Candida is a type of yeast (fungus) that naturally resides in areas of the human body like the mouth, throat, gut, and vagina. In small amounts, it is harmless and part of the normal microbiome, but under certain conditions, it can grow out of balance, leading to infections.
Key Features:
- Natural Occurrence: Candida is a normal part of the body’s microbial flora, especially in the digestive tract, on the skin, and in mucous membranes.
- Overgrowth Factors: Candida overgrowth can result from a weakened immune system, poor diet, stress, or the use of antibiotics, which disrupt the balance of bacteria.
- Common Species: Candida albicans is the most frequent cause of Candida infections, but other species, such as Candida glabrata, can also lead to health issues.
Benefits of Supplements for Candida:
- Probiotics: Can help restore healthy gut flora, making it harder for Candida to overgrow.
- Antifungal Supplements: Natural antifungal ingredients like oregano oil or caprylic acid are often used to manage Candida overgrowth.
- Digestive Support: Supplements containing digestive enzymes may improve nutrient absorption and support gut health, reducing the likelihood of Candida imbalance.