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Could Candida Be Behind Your Digestive Issues?

Could Candida Be Behind Your Digestive Issues?

Could Candida Be Behind Your Digestive Issues?

Could Candida Be Behind Your Digestive Issues?

Could Candida Be Behind Your Digestive Issues?

May 12, 2025

              

If you’ve been struggling with bloating, fatigue, sugar cravings, or even recurring yeast infections, you’re not alone, and there may be a sneaky culprit behind it: Candida. Candida is a type of yeast that naturally lives in our bodies, especially in the mouth, digestive tract, and on the skin. In small amounts, it’s harmless. However, under certain conditions, Candida can grow out of control, leading to a wide range of symptoms that often feel vague, persistent, and hard to explain. This state is known as Candida overgrowth, and it may be more common than you think. So why does this happen, and why can it be so hard to get rid of? Let’s walk through it. 

Candida: A Fungus That’s Hard to Shake 

Our bodies are full of microbes, some friendly, some not so much. Candida is one of those “in-between” microbes. It doesn’t cause problems unless something shifts in the environment that allows it to take over. The problem? Candida is highly adaptable. It can change shape, form protective shields called biofilms, and even evade your immune system’s defenses. These survival tricks make it hard for your body to get rid of it naturally, and they’re part of the reason why symptoms of Candida overgrowth can drag on for months, or even years. 

What Triggers Candida Overgrowth? 

Candida tends to thrive when the balance of bacteria in your gut is disrupted. This often happens after a round of antibiotics, which can wipe out the good bacteria that help keep Candida in check. But there are other factors, too: 


  • High-sugar or high-carb diets feed yeast and help it grow 

  • Hormonal shifts, such as those caused by birth control or perimenopause 

  • Chronic stress, which can weaken the immune system 

  • Blood sugar issues or diabetes 

  • Frequent alcohol consumption 

  • Digestive issues like constipation or leaky gut 


If your system is out of balance, Candida may seize the opportunity. 

Common Signs of Candida Overgrowth 

Because Candida can affect so many systems in the body, symptoms can vary. You might notice: 


  • Bloating, gas, or constipation 

  • Brain fog or poor concentration 

  • Recurring yeast infections or UTIs 

  • Skin issues like rashes or itching 

  • Strong sugar cravings 

  • Fatigue that doesn’t seem to lift 


If several of these sound familiar, it might be worth looking deeper. 

Why “Just Killing the Yeast” Isn’t Enough 

Many people are surprised to learn that Candida overgrowth often comes back after trying an antifungal or cutting out sugar for a while. That’s because Candida is stubborn. It can become resistant to medications or herbal remedies if used in isolation or for too short a time. What’s more, when Candida cells die, they release toxins that can make you feel worse before you feel better, a phenomenon known as die-off. This is why it’s important to approach Candida gently and in phases, supporting your detox and immune systems along the way. 

What Can Help? 

Although we don't recommend specific supplements or treatment protocols in this blog (since care should be personalized), here are some general strategies to support your recovery from Candida overgrowth: 


  • Eliminate added sugars and refined carbohydrates; yeast thrives on sugar, so cutting back can help starve it out. 

  • Follow an anti-inflammatory, whole-foods diet; focus on vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber to support gut healing. 

  • Reduce alcohol, especially beer and wine, which are fermented and can feed yeast. 

  • Manage stress and prioritize sleep; chronic stress and poor sleep both weaken immune function, giving Candida more opportunities to thrive. 

  • Address underlying issues such as blood sugar imbalances or sluggish digestion, which can make it harder for your body to maintain balance. 

  • Work with a naturopath to assess and support gut health, immunity, and detox pathways. 


Working with a naturopathic doctor can help you develop a plan that addresses not only the yeast but also the underlying imbalances that allowed it to grow in the first place. 

Why Support Matters 

Candida overgrowth often doesn’t happen in isolation. It can go hand in hand with leaky gut, hormone imbalances, sluggish detox pathways, or blood sugar issues. That’s why treating it isn’t about wiping out yeast, it’s about restoring balance in your body. At the Center for Natural Medicine, we take a comprehensive, personalized approach to gut health. If you suspect Candida might be contributing to your symptoms, we’re here to help you uncover what’s really going on and guide you toward lasting relief. 

Ready to Learn More? 

If you’ve been dealing with symptoms that won’t go away, Candida overgrowth may be part of the picture. Schedule a visit with us to explore your gut health and create a plan that works for your unique body and lifestyle. 

References: 

Calderone, R. A., & Clancy, C. J. (Eds.). (2011). Candida and candidiasis (2nd ed.). ASM Press.
 

