Hello, Everyone. I have been away for quite some time. I went to a functional medicine doctor (Dr. Mayfield out of Edina, MN) who is WONDERFUL! I did a series of allergy tests and a urine test. My results showed----no surprise---allergy to gluten and milk (casein) and the worst of all for me was yeast. This could explain why I wasn't getting better in eating my yummy Udi's bread---still had yeast. My bathroom habits are almost completely better. I haven't had a bout of D since I went to Dr. Mayfield. :)
My urine test showed I had a candida problem. So he put me on several supplements to knock the candida out. Candida can be tricky, I guess, so I was on 3 different ones just for that. The entire time I was on this plan, things were great. Previous bladder issues (irritation, tenderness) went away. I was on those for 8 weeks. I've been doing great so he had me go off of them. At first, it was fine, but now my bladder issues have returned with a vengeance! So I decided to research Candida a bit and I am suspecting that may be the culprit to all my issues.
Wondering how many others with this (MC) have issues with candida? It can be tough to diagnose since the symptom list is so incredibly long. With all your collective knowledge, I am guessing this was something someone has looked into? Upon researching candida, I often come across places that say people with Candida often also are diagnosed with IBS. Which makes me wonder.....
Melanie
Candida?
Moderators: Rosie, Stanz, Jean, CAMary, moremuscle, JFR, Dee, xet, Peggy, Matthew, Gabes-Apg, grannyh, Gloria, Mars, starfire, Polly, Joefnh
Hi Melanie,
Welcome back. Candida roots can force their way through the tight junctions in the intestines and force them to remain open. IOW, candida causes leaky gut syndrome. Yes, it is somewhat common in conjunction with MC, and quite a few members here have had problems with it.
IMO, anyone who tests positive to a yeast sensitivity test (IOW, anyone who produces antibodies to yeast) has a Candida overgrowth problem. The reason I believe that is because so far, everyone here who has tested positive to a yeast test at EnteroLab, has been able to tolerate yeast, after they get their MC symptoms under control (but not before).
If they were truly sensitive to yeast (i.e., if they produced antibodies to yeast, in the same way that we produce antibodies to gluten, for example), then they would always be sensitive to it, they wouldn't just be sensitive to it during an MC flare. Therefore, my opinion is that a positive bakers yeast antibody test result is evidence of a Candida overgrowth, and as I said, once the MC is under control (and the Candida overgrowth controlled), bakers yeast is no longer a problem.
"IBS" is the diagnosis when a doctor doesn't have the foggiest idea what is actually wrong. So it's not surprising that Candida would often be involved with an "IBS" diagnosis, since most doctors don't know how to diagnose a Candida overgrowth, either.
If you have problems with recurring UTIs, try taking D-mannose, either as a preventative (it's much more effective than cranberry juice), or at the first signs of a UTI. Many members here swear by it.
Tex
Welcome back. Candida roots can force their way through the tight junctions in the intestines and force them to remain open. IOW, candida causes leaky gut syndrome. Yes, it is somewhat common in conjunction with MC, and quite a few members here have had problems with it.
IMO, anyone who tests positive to a yeast sensitivity test (IOW, anyone who produces antibodies to yeast) has a Candida overgrowth problem. The reason I believe that is because so far, everyone here who has tested positive to a yeast test at EnteroLab, has been able to tolerate yeast, after they get their MC symptoms under control (but not before).
If they were truly sensitive to yeast (i.e., if they produced antibodies to yeast, in the same way that we produce antibodies to gluten, for example), then they would always be sensitive to it, they wouldn't just be sensitive to it during an MC flare. Therefore, my opinion is that a positive bakers yeast antibody test result is evidence of a Candida overgrowth, and as I said, once the MC is under control (and the Candida overgrowth controlled), bakers yeast is no longer a problem.
"IBS" is the diagnosis when a doctor doesn't have the foggiest idea what is actually wrong. So it's not surprising that Candida would often be involved with an "IBS" diagnosis, since most doctors don't know how to diagnose a Candida overgrowth, either.
If you have problems with recurring UTIs, try taking D-mannose, either as a preventative (it's much more effective than cranberry juice), or at the first signs of a UTI. Many members here swear by it.
Tex
It is suspected that some of the hardest material known to science can be found in the skulls of GI specialists who insist that diet has nothing to do with the treatment of microscopic colitis.
