Best Probiotics for Treating Candida

Candida syndrome occurs when your normal population of intestinal yeast suddenly explodes. Overgrowth of one species of yeast called Candida albicans supposedly causes candida syndrome, which is characterized by chronic fatigue, weight gain, a white coating on the tongue and joint pain. Taking probiotics such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei GG and bifidobacteria creates a hostile environment for candida yeast, returning your gut yeast population to normal levels 23. Most conventional doctors consider the diagnosis of candida overgrowth controversial, so talk to your physician before taking probiotics to cure candida syndrome 3.

Purpose

Candida yeast live in harmony with other microorganisms in the guts of healthy adults. Taking antibiotics, hormonal birth control pills and other medications may kill the beneficial bacteria that keep candida yeast populations under control. Introducing probiotics, which are good bacteria, kills excess candida yeast 3. This improves symptoms of candida syndrome.

L. Acidophilus

Lactobacillus acidophilus is a species of probiotic bacteria 2. L. acidophilus creates toxic byproducts, such as hydrogen peroxide and lactic acid, when it comes into contact with food in your gut. These byproducts kill candida yeast. Eating yogurt with live, active cultures delivers L. acidophilus to your gut, which may improve your symptoms. L. acidophilus supplements are also available in tablet, capsule and liquid form.

L. Casei GG

Lactobacillus casei GG is a strain of bacteria that is resistant to acidity in your stomach. This means that you can take oral L. casei GG supplements without the bacteria dying before they reach your gastrointestinal tract. Supplements containing L. casei GG are commercially available in capsule form. Lactobacillus bacteria naturally occur in pickles, cheese, sauerkraut and some yogurts.

Bifidobacteria

Your intestines naturally contain bifidobacteria, which help digest your food. Consuming bifidobacteria improves abdominal pain, bloating, difficult bowel movements, gas and other symptoms of candida syndrome. Certain types of yogurt with live, active cultures contain bifidobacteria.

Considerations

Although anecdotal evidence suggests that taking probiotics may cure candida syndrome, no scientific evidence supports these claims 3. Many medical professionals do not believe that intestinal candida overgrowth causes health problems. Discuss your symptoms with a doctor before taking probiotics to ensure that your health problems are not due to another medical condition.