Pappas, P. G., Kauffman, C. A., Andes, D. R., Clancy, C. J., Marr, K. A., Ostrosky-Zeichner, L., Reboli, A. C., Schuster, M. G., Vazquez, J. A., Walsh, T. J., Zaoutis, T. E., & Sobel, J. D. (2016). Clinical practice guideline for the management of candidiasis: 2016 update by the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 62(4), e1–e50. https://doi.org/10.1093/cid/civ933

          
              

If you’ve been struggling with bloating, fatigue, sugar cravings, or even recurring yeast infections, you’re not alone, and there may be a sneaky culprit behind it: Candida. Candida is a type of yeast that naturally lives in our bodies, especially in the mouth, digestive tract, and on the skin. In small amounts, it’s harmless. However, under certain conditions, Candida can grow out of control, leading to a wide range of symptoms that often feel vague, persistent, and hard to explain. This state is known as Candida overgrowth, and it may be more common than you think. So why does this happen, and why can it be so hard to get rid of? Let’s walk through it. 

Candida: A Fungus That’s Hard to Shake 

Our bodies are full of microbes, some friendly, some not so much. Candida is one of those “in-between” microbes. It doesn’t cause problems unless something shifts in the environment that allows it to take over. The problem? Candida is highly adaptable. It can change shape, form protective shields called biofilms, and even evade your immune system’s defenses. These survival tricks make it hard for your body to get rid of it naturally, and they’re part of the reason why symptoms of Candida overgrowth can drag on for months, or even years. 

What Triggers Candida Overgrowth? 

Candida tends to thrive when the balance of bacteria in your gut is disrupted. This often happens after a round of antibiotics, which can wipe out the good bacteria that help keep Candida in check. But there are other factors, too: 


  • High-sugar or high-carb diets feed yeast and help it grow 

  • Hormonal shifts, such as those caused by birth control or perimenopause 

  • Chronic stress, which can weaken the immune system 

  • Blood sugar issues or diabetes 

  • Frequent alcohol consumption 

  • Digestive issues like constipation or leaky gut 


If your system is out of balance, Candida may seize the opportunity. 

Common Signs of Candida Overgrowth 

Because Candida can affect so many systems in the body, symptoms can vary. You might notice: 


  • Bloating, gas, or constipation 

  • Brain fog or poor concentration 

  • Recurring yeast infections or UTIs 

  • Skin issues like rashes or itching 

  • Strong sugar cravings 

  • Fatigue that doesn’t seem to lift 


If several of these sound familiar, it might be worth looking deeper. 

Why “Just Killing the Yeast” Isn’t Enough 

Many people are surprised to learn that Candida overgrowth often comes back after trying an antifungal or cutting out sugar for a while. That’s because Candida is stubborn. It can become resistant to medications or herbal remedies if used in isolation or for too short a time. What’s more, when Candida cells die, they release toxins that can make you feel worse before you feel better, a phenomenon known as die-off. This is why it’s important to approach Candida gently and in phases, supporting your detox and immune systems along the way. 

What Can Help? 

Although we don't recommend specific supplements or treatment protocols in this blog (since care should be personalized), here are some general strategies to support your recovery from Candida overgrowth: 


  • Eliminate added sugars and refined carbohydrates; yeast thrives on sugar, so cutting back can help starve it out. 

  • Follow an anti-inflammatory, whole-foods diet; focus on vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber to support gut healing. 

  • Reduce alcohol, especially beer and wine, which are fermented and can feed yeast. 

  • Manage stress and prioritize sleep; chronic stress and poor sleep both weaken immune function, giving Candida more opportunities to thrive. 

  • Address underlying issues such as blood sugar imbalances or sluggish digestion, which can make it harder for your body to maintain balance. 

  • Work with a naturopath to assess and support gut health, immunity, and detox pathways. 


Working with a naturopathic doctor can help you develop a plan that addresses not only the yeast but also the underlying imbalances that allowed it to grow in the first place. 

Why Support Matters 

Candida overgrowth often doesn’t happen in isolation. It can go hand in hand with leaky gut, hormone imbalances, sluggish detox pathways, or blood sugar issues. That’s why treating it isn’t about wiping out yeast, it’s about restoring balance in your body. At the Center for Natural Medicine, we take a comprehensive, personalized approach to gut health. If you suspect Candida might be contributing to your symptoms, we’re here to help you uncover what’s really going on and guide you toward lasting relief. 

Ready to Learn More? 

If you’ve been dealing with symptoms that won’t go away, Candida overgrowth may be part of the picture. Schedule a visit with us to explore your gut health and create a plan that works for your unique body and lifestyle. 

References: 

Calderone, R. A., & Clancy, C. J. (Eds.). (2011). Candida and candidiasis (2nd ed.). ASM Press.
 

Pappas, P. G., Kauffman, C. A., Andes, D. R., Clancy, C. J., Marr, K. A., Ostrosky-Zeichner, L., Reboli, A. C., Schuster, M. G., Vazquez, J. A., Walsh, T. J., Zaoutis, T. E., & Sobel, J. D. (2016). Clinical practice guideline for the management of candidiasis: 2016 update by the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 62(4), e1–e50. https://doi.org/10.1093/cid/civ933

          
              

If you’ve been struggling with bloating, fatigue, sugar cravings, or even recurring yeast infections, you’re not alone, and there may be a sneaky culprit behind it: Candida. Candida is a type of yeast that naturally lives in our bodies, especially in the mouth, digestive tract, and on the skin. In small amounts, it’s harmless. However, under certain conditions, Candida can grow out of control, leading to a wide range of symptoms that often feel vague, persistent, and hard to explain. This state is known as Candida overgrowth, and it may be more common than you think. So why does this happen, and why can it be so hard to get rid of? Let’s walk through it. 

