Candida is a yeast that exists naturally on the body but when it grows out of balance, it can cause symptoms you may overlook. Spot the signs early and how to manage it with help from a nutritionist
Summary
1What is Candida?
Candida is a yeast that lives naturally in your mouth, gut and vagina. If you have a healthy immune system, it doesn’t usually cause any problems.
2What is Candida overgrowth?
Candida overgrowth occurs when our natural balance of Candida changes and you have higher levels of Candida in your body than you usually would.
3When to see a doctor about Candida
It’s a good idea to see a doctor or healthcare professional if you think you may have candida or thrush and are unsure about the next steps.
Always tired no matter how much you sleep? Dealing with bloating that just won’t quit or craving sugar like it’s your job? These everyday annoyances might be more connected than you think. Meet Candida: a naturally occurring yeast that lives in the body. When it gets a little too comfortable and grows out of balance, it can quietly impact both your physical and mental wellbeing1 – often flying under the radar because its symptoms look like so many other things. Though these symptoms can also be common in other digestive concerns or nutrient deficiencies, so it’s a good idea to speak with your GP. They can help rule out other possible causes and make sure you get the right support from the start.
From a nutritional perspective, Candida overgrowth is closely linked to gut health and immune function.2,3 Studies show that diets high in refined sugars and low in fibre, typical of the modern Western diet, are associated with gut microbiome imbalance called dysbiosis, allowing Candida albicans (the most common species) to thrive.4 With helpful insight from H&B nutritionist Molly Arnold, we’ve covered all things Candida.
What is Candida?
Candida is a yeast that lives naturally in your mouth, gut and vagina. If you have a healthy immune system, it doesn’t usually cause any problems – the friendly bacteria in your gut basically help keep your yeast levels under control.2 “Problems can arise when the balance of gut bacteria is disrupted. Factors such as antibiotics, prolonged stress, high sugar intake and weakened immunity can all make it easier for Candida to grow more than usual,” says Molly.5,6
“A healthy gut environment plays an important role in keeping Candida under control”
Research suggests that a diverse gut microbiome plays a protective role by competing with Candida for nutrients, which can help prevent overgrowth. For example, diets rich in plant fibre support this balance by nourishing beneficial bacteria and helping them thrive.7 When people get thrush, it’s caused by the Candida species of fungus, usually Candida Albicans. The majority of healthy people naturally have Candida Albicans living inside their body.8 But if the balance of bacteria changes, for instance, if you become pregnant, are taking a course of antibiotics or are extremely stressed, this can lead to an increase in your Candida levels.9
What is Candida overgrowth?
Candida overgrowth occurs when our natural balance of Candida changes and you have higher levels of Candida in your body than you usually would. Candida overgrowth is also referred to as Candidiasis, a Candida, yeast or fungal infection and thrush.9
Studies show that Candida overgrowth can irritate the lining of the gut, interfering with how well your body absorbs nutrients. This can lead to inflammation in the gut, with symptoms such as low energy, brain fog and digestive issues.10 “A healthy gut environment plays an important role in keeping Candida under control. Beneficial gut bacteria help compete for space and nutrients, which may reduce the likelihood of excessive yeast growth,” says Molly.11,12
Common Candida-related symptoms
Sometimes the yeast can grow out of hand, known as a yeast overgrowth, and can lead to symptoms such as:
- recurring thrush
- urinary tract infections
- digestive problems
- fatigue
- poor nutrition levels
- concentration problems
- strong alcohol or sugar cravings
- white or grey discharge
Some of these symptoms may be linked to inflammation or reduced absorption of important nutrients like B vitamins, iron and magnesium, all of which are essential for energy production and cognitive function.13
What causes Candida overgrowth?
Unfortunately, our modern lifestyