What is an Intestinal Yeast Infection?

An intestinal yeast infection occurs when yeast that is naturally found in the human intestine overgrows. Often, the yeast involved in this infection is candida albicans. The overgrowth of yeast can cause different symptoms such as fatigue, confusion, memory loss, and diarrhea. Untreated intestinal yeast infection can lead to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), can contribute to food allergies, and can cause Systemic Candida Overgrowth. Many forms of intestinal yeast infection can be treated with changes in diet and lifestyle, as well as supplements and medications.

Every healthy person should have a normal amount of yeast in the intestine. It is this yeast that helps to control bad bacteria and helps to keep the normal intestinal flora in check. The body’s immune system, along with good bacteria, helps to keep this yeast under control and prevent it from overgrowing. When one or more circumstances throw the body’s system out of balance, yeasts can grow out of control. This overgrowth can result in an intestinal yeast infection, which can lead to other severe health problems.

One way a body’s systems can be thrown out of balance is the overuse of antibiotics. Some bacteria help to reduce the amount of yeast present in the intestine. When too many antibiotics are taken that beneficial bacteria can die and allow the yeast to overgrow. Antibiotics should be taken under the direction of a doctor and only in need. Traces of antibiotics can be found in the water supply of some cities so water purifiers may be needed to remove them.

A compromised immune system and too much sugar in the diet may also contribute to an imbalance of a body’s systems. The immune system of a normally functioning human body will help to control the amount of yeast in the body. In addition, too much sugar, starch, and processed foods can offer the yeast the food they need to proliferate. Other contributors that may lead to intestinal yeast infection can include birth control and a copper imbalance. A change in a person’s lifestyle and diet can work to correct the system’s imbalance and reduce the amount of yeast that is able to grow in the body.

If an intestinal yeast infection is not treated, the yeast could multiply to the point where they may cause Systemic Candida Overgrowth. In this circumstance, the yeast, which is a fungus, could start sending out rhizoids, a fungus’ version of roots. These rhizoids can penetrate the intestinal lining and cause holes in the intestine. Food particles, toxins, and yeast can then travel through these holes into the blood stream and cause severe problems. As a result, some people can experience food allergies or the yeast can travel to and infect various organs.