immune system. I plan to get a proper food intolerance test done (a blood test which costs about $150). It's a lot but would be worth it for my health. I've started the Candida cleanse/diet and am finding it quite hard. I fasted the first day to give my body a break and am now on lots of liquids and veggies. I am a bit grossed out by colonic irrigation which is sort of irrational but I'm going to try lots of liquids, flax seed, Aloe Vera, colon cleanse tablets etc. I am used to a healthy diet but get terrible sugar cravings. At the moment I'm quite motivated though and have to give it a proper go, I know from experience that it you do it half-heartedly it doesn't work! I'm not overweight and never have been, fairly skinny, (just looked like I'm pregnant from being so bloated!) so I'm finding it hard to get enough calories on mainly veggies and water - hopefully lots of eggs will help? I spent over $70 on oil of oregano, Echinacea tincture, Goldenseal, Dual Action Acidophilus & Bifidus, Aloe Vera Tablets Colon Cleanse, Solaray Capryl (Caprylic Acid), and Pau d'Arco Herb tea so here's hoping something works!!!"
I Didn't Jump Off a Cliff
"Very lucky the kids who figure this thing out as early as 18, I am jealous of you all. Love Dawn's story, I too felt like I was dying, as a matter of fact, I had become so hopeless I WANTED to die, enough said, typing out the details will just depress me, so much time stolen by this deadly sweet tooth Candida, I may as well have a sense of humor and call it a 'effing' sweet tooth, you wanna hate doctors with a passion but what for? ---- Your blood test is normal, normal, normal!! ---- but why do I feel like C^*P!! Godspeed you all."
Candida robbed me of 30 years of my life
"Suffering with Candida for 30 years sounds crazy I know, but due to inept doctors, & a lack of funds I was unable to get to the bottom of my problems till now. I couldn't be more grateful for the internet, & a wonderful naturopath friend who charges nothing to help me. It's been a catch 22 really as I needed more money to help myself but didn't have the energy or health to earn it. As you can imagine I have had every symptom possible with Candida, & basically just felt like what was the point of anything, as I wasn't living, only existing, through having symptoms like really bad PMT & pain at that time of the month, to terrible mood swings, depression, wanting to sleep all the time, weight gain, & so so many more. Asthma, excessive mucus, bloating, wind, water work problems, lack of interest in sex (which is just not normal for me at all), psoriasis, bad breath, (which alone has hindered my social & love life, not to mention work life) I've been on my own now this time around for 8 years & have had other stints on my own for 7 & 10 years due to this, I've been a hermit for as long as I can remember, & lost friends because of it. I normally have a very bubbly personality, but not since I've had this. It has basically robbed me of my life & personality. I was told I had Irritable Bowel Syndrome, leaky gut, there was nothing wrong. I've had a colonoscopy, a tube down my throat, a very dangerous op for widening my nose cavities as I couldn't breath properly, every thing but Candida. I would like to know why doctors are so inept at diagnosing this condition, why they seem to know so little about it, & it's naturopaths who are picking it up. Obviously it's naturopaths that we need to see for our health & not doctors. I've been advised to be on a yeast & starch (as all starch breaks down into sugar, some of these foods include tomatoes & stalk veggies, & many others you might not suspect, I would recommend checking the list online) & sugar free diet for the first month to starve the Candida, taking into account all the foods I'm intolerant to (which are all except for fish, chicken, lean beef, silver beet, green beans only, & broccoli, & salad greens,) then to use coconut oil along with probiotics to kill it off & fasting for the odd meal in the 5th week, the whole process takes approx 3 months, then normal foods can be introduced back into the diet in moderation, my friend has had amazing results with people, he did point out that whenever anyone has to take antibiotics for anything it is imperative that they also take probiotics at the same time as antibiotics strip the gut of bad bacteria but also good which leaves a void for the likes of Candida to take hold again. Very good luck to all my fellow sufferers out there, be strong & have great willpower, for amazing results. I start my purging on Wednesday the 28 July 2010 & will let you know how I feel after 3 months. My goal now after so much suffering is to get the message out there to as many people as I can to help them, so that they don't have to suffer for as long as I did. Lynne."
Diabetes and my Candida
"We cannot help you, your diabetes out of control, here are some pain pills, go home, eat what you can, call your surgeon for lap band surgery. Apparently I had one foot in the grave. That was the doctor in Mercy Hospital Emergency room in July 2009. After many emergency room visits for abdominal pain, infection, 400 sugar readings, high blood pressure headache, brain fog, depression and food allergies, I was lucky to meet one doctor who looked at the white carpet on my tongue and said, "Systemic Candida". She gave me Clotrimazole to put in my mouth for two weeks, 5 times a day. I also found this website and others on the internet, and I went on Candida diet. I have been on it now for a whole year. I mean a diet of strict green veggies, cooked soups, fish and chicken that I as a personal chef designed for myself. I am 175 lb lighter, honest to god! And I have no high blood sugar (morning readings are 88, after food its 107). I have normal blood pressure and so much energy that I work 24/7! I am now consulting as food preparation adviser. I feel like a winner!!"
It feels like hell some days
"Wow I've been reading the stories and felt inspired to add mine. I've had niggling health problems for over 2 years but nothing major, then this year I got hives really bad. It lasted about 2 months then stopped, then about 7 weeks ago I woke up with a swollen face. I looked hideous, then it progressed to a tight face with breathing difficulties, depression, anxiety, chest pains (as I couldn't breathe right), then a mild rash on my face. I would swing from hunger to the sheer thought of food making me feel sick. I had countless doctor visits, even one to the hospital thinking i was having a heart attack!!! Finally the doctor looks at my nails and does a Candida test, which came back positive - the doctor does not believe my other symptoms are related, but I think they are! As well as all the medication he has given me, I am going to review my diet. I was already dairy free - now I'm going to eat probiotic yogurt everyday, and start using the coconut oil. I'm keen to hear how you go Lynne!"
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Step 1: Detox |
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Step 3: Repopulation
