While more research is needed, the candida diet limits foods and drinks with the potential to increase candida. The diet typically excludes alcohol, caffeine, and foods high in sugar and gluten. Candida is the most common fungus in the human body.
The candida diet is a strict diet meant to alleviate the symptoms of candida infections. However, its effectiveness is unsupported by scientific evidence. There are more than known candida species living in various parts of your body.
These species aid digestion and nutrient absorption from food. Possible symptoms of an infection include 3456 :. Despite the large number of candida species in your body, only 15 can cause an infection. Candida albicans is the most common infection culprit, accounting for over half of all cases 7.
There are several risk factors for candida infection, including 189101112 :. If you have any of these risk factors, try addressing them through a change in diet or lifestyle. Consider incorporating meditation or stress management into your schedule.
Over different candida species live in your body. Of these, 15 can cause infection if they overgrow. Risk factors for candida infections include a weak immune system and use of broad-spectrum antibiotics. Though many studies have examined the risk factors for candida overgrowth, treatment plans are inconsistent and insufficiently studied This diet excludes sugar, gluten, alcohol, certain dairy products and harmful additives while encouraging low-sugar fruits, non-starchy vegetables and gluten-free foods.
However, most of these dietary restrictions are not supported by scientific evidence, as explained below:. Alcohol and caffeine are discouraged in order to support healthy lifestyle practices and prevent dietary cheating. Overall, this diet is designed to reduce inflammation and incorporate wholesome foods that may benefit your gut and reduce the risk of candida over time.
The candida diet is supposed to reduce inflammation and ultimately cure candida infection by restricting certain food groups. However, there is currently no evidence that the diet works. Before beginning the candida diet, advocates recommend going on a candida cleanse.
This is a short-term diet that proponents believe will alleviate stress on your digestive tract and release toxins from your body. While no studies support the benefits of a candida cleanse, it might help get you into the mindset for the candida diet.