Candida is a term we often hear associated with infections and disorders of the genital tract or mouth, but it is much more than that. Candida refers to a genus of fungi, among which Candida albicans is the most common and clinically relevant. These fungi are normally present in our bodies. However, under certain circumstances, they can proliferate and cause health problems. In this article, we will explore in detail what Candida is, the factors that can influence its growth, and the implications it may have on our health.
What is Candida albicans?
Candida is a genus of fungi that belongs to yeasts. Candida albicans is the species most commonly associated with human infections. It is a microorganism normally present in our body. In particular, it is found mainly in the gastrointestinal tract and the female genital tract. Under normal conditions, Candida albicans coexists with other microorganisms in our body without causing problems. However, when favorable conditions for its growth are present, this yeast can multiply. This can cause an infection known as candidiasis.
This condition can occur in different parts of the body, including:
- the mouth (oral thrush),
- the female genital tract (vaginal yeast infections),
- and the skin (cutaneous candidiasis).
Moreover, Candida can also cause more serious systemic infections, especially in individuals with a compromised immune system.
Factors Influencing the Growth of Candida
Like all fungi, Candida albicans thrives in warm, moist, and sugary environments. Its growth is generally kept in check by the immune system and by the presence of bacteria in our body that prevent it from overgrowing. In fact, when the gut microbiota is balanced (a condition known as eubiosis), the growth of opportunistic pathogens such as Candida albicans is controlled. However, some factors can promote excessive Candida growth, including:
- Antibiotic therapies: Prolonged use of antibiotics can disrupt the balance of the microbiota and destroy beneficial bacteria in our body, thus promoting the growth of Candida albicans.
- Diet high in sugars and refined carbohydrates: Candida feeds on sugars and refined carbohydrates, so a diet rich in these foods can provide a favorable environment for its growth.
- Immunosuppression: People with a weakened immune system, such as HIV patients, individuals undergoing chemotherapy, or transplant recipients, are more susceptible to Candida infections.
- Stress: Prolonged stress can affect the immune system and favor Candida overgrowth.
- Use of medical devices: The use of medical devices such as urinary catheters or ventilators can promote the growth of Candida and increase the risk of infections.
It is important to emphasize that Candida albicans can be present in our body without causing any health problems. However, when favorable conditions occur, it can multiply and lead to symptoms and infections. Maintaining a balanced gut microbiota is particularly important. Indeed, when the microbiota is disrupted (dysbiosis), the right conditions for Candida proliferation can arise.
Natural Remedies to Counteract Candida albicans
Some plant-derived substances can be useful in supporting eubiosis. In particular, Clove essential oil (Syzygium aromaticum) and Cinnamon essential oil (Cinnamomum cassia) may help. These two phytocomplexes, in synergy, contribute to maintaining microbiota balance, thereby hindering the excessive growth of Candida albicans.
You can find them in Clovedin, together with Vitamin A, a precious micronutrient for mucosal health, including the vaginal mucosa. In fact, Candida infections can damage it and cause bothersome symptoms.
Reference
- Parambath S, Dao A, Kim HY, Zawahir S, Izquierdo AA, Tacconelli E, Govender N, Oladele R, Colombo A, Sorrell T, Ramon-Pardo P, Fusire T, Gigante V, Sati H, Morrissey CO, Alffenaar JW, Beardsley J. Candida albicans-A systematic review to inform the World Health Organization Fungal Priority Pathogens List. Med Mycol. 2024 Jun 27;62(6):myae045. doi: 10.1093/mmy/myae045. Erratum in: Med Mycol. 2024 Aug 2;62(8):myae074. doi: 10.1093/mmy/myae074. PMID: 38935906; PMCID: PMC11210619.
