A person with Systemic Candida experiences sugar cravings, much like an addict craves drugs or alcohol. But take a deep breath. You are not addicted to sugar.

Why someone with Systemic Candida craves sugar:
To begin with, the human body, much like the earth itself, is a host to millions of microscopic life forms, bacteria and fungi. Most of these life forms reside in the gut. Some sustain our lives; some make us ill. The idea that we could be a virtual breeding ground for other life forms may seem shocking and even appalling. But getting to know your body the way it was created, and how it functions, can mean a new relationship with yourself that is miraculous and empowering.

Because Candida albicans is a family of yeasts, and yeast is a living entity, it needs food to thrive. Candida albicans happens to flourish on sugar. When the friendly flora in the intestinal tract becomes compromised, Candida albicans grow out of control, and leak into other areas of the body. When this happens, you, the host will respond to their hunger signals. So, it is important to understand that it is the Candida albicans who need the sugar, not the host.

What foods to avoid for Systemic Candida, and why:
Candida albicans thrives on sugar, but eliminating sweets will not automatically restore the healthy yeast count in your intestines. Since your friendly flora have been compromised, any fermented, mold containing, or yeast containing foods will feed the Candida overgrowth, so those foods need to be eliminated, too. You will also need to stay away from antibiotics, birth control pills and steroids, as these substances can compromise the friendly flora balance.

Stay away from mold and fungus containing or sustaining foods:

Dried fruits (they contain mold)

Grapes

Peanuts (there is a kind of mold that grows inside the shell)

Pickled or cured foods

All cheeses

Mushrooms

Soy condiments

Dried herbs (including teas) that may have gotten moldy

Tomatoes from a can

Malt and malt products

Stay away from yeast containing foods:

Any B vitamin supplements not labeled “yeast free”

Alcohol

Baked goods: Bread, rolls, pretzels, etc.

Vinegar (including most condiments, sauerkraut and pickles)

Commercially prepared foods

Stay away from all sugars:

Refined, white sugar

Brown sugar

Unrefined sugar

Honey

Maple products

Fructose and corn syrup

Fruit juices

What foods are okay if you had Systemic Candida:

Certain fruits

All vegetables (fresh), either raw or lightly steamed or stir-fried.

Fresh meats

Limited whole grains and beans

Olive oil (I recommend using only Olive oil. The body processes most other oils as toxins)

Candida friendly natural sweeteners:

Stevia

Lo Han

Xylitol

For a full list of Candida friendly foods, visit this PDF link:
WholeApproach.com Food Lists

How long does it take to clear the system of Systemic Candida?
Always follow the Systemic Candida diet plan with a certified practitioner. They will see you through the process, and will also provide you with specific supplements. These may include antifungal agents, digestive enzymes, probiotics, vitamins and minerals. Diet alone will not fully cure you. The process takes three to four months. The first week or so may prove to be a challenge as the Candida begins to die off. You may feel much worse during that time period. But hang in there. It will get better. Remember to follow-up your treatment with three probiotic capsules per day.



*Please know that I am not a medical doctor or a health practitioner. I cannot diagnose your stomach problems nor can I guarantee a cure. I am here to share my knowledge, which applications have worked for me and to offer suggestions of where you may go physically, emotionally and spiritually for healing and self-empowerment. If you choose to explore alternative medicine, do not independently stop taking your prescribed medications. Always consult with your current doctor as well as your new practitioner when changing your medical program