How to Identify and Manage Candida Sinus Infections
Chronic sinusitis is one of the most common conditions across all age groups in the United States. It affects approximately 11.6% of adults 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, 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.
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 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.
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, we have put together an effective candida program that provides a step-by-step approach to managing candida sinus infections. Key supplements include physician-strength formulas, Pro Biotic, Candex and Latero-Flora.
2. Oregano Oil
Oregano Oil has potent natural antifungal, 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.
3. Turmeric
Turmeric and its active component, curcumin, have many health benefits and can help manage candida. It can destroy the protective candida biofilm, which makes it sensitive to antifungal agents. Turmeric also has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, making it a very helpful herb for fighting candida.
4. Peppermint Oil
Peppermint has strong antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties for a triple punch of protection. When massaged gently into the skin around your nostrils, peppermint oil creates a cooling sensation and can help to open up blocked sinus passages.
5. Garlic
Garlic is a potent antifungal. Its active ingredient is allicin, an antimicrobial that effectively kills bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Allicin is considered an essential supplement for addressing candida sinus infections.
There are many supplements that can help with candida overgrowth, particularly when dealing with chronic sinus infections. An expert can help you choose which ones are best for you.
Call Village Green for Sinus Support
Village Green Apothecary is an integrative pharmacy that has a wide selection of high quality nutritional supplements and offers personalized wellness plans designed to optimize your health. Our store is staffed by pharmacists, nutritionists, naturopathic doctors and clinical herbalists who are available to help customers find the right supplements to meet their needs. Give us a call – we're here to help you!
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