We all a have yeast type organisms present in our bodies as part of the natural flora. The best known and prevalent of these is candida albicans. Under normal circumstances the candida is kept under control but if the immune system is compromised then the fungus can take hold and expand. Generally external infections can be dealt with quite easily with anti fungal creams but sometimes it can be more difficult if the infection is internal

There are a number of treatments available for a yeast infection but the one regarded as being most effective is a candida free diet. This involves removing sugar and yeast products from the diet. Sugar products include all refined and processed sugar, artificial sweeteners and fructose which occurs naturally in fruit and some vegetables. Yeast products include bread and cakes, alcohol and fermented products like vinegar.

Other items include mushrooms which are a fungus, Cheese which is produced using bacteria and specifically wheat flour which has a high gluten content. Much of the diet is left to the individual and what they feel comfortable with. It is important to read the ingredients of any processed food that is bought to check the contents. While most herbs and seasoning are considered okay many processed foods have a range of chemicals as preservatives or flavorings which can reduce the effectiveness of the diet.

The premise behind the diet is that the candida overgrowth will be unable to reproduce allowing the beneficial bacteria the opportunity to bring it under control. But because the yeast will continue to feed then the treatment will not happen overnight. Usually the diet will take around 6 - 8 weeks to have any beneficial effects.

Reported benefits have included an increase in energy levels, looking and feeling younger and a general overall feeling of good health. Also many people report significant weight loss which may or may not be a good thing.

Some of the side effects reported have been fatigue, constipation, headaches and bad breath. These are usually in the first few weeks of the diet as the body tries to rid itself of the dead yeast and the associated toxins. Many people consider a system cleansing at this point but you should consult a doctor first. As the stomach and intestine lining could be damaged you may do more harm than good.

At the present time there is no real evidence that a candida free diet has any effect on candida overgrowth. The diet in itself is similar to a recommended weight loss diet which explains the reported weight loss by some people. The removal of processed foods from the diet would help clear all the toxins and antioxidants from the body which would explain why people feel much healthier. But, even with the absence of scientific proof, there is ever growing evidence that the diet is effective.