Most Effective Candida Cleanse

Candida is one of many microorganisms living in the human intestinal tract. The intestines are a very important part of the body's immune system, besides being the place where absorption of nutrients takes place. When the yeast and bacteria that are meant to keep you healthy get out of balance and start attacking you instead, it's time to get things under control. Many products claim to do just that, so carefully consider your options.

The Yeast Connection

Several years ago, a doctor named William G. Crook wrote a book called "The Yeast Connection." He proposed that many modern chronic ailments were the result of an overgrowth of the intestinal yeast, Candida albicans. While there is still debate in the medical community, testimonies can be found all over the Internet from people who followed Dr. Crook's recommendations and found their health much improved. According to the website devoted to this book, yeastconnection.com, the first thing to do if you suspect a candida overgrowth is to make sure. The self-evaluation quiz includes questions like, "Have you taken repeated or prolonged courses of antibacterial drugs?" and "Are you bothered by memory or concentration problems? Do you sometimes feel 'spaced out?' " Once you have determined that you probably have a yeast problem, plan a course of action.

Diet and Supplements

Several companies market good yeast-killing supplements. Some brand names include TwinLab's Yeast Fighters, Nutrition Now's Yeast Defense and Caprynol by Nature's Answer. The main thing you need to look for is whether the supplement includes at least two of the primary ingredients known to kill yeast: caprylic acid, garlic, Pau D'arco and oil of oregano. Caprylic acid is a fatty acid derived from coconut oil. It has been shown to be one of the most effective yeast-killing supplements you can use. The allecin in garlic also does a good job, and garlic supplementation is a good idea for other reasons as well, including heart health. The bark of the Pau D'arco tree does not grow fungus, even though it grows in the moist rain forest, so it has proven antifungal properties.

Regardless of the supplement you choose, follow the package directions faithfully, because candida is not easily beaten. This yeast feeds on sugar and other simple carbohydrates, so limit or eliminate your intake of breads, pasta, sweets and even fruit while you take the supplement. Drink plenty of water and take a fiber supplement, like psyllium husk, to help you eliminate the killed-off yeast. You may notice "kill-off" symptoms such as nausea, fatigue and diarrhea or constipation. These will pass.

After you have completed this part of the plan, start supplementing your diet with probiotic products like AccuFlora. These help increase your levels of beneficial flora to keep the yeast in check, and improve your ability to absorb the nutrients from your food. Follow a good diet of vegetables, fruit, whole grains and quality proteins like legumes and lean meats, limiting simple carbohydrates.