Candida: A Fungus That’s Hard to Shake 

Our bodies are full of microbes, some friendly, some not so much. Candida is one of those “in-between” microbes. It doesn’t cause problems unless something shifts in the environment that allows it to take over. The problem? Candida is highly adaptable. It can change shape, form protective shields called biofilms, and even evade your immune system’s defenses. These survival tricks make it hard for your body to get rid of it naturally, and they’re part of the reason why symptoms of Candida overgrowth can drag on for months, or even years. 

What Triggers Candida Overgrowth? 

Candida tends to thrive when the balance of bacteria in your gut is disrupted. This often happens after a round of antibiotics, which can wipe out the good bacteria that help keep Candida in check. But there are other factors, too: 


  • High-sugar or high-carb diets feed yeast and help it grow 

  • Hormonal shifts, such as those caused by birth control or perimenopause 

  • Chronic stress, which can weaken the immune system 

  • Blood sugar issues or diabetes 

  • Frequent alcohol consumption 

  • Digestive issues like constipation or leaky gut 


If your system is out of balance, Candida may seize the opportunity. 

Common Signs of Candida Overgrowth 

Because Candida can affect so many systems in the body, symptoms can vary. You might notice: 


  • Bloating, gas, or constipation 

  • Brain fog or poor concentration 

  • Recurring yeast infections or UTIs 

  • Skin issues like rashes or itching 

  • Strong sugar cravings 

  • Fatigue that doesn’t seem to lift 


If several of these sound familiar, it might be worth looking deeper. 

Why “Just Killing the Yeast” Isn’t Enough 

Many people are surprised to learn that Candida overgrowth often comes back after trying an antifungal or cutting out sugar for a while. That’s because Candida is stubborn. It can become resistant to medications or herbal remedies if used in isolation or for too short a time. What’s more, when Candida cells die, they release toxins that can make you feel worse before you feel better, a phenomenon known as die-off. This is why it’s important to approach Candida gently and in phases, supporting your detox and immune systems along the way. 

What Can Help? 

Although we don't recommend specific supplements or treatment protocols in this blog (since care should be personalized), here are some general strategies to support your recovery from Candida overgrowth: 


  • Eliminate added sugars and refined carbohydrates; yeast thrives on sugar, so cutting back can help starve it out. 

  • Follow an anti-inflammatory, whole-foods diet; focus on vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber to support gut healing. 

  • Reduce alcohol, especially beer and wine, which are fermented and can feed yeast. 

  • Manage stress and prioritize sleep; chronic stress and poor sleep both weaken immune function, giving Candida more opportunities to thrive. 

  • Address underlying issues such as blood sugar imbalances or sluggish digestion, which can make it harder for your body to maintain balance. 

  • Work with a naturopath to assess and support gut health, immunity, and detox pathways. 


Working with a naturopathic doctor can help you develop a plan that addresses not only the yeast but also the underlying imbalances that allowed it to grow in the first place. 

Why Support Matters 

Candida overgrowth often doesn’t happen in isolation. It can go hand in hand with leaky gut, hormone imbalances, sluggish detox pathways, or blood sugar issues. That’s why treating it isn’t about wiping out yeast, it’s about restoring balance in your body. At the Center for Natural Medicine, we take a comprehensive, personalized approach to gut health. If you suspect Candida might be contributing to your symptoms, we’re here to help you uncover what’s really going on and guide you toward lasting relief. 

Ready to Learn More? 

If you’ve been dealing with symptoms that won’t go away, Candida overgrowth may be part of the picture. Schedule a visit with us to explore your gut health and create a plan that works for your unique body and lifestyle. 

References: 

Calderone, R. A., & Clancy, C. J. (Eds.). (2011). Candida and candidiasis (2nd ed.). ASM Press.
 

Pappas, P. G., Kauffman, C. A., Andes, D. R., Clancy, C. J., Marr, K. A., Ostrosky-Zeichner, L., Reboli, A. C., Schuster, M. G., Vazquez, J. A., Walsh, T. J., Zaoutis, T. E., & Sobel, J. D. (2016). Clinical practice guideline for the management of candidiasis: 2016 update by the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 62(4), e1–e50. https://doi.org/10.1093/cid/civ933

          

Connect with us to begin your healing journey today.

Experience holistic healing that restores balance and vitality.

Connect with us to begin
your healing journey today.

Experience holistic healing that restores balance and vitality.

Connect with us to begin
your healing journey today.

Experience holistic healing that restores balance and vitality.

Connect with us to begin
your healing journey today.

Experience holistic healing that restores balance and vitality.

          

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