Supplement Recommendations for Candida Overgrowth Syndrome
Most of the supplements listed below are useful until all candida symptoms have disappeared. Supplement treatment should be continued until diagnostic blood and stool tests show clearing of the candida.

Just a reminder: If you have a serious medical condition, it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a program of supplements.

Some nutritionally oriented practitioners may recommend that before you begin the supplements, you do a colon-cleansing regimen to reduce your total candida population. It's unclear, however, just how effective such a treatment is. A healthful, high-fiber diet that promotes regular elimination may be sufficient. (See the Alternative Therapies section below for more information on colon cleansing.)

Supplements to treat COS include those that kill the yeast, those that strengthen the immune system, and those that restore "good" bacteria in the intestines (known as probiotics). In addition, naturopathic physicians often add supplements to promote liver detoxification and supplements to enhance digestive function.

Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia) boosts the immune system and helps the body battle yeast infections. This herb works best when taken in alternating cycles with other immune-enhancing herbs, such as astragalus or goldenseal.

Garlic (Allium sativum) both enhances immunity and reduces Candida counts in the body. In test-tube studies, garlic has been found to inhibit the growth of C. albicans. It's also effective against a variety of infectious organisms that damage and invade tissues.

Goldenseal and other berberine-containing herbs such as Oregon grape and barberry have been studied for their ability to counteract Candida albicans. Combinations of these herbs are widely used by naturopathic physicians for chronic candida infections. There’s some evidence that goldenseal is effective for COS-related diarrhea.

Caprylic acid is a fatty acid with antifungal actions. It's made by the body in small amounts, and can also be extracted from plant fats, such as coconut and palm oils. While there isn't any recent research on caprylic acid, older studies found that when taken orally it can lessen the candida yeast's ability to grow and replicate.

Oil of oregano and other volatile oils represent the "new generation" of anti-candida preparations. Recent laboratory studies have actually shown that oil of oregano is many times more potent than caprylic acid, although more research into this oil is needed.

Lactobacillus acidophilus and L. bifidus both help maintain a healthy balance of "friendly" bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract and vagina. They also produce substances that combat hostile microorganisms. Research shows that L. acidophilus may help prevent or slow the growth of vaginal yeast infections, replacing the natural acidophilus that antibiotics destroy.

Saccharomyces boulardii (SB) is gaining recognition for its power to normalize intestinal bacteria. Like L. acidophilus, this friendly yeast produces lactic acid, which acidifies the intestinal content and reduces the candida population. It also increases levels of IgA, an antibody produced by the intestine that is helpful in combating candida overgrowth.

Lipotropic supplements and silymarin are often recommended by naturopathic physicians, who believe that candida-related toxins suppress the liver's normal ability to detoxify. This suppression accounts for the multiple chemical sensitivities and allergies associated with COS. Lipotropic combinations (including choline, betaine, methionine) and silymarin (milk thistle) both enhance liver function and protect the liver from toxic substances.

Digestive enzymes may also be suggested by naturopathic physicians, who believe low enzyme levels can lead to candida overgrowth. A comprehensive stool analysis will check for candida and also determine how efficiently your digestive process is functioning. If there's evidence of inadequate stomach acid or pancreatic enzymes, supplemental enzymes may be prescribed.

Self-Care Remedies

• Begin an exercise program. Regular exercise will help improve your overall well-being and enhance your immune system.

• Reduce stress. Learn how to do yoga, t’ai chi, or meditation, and practice them consistently.

• Wear cotton or silk underwear. This is particularly important if you are susceptible to recurrent vaginal yeast infections. Nylon or other polyester fabrics can trap moisture, creating an environment friendly to fungal growth.

• Avoid commercial feminine products. Some douches, feminine sprays, and perfumed tampons can make COS worse by irritating the delicate vaginal membranes.

• Eat yogurt. Check the label to be sure it contains active or live cultures of acidophilus; research shows a cup of yogurt a day can reduce the number of vaginal yeast infections a woman has.

• Increase dietary fiber. Eating enough fiber promotes a daily bowel movement. This will help eliminate the organisms and the toxins that the Candida yeast produces.

Alternative Therapies

Most cases of candida overgrowth can be adequately treated without the use of alternative modalities. However, the following therapies are definitely worth consideration for persistent chronic cases of COS.

Traditional Chinese Medicine. The combination of acupuncture and professionally selected Chinese herbal formulations may be able to simultaneously clear up a candida infection and strengthen the immune system.

Homeopathy. A classically trained homeopath may be able to select and combine remedies capable of treating a candida overgrowth problem.

Colon Therapy. Some, but certainly not all, practitioners believe that COS treatment should begin with a colon cleanse, mainly to reduce the total population of Candida albicans in the large intestine. The colon cleanse may be done professionally by a colon therapist or can be undertaken at home. A typical self-care procedure would be to drink at least two quarts of water or herbal tea during the day, and, twice a day, drink a mixture of psyllium husks, lactobacillus acidophilus powder, liquid bentonite clay, and water. See our WholeHealthChicago library entry on Colon Therapy for more information.

When to Call a Doctor

· If you experience the symptoms of candida overgrowth syndrome for three months and your self-treatment therapies are not helping. (Call your doctor sooner if the condition keeps you from carrying out your day-to-day activities.)

· If you have a vaginal discharge that has a strong, unpleasant odor, or is tinged with blood.

· If you have a vaginal yeast infection that returns within two months.

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