What is a Yeast Overgrowth?
A yeast overgrowth (or candidiasis) is in reference to a bacterial imbalance down in the gut (or lower intestine). It is actually something that is quite common and easily proliferated by the standard American diet and medical prescriptions used today.
The most common yeast is called Candida Albicans and actually exists in the intestinal tract of every human being. It shares a home there with the healthier microorganisms and bacteria, called probiotics. Health challenges arise when the bacterial balance is thrown off and the candida growth is not kept in check. Usually this is triggered by the overuse or misuse of prescription antibiotics and/or steroids.
If this overdevelopment continues, then it can lead to what’s called a “leaky gut.” The Candida Albicans can actually eat holes through the lining of the lower intestine, allowing toxins to re-enter the bloodstream and wreak havoc in other parts of the body.
The Candida Growth Cycle
Children are naturally born with a leaky gut which exists up until about six months of age. This is why pediatricians will recommend holding off on giving certain foods too early (ie. foods that could introduce potential allergens into their system). Their digestive and detoxification systems are still developing.
Common Symptoms of Yeast Overgrowth (Candidiasis) in Kids:
- Frequent ear infections
- Inability to concentrate
- Allergy symptoms (environmental or food-related)
- Weight gain and/or obesity
- Low energy
- Craving sweets/breads/pasta
- Use of prescribed antibiotics and/or steroids
- frequent infections and/or illness
- Eczema/skin issues
- Food sensitivities
The above list is not exhaustive, and not all symptoms need to be present to have a candida issue. However, if even a handful of symptoms are present in your kids, it is worth taking a closer look.
What’s A Parent To Do?
Certainly, an overgrowth of candida is not something that you just “wait out” or hope that it will go away on it’s own. Candida albicans will only continue to grow out of control if not specifically targeted for a length of time.
We have a specific anti-candida program–put together by a certified nutritionist–that we use with families to help their kids get back in balance. Coincidentally, when the balance in the bacteria is restored, the health symptoms typically subside and go away.
An anti-candida nutritional program is not one that you should attempt on your own. It is most effective when someone with experience can walk alongside you and guide you in what to do next.
If you suspect that your child has an issue with candida, the next step is to contact us right away. We will be able to help guide you so that you see results quickly.