What is effective for treating a recurring Candida problem? I have had scopes where I had oesophageal candida and also am sensitive to bakers yeast and do really well on anti-fungal drugs but can't keep getting prescribed them. I want to know a good protocol and supplement for dealing with candida which I think is a big problem with my food allergies
Thanks
Thanks
Hi Al,
I'm not sure what most doctors would recommend in that situation, but the simplest, surest way to control yeast is by eliminating sugars/carbs from the diet. Yeast thrives on sugar, and dies without it.
Tex
I'm not sure what most doctors would recommend in that situation, but the simplest, surest way to control yeast is by eliminating sugars/carbs from the diet. Yeast thrives on sugar, and dies without it.
Tex
It is suspected that some of the hardest material known to science can be found in the skulls of GI specialists who insist that diet has nothing to do with the treatment of microscopic colitis.
I saw a doctor for a while who practiced functional medicine and did testing for food sensitivities via a blood test. That was my first step in the right direction, although it wasn't accurate enough because I still had D. Yeast was on my list to avoid. I believe I had candida issues which have resolved. I suffered from horrible cravings while starting the GF diet. It was a small step when I was first learning about diet. I did not find relief until I completely eliminated sugars & yeast from my diet. For me, at least, it was a long process. I used to eat dessert first so I could have room for my sweets before eating lunch. Dessert could be literally 6-8 cookies at one sitting. If I was full then I'd skip the meal. At that time I didn't have a sense of ever feeling full, I was like a bottomless pit for sugar and processed foods.
Best of luck to you!
Best of luck to you!
Hmmmmmm. You sound like me, 15 or 20 years ago.DebE wrote:At that time I didn't have a sense of ever feeling full, I was like a bottomless pit for sugar and processed foods.
Tex
It is suspected that some of the hardest material known to science can be found in the skulls of GI specialists who insist that diet has nothing to do with the treatment of microscopic colitis.
Hi, Twenty five years years ago, breakfast was a bowl of shredded wheat, with a banana and skim milk. Then, a couple of donuts with a sugar coating or frosting. Afternoon snack, four to six chocolate chip cookies with a glass of skim milk. I always wondered why I would pain in the G.I tract after eating the shredded wheat. The cookies and milk stop when after one day the bloating and pain was so bad I almost drove myself to the hospital. I used to kept the Candida bacteria well fed. Jon
Nice to hear from you Melanie! Candida can be a big problem. Many years ago when all the doctors were trying to figure our my ( autoimmune) vaginitis, yeast was a suspected culprit. They got so desperate, they put me on a weekly dose of fluconazole for months! Did anything change? No. And I still got this damn disease years later! I still have the prescription and could get it filled, but I'm not so sure I ever had the problem. So, what supplements were you taking Melanie that helped you so much?
Leah
Leah
Yes, Melanie, do tell! I have yeast problems too, and try to stay away from sugar, and grains too really. Saccharomyces Boulardii is a preventative or competitive yeast that can be helpful to eat away the bad yeast. I usually take it daily, but I am out right now. I know some functional medicine docs who recommend it. Susie
I am sensitive to the yeast in wine, cider, champagne, and kombucha (instant headache and flushing). I also tested positive for yeast on the Enterolab test a few years ago. But, I had a Complete Stool Analysis (Genova Labs) last year which indicated no overgrowth of yeast and good bacteria balance. Is it possible to be yeast intolerant without having candida issues too?
I bought Saccharomyces Boulardii by Jarrow and was taking it with no ill effects, but when I figured out it was a yeast, I stopped. Should I take it again??
I bought Saccharomyces Boulardii by Jarrow and was taking it with no ill effects, but when I figured out it was a yeast, I stopped. Should I take it again??
Zizzle,
I tested positive for yeast on the Enterolab test and avoided yeast for a few months afterward. After that, I began eating yeast bread without any reaction. I tested non-reactive on the MRT test to Candida Albicans, whatever that means. I haven't had any yeast products for over a year now and don't notice any difference in my symptoms.
My last yeast infection was 20 years ago. I don't think I have candida issues. You may not, either.
