What Are the Causes of Systemic Candida?

Candida is a type of microorganism that naturally exists in the digestive tract. When candida is allowed to grow out of control, it can spread to various organs in the body and cause systemic infection. Several factors can contribute to the overgrowth of candida.

Antibiotics

• The overuse of antibiotics can kill off the "friendly" bacteria that resides in the gastrointestinal system, allowing candida to grow unchecked.

Poor Nutrition

• Candida feeds off sugar, as well as foods that break down into sugar in the body, such as refined pasta and white flour. Caffeine and alcohol can also contribute to candida growth.

Prescription Drugs

• The use of prescription drugs such as birth control pills, synthetic estrogen and steroid type drugs can create a hormonal imbalance that disrupts the balance of bacteria in the digestive system.

Ph level

• Toxins in the environment, stress, chlorinated water, antacids and even dental fillings can upset the pH level in the body and contribute to candida overgrowth.

Immune System Deficiencies

• Individuals with a weakened immune system due to HIV, diabetes or other disease are more susceptible to candida overgrowth.