With a naturopathic perspective, we look at the symptom picture as a whole, and look for other contributing factors that may lead to the root cause of a candida overgrowth. The presentation of candida symptoms is often different for each person, therefore the treatment plans will vary depending on the individual.

What is candida?

Candida, also known as Candidiasis, is a fungal infection caused by yeast overgrowth that usualy reside in the intestines and can also be spread to the skin, mouth and throat.

There are several reasons why candida may present in the body, and some people may be more susceptible than others for this to occur.

Some of the main causes of yeast overgrowth include underlying blood sugar dysregulation, antibiotic and steroid use, infections, heavy metal toxicity, imbalanced immune function, inflammation in the gut or gut dysbiosis as a result of antibiotic use, and underlying food intolerances. Diet plays a huge role in both the manifestation of candida and also in its successful eradication, and paying close attention to foods is a major area of focus for naturopathic practitioners and nutritionists when addressing a candida issue. Not surprisingly, candida is a complicated and intricate thing to treat, and often requires an in depth look into lifestyle, past medical history, nutrition inputs and blood sugar balance to create a therapeutic and sustainable plan. That’s where working with a naturopathic doctor and nutritionist can be extremely beneficial.

Read more: Naturopathic Approach to Dermatology & Skin Conditions

Symptoms of candida may include:

• fatigue
• headaches
• constipation
• diarrhea
• abdominal pain
• gas
• bloating
• rectal itching
• bad breate
• White coating on the tongue (called “thrush”)
• frequent vaginal yeast infections or symptoms of vaginal itching, burning or discharge
• cystiti
• anxiety
• depression
• sinus issues
• skin itching or rashes
• cravings for sugars and carbohydrates.

All of these symptoms are not specific to candida alone, and also present as a result of a number of other imbalances, and with a naturopathic perspective, we look at the symptom picture as a whole, and look for other contributing factors that may lead to the root cause of a candida overgrowth.

At Richmond Natural Medicine, our practitioners take a holistic and thorough approach in dealing with the presentation of candida.

Candida is almost always a symptom of another underlying imbalance, and addressing those underlying imbalances is where our practitioners will target their therapies. Their treatment plans usually consist of determining underlying food intolerances, optimizing digestive function, improving gut, skin and vaginal flora (probiotics), using appropriate topical treatments when necessary, formulating custom compounded herbal formulas, biotherapeutic drainage, and incorporating in homeopathic remedies. 

Is this an area where you may need some support?  Please contact our office at (804) 977-2634 to schedule an appointment with one of our practitioners.