Boost your immune system
The interaction between Candida and your immune system is an important part of your Candida treatment plan. A strong immune system is your first line of defense against a Candida overgrowth, but its also one of the first systems in your body that Candida attacks. So not only do you need to repair your immune system from the damage that the Candida has caused, but you also need to make it even stronger to keep your Candida in check over the long run. Candida affects your immune system in a few different ways:
• It imbalances your gut flora
• Causes Leaky Gut Syndrome
• It results in Adrenal Fatigue
• It leads to nutrient deficiency
A good lining of bacteria in your gastrointestinal tract is crucial for the immune system, because it prevents viruses and harmful bacteria from getting in your system. A healthy bacteria population of gut flora also uses nutrients quickly and efficiently, preventing colonies of harmful organisms from getting the fuel they need to grow. The lymph tissue that lines your digestive system constitute the main part of your immune cells (about 60%). It decides what bacteria and elements get through and which ones should be eliminated. It acts as a barrier for harmful bacteria and a transport for good elements. This is one reason why probiotics and prebiotics are such an important part of any Candida treatment, because it will stimulate growth of “friendly bacteria” in the intestines.
Leaky Gut Syndrome is a weakening and inflammation of the intestinal wall, which is often caused by Candida overgrowth. The Candida yeast cells attach themselves to your intestinal membrane, penetrating through into your bloodstream and provoking inflammation and a strong immune response. These allergic responses put pressure on your adrenal glands and immune system, the very parts of your body that you need to fight off the Candida.
Adrenal fatigue occurs when your adrenal glands are placed under stress for long periods.
There are a number of things you can do to lower the stress on your intestinal walls and inflammation, such as avoid powerful laxatives, avoid eating strong spices and to avoid caffeine. You should also increase your intake of soluble fibers from Psyllium husks, dried beans and peas, and oats. Use the ‘rotation diet’ to identify potential allergens, it will give your immune system a break and reduce the chance of building up extra intolerances.
Supplements with vitamins and minerals are necessesary for most Candidapatients because of low nutrient uptake from the gut. If just one essentiel vitamin or mineral is in deficit it can weaken your immunsystem, your digestion or other bodyfunctions. To have your nutrient requirements filled is one of the most important elements in your fight against Candida. For a more complete description of this see the “Immune system” section unter the “Candida treatment” section. Here you can also read about the many herbs and extracts that can boost your immune system, improve your digestion and help you fight Candida.
As Candidapatient you shall always try to cover your nutrient needs through a healthy and varied diet according to the limits of the Candidadiet. Food is the main factor of them all, that determines your health as Candidapatient and thus your ability to achieve a strong immune system. In this context, it is crucial that these foods have the highest content of nutrients. Nutrients are such as proteins, essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants and phytochemicals. Especially vegetables, legumes, nuts, whole grains, fish and pluck will boost your immune system. A detailed description of foods and the effect on the immune system can be found under the ”Candida diet” section and ”Immuneboosting foods” section.
In addition to avoid extra pressure on your adrenal glands and immune systeme you should also change your lifestyle. Reduce all kinds of stress, emotional as well as physical. Get a good sleep and do some light exercise - a strenuous workout will place your body under stress and weaken your adrenals further.
Boosting your immune system is a combination of many different factors. It is very important that you listen to your body and the signals it sends. As Candidapatient, small changes often have a great effect on your energy level and immune system, for example if you suffer from nutrient deficiency. Fortunately, there is almost always something you can do to get better.