# How to Identify and Manage Candida Sinus Infections **By Village Green Nutrition Team** · 2021-09-28 ![A woman with inflamed sinuses battles a candida sinus infection.](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0319/0960/9603/files/candida-sinus-infection_300.jpg?v=1632850774) Chronic sinusitis is one of the most common conditions across all age groups in the United States. It affects approximately [11.6% of adults](https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/sinuses.htm) in the U.S., causing difficulty breathing, reduced sense of taste and smell, pain, congestion, excessive mucus and difficulty sleeping. Because it persists and recurs, sinusitis can be very disruptive to daily life.  There are many causes of [chronic sinusitis](https://myvillagegreen.com/blogs/post/the-complete-guide-to-chronic-sinusitis-treatment), but this piece will look at one that’s often misunderstood: candida. Overgrowth of this fungus (known as candidiasis) is a frequent cause of chronic sinus infections, yet it’s often overlooked, rendering it harder to manage and treat. This guide will explain what candida is, how it causes sinus infections, and how to get it under control. ## What is Candida and How Does It Affect Sinuses? Candida is a fungal yeast naturally found in and on the human body, but when overgrowth occurs, it can lead to disease and infection. As much as 96% of chronic sinus infections are fungal related, according to a [Mayo Clinic study](http://www.princeton.edu/~gpmenos/mold_facts/MayoClinicStudyImplicatesFungusasCauseofChronicSinusi.pdf). Mucous membranes in the body help protect the fragile layers of cells under them. They are found in the nose, mouth, urinary tract, vagina, lungs and digestive tract. The protective functions are disabled when faced with damage or infection, and harmful bacteria can break through. Candida is part of the germ-fighting [microbiome](https://myvillagegreen.com/blogs/post/4-supplements-to-support-a-healthy-microbiome) of the mucus membranes. Healthy bacteria work to keep levels of candida under control. An upset to the immune system or amounts of beneficial bacteria can cause an overgrowth of candida, possibly resulting in infections, such as in the nose and [sinuses](https://myvillagegreen.com/blogs/post/sinus-headache-vs-migraine-how-to-tell-the-difference). Antibiotics are the typical treatment for sinus infections, but they won’t cure those caused by candida overgrowth. In fact, taking antibiotics can result in even more of a candida imbalance.  ## How to Fight Candida Overgrowth Candidiasis can cause infections in the eyes and ears, the vagina, and fingers and toenails. Fighting candida overgrowth takes a comprehensive approach that involves carefully deciding what foods to eat, employing natural antifungal treatments, and engaging in a healthy detox program.  ### Candida-Fighting Diet Candida is a living organism, so it needs a food source to survive. Reducing the intake of things that feed candida, such as sugars, alcohol and refined carbs, can help starve it out. Some foods to include in your diet to help balance and control candida are: - Asparagus - Brussels sprouts - Kale - Broccoli - Cabbage - Garlic  - Low-sugar fruits (lemons, limes, berries) Any low-sugar, non-starchy vegetable is an excellent choice to fight the overgrowth of yeast and other fungal enemies. Eating high-quality protein, such as organic, free-range chicken, eggs and meat, in addition to wild-caught fish, can be part of a candida diet. Also, healthy fats, such as avocado, coconut, olive oil, chia and flaxseeds, are some good choices. Before embarking on any specialized diet, it is important to consult with a nutritionist to make sure you are getting all the nutrients you need, while still achieving your goal.  ### Exercise and Activity Being active is a vital part of staying healthy. Exercise directly affects the body's microbiome. Without enough exercise, candida, and other organisms can become unbalanced.  A regular exercise routine boosts immunity and detoxification and reduces stress levels, all of which are essential for decreasing candida overgrowth. ### Healthy Habits Unhealthy habits, such as smoking, can knock the body’s pH out of balance, which can set the stage for candida overgrowth. Eating a healthy diet, getting adequate sleep, reducing stress levels and exercising can all help to balance the body’s pH. As part of a comprehensive approach to managing candida, taking nutritional supplements can also be very beneficial.  ## **Powerful Supplements to Help with Candida Sinus Infections** Supplements can play an important role in strengthening immune health, addressing candida overgrowth, and generally promoting the balance of beneficial bacteria. Here are a few effective supplements to help with candida sinus infections.  ### 1\. Herbal Sinus Protocol In conjunction with [Sinus Survival](https://myvillagegreen.com/collections/sinus-survival), we have put together an effective [candida program](https://myvillagegreen.com/products/candida-support-bundle) that provides a step-by-step approach to managing candida sinus infections. Key supplements include physician-strength formulas, [Pro Biotic](https://myvillagegreen.com/products/pro-biotic?_pos=3&_sid=e53a414b4&_ss=r), [Candex](https://myvillagegreen.com/products/candex) and [Latero-Flora](https://myvillagegreen.com/products/latero-flora).  ### 2\. Oregano Oil  Oregano Oil has potent [natural antifungal](https://myvillagegreen.com/collections/herbs/products/oregano-oil), antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been shown to inhibit candida overgrowth. As a supplement, it is available in a variety of forms, including liquid and capsule. **Tags:** candida, Category_Health Concerns, Category_Nutritional Supplements, sinus infections --- > Source: [Village Green Apothecary](https://myvillagegreen.com/blogs/post/how-to-identify-and-manage-candida-sinus-infections)