Gloria
I tested positive for yeast on the Enterolab test and avoided yeast for a few months afterward. After that, I began eating yeast bread without any reaction. I tested non-reactive on the MRT test to Candida Albicans, whatever that means. I haven't had any yeast products for over a year now and don't notice any difference in my symptoms.
My last yeast infection was 20 years ago. I don't think I have candida issues. You may not, either.
Gloria
You never know what you can do until you have to do it.
Wow, okay so VERY sorry for not getting back to anyone! The supplements I was on was Lauricidin (which is a monolaurin supplement made from the lauric acid found in coconut), Metagenics Candibactin-BR, and ADP Oil of Oregano. I was also on Metagenics Endefin to help heal my gut. As well as a few others to fight inflammation. However those 3 are specifically for killing the Candida.
I did another round of those supplements and I've been off them for about a month. My bladder issues have been better. Thanks Tex for the D-Mannose recommendation. That is actually in the Endefin I was taking. Maybe that's what helped so much in that area.
I have now eliminated gluten, dairy, corn and soy. And I've been careful to limit the foods that showed a minor reaction. And everything had been fine until a few days ago. Now my rash is back and the gurgling in my stomach started up again. So frustrating considering I've been true to my diet. I NEVER cheat (on purpose anyway). Although I often have dreams of eating pizza and bread! lol I must really miss those foods :)
So now, I'm wondering if I just need to stay on those supplements to keep the candida under control or if I'm developing more allergies. Tex, I know you've said that the body will be fine for awhile once you remove the major culprit and then will act up again once it moves on to the next offending food. But how many things can I possibly be allergic to? And will I just continue having to eliminate foods one by one?? This is maddening!
The gurgly tummy terrifies me since it's a downward spiral back to constant D once that starts up. I guess I should consider going back to Dr. Mayfield. I hate how expensive it gets! Again, so sorry that I posted this and then completely forgot about it. I need to check the "Notify me when a reply is posted" box. :)
I did another round of those supplements and I've been off them for about a month. My bladder issues have been better. Thanks Tex for the D-Mannose recommendation. That is actually in the Endefin I was taking. Maybe that's what helped so much in that area.
I have now eliminated gluten, dairy, corn and soy. And I've been careful to limit the foods that showed a minor reaction. And everything had been fine until a few days ago. Now my rash is back and the gurgling in my stomach started up again. So frustrating considering I've been true to my diet. I NEVER cheat (on purpose anyway). Although I often have dreams of eating pizza and bread! lol I must really miss those foods :)
So now, I'm wondering if I just need to stay on those supplements to keep the candida under control or if I'm developing more allergies. Tex, I know you've said that the body will be fine for awhile once you remove the major culprit and then will act up again once it moves on to the next offending food. But how many things can I possibly be allergic to? And will I just continue having to eliminate foods one by one?? This is maddening!
The gurgly tummy terrifies me since it's a downward spiral back to constant D once that starts up. I guess I should consider going back to Dr. Mayfield. I hate how expensive it gets! Again, so sorry that I posted this and then completely forgot about it. I need to check the "Notify me when a reply is posted" box. :)
Hi Melanie,
I'm sorry to see that you're having suspicious symptoms after making such good progress. While it's often true that a return of symptoms can be an indication of another food sensitivity, in some cases (I've had this happen to me, for example) it can be a sign of cross-contamination with gluten, or one of the other foods that we are avoiding.
About a year and a half ago, when I began to have suspicious symptoms, I ordered an EnteroLab test and discovered that my diet was apparently cross-contaminated with gluten, because my anti-gliadin antibodies were high enough to indicate that I had been getting at least traces of gluten on a regular basis. Some of us are more sensitive to trace amounts than others, and sometimes it can take a long time for (repeated) tiny amounts to trigger a reaction. I blamed it on the presence of wheat flour in the kitchen (used by others), and after making changes, my symptoms faded away.
Another possibility is eggs. We have discovered that more of us are sensitive to eggs than we originally realized.
Here's something else to consider. It seems that especially for those of us who have been reacting for a significant length of time, we have what is known as Mast Cell Activation Disorder (MCAD). This means that our mast cells have become hypersensitive, and they tend to degranulate for no apparent reason. When mast cells degranulate, they release various types of inflammatory modulators, but the main one is histamine. When this happens, many of us notice classic allergy symptoms after eating a food to which we might be sensitive (or foods that are high in histamine content). IOW, we may notice a runny nose, or watery eyes, or throat congestion, itching of the lips, or itching elsewhere. In some cases the symptoms may be obvious, while in others they may be subtle, and easily overlooked. In more severe cases a rash can develop, and this suggests to me that you may have mast cell issues.
The good news is that most of us in that situation have been able to control not only our allergy symptoms, but our GI symptoms as well, by taking an OTC H1 antihistamine. In cases where an H1 antihistamine doesn't resolve the symptoms, some members have found that an H2 antihistamine, or an H2 antihistamine in addition to an H1 antihistame may resolve the symptoms. Some members have found that antihistamines seem to work almost as well as Entocort for relieving their GI symptoms.
If you are unfamiliar with mast cell issues, you can read more about them here. Please don't expect your doctor to be aware of this, though, because this treatment (resolving MC symptoms by taking an antihistamine) seems to be exclusive to the members of this board, based on our experiences.
I hope that some of these suggestions are helpful.
Tex
I'm sorry to see that you're having suspicious symptoms after making such good progress. While it's often true that a return of symptoms can be an indication of another food sensitivity, in some cases (I've had this happen to me, for example) it can be a sign of cross-contamination with gluten, or one of the other foods that we are avoiding.
About a year and a half ago, when I began to have suspicious symptoms, I ordered an EnteroLab test and discovered that my diet was apparently cross-contaminated with gluten, because my anti-gliadin antibodies were high enough to indicate that I had been getting at least traces of gluten on a regular basis. Some of us are more sensitive to trace amounts than others, and sometimes it can take a long time for (repeated) tiny amounts to trigger a reaction. I blamed it on the presence of wheat flour in the kitchen (used by others), and after making changes, my symptoms faded away.
Another possibility is eggs. We have discovered that more of us are sensitive to eggs than we originally realized.
Here's something else to consider. It seems that especially for those of us who have been reacting for a significant length of time, we have what is known as Mast Cell Activation Disorder (MCAD). This means that our mast cells have become hypersensitive, and they tend to degranulate for no apparent reason. When mast cells degranulate, they release various types of inflammatory modulators, but the main one is histamine. When this happens, many of us notice classic allergy symptoms after eating a food to which we might be sensitive (or foods that are high in histamine content). IOW, we may notice a runny nose, or watery eyes, or throat congestion, itching of the lips, or itching elsewhere. In some cases the symptoms may be obvious, while in others they may be subtle, and easily overlooked. In more severe cases a rash can develop, and this suggests to me that you may have mast cell issues.
The good news is that most of us in that situation have been able to control not only our allergy symptoms, but our GI symptoms as well, by taking an OTC H1 antihistamine. In cases where an H1 antihistamine doesn't resolve the symptoms, some members have found that an H2 antihistamine, or an H2 antihistamine in addition to an H1 antihistame may resolve the symptoms. Some members have found that antihistamines seem to work almost as well as Entocort for relieving their GI symptoms.
If you are unfamiliar with mast cell issues, you can read more about them here. Please don't expect your doctor to be aware of this, though, because this treatment (resolving MC symptoms by taking an antihistamine) seems to be exclusive to the members of this board, based on our experiences.
I hope that some of these suggestions are helpful.
Tex
It is suspected that some of the hardest material known to science can be found in the skulls of GI specialists who insist that diet has nothing to do with the treatment of microscopic colitis.
I used to have chronic Candida problems both vaginaly and systemic. I did Candida diets and used supplements and frequently even did fulconozal to resolve the problem with out success. It wasn't until my homeopath treated both myself AND my husband that I found resolution. It seemes that he was infected and continued to pass it back and fourth to me. Since then I always test negative. I did test positive to bakers yeast on Enterolabs but do not test positive on stool tests and homeopathic testing. Good luck, my DH hated the candida treatment and diet!!
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I took the one less traveled by and that has made all the difference.
Robert Frost
Robert Frost
Hi KD, I read the book " The Yeast Connection ". One of the symptoms mentioned is " jock itch". Recently when looking up Candida online research showed that it can be passed back and forth in a relationship. I have not been playing sports for many years but still go through periods of itching. I found one probiotic that has different strains and is effective in removing the Candida fungus. It is called "Threelac". What did you use to remove the fungus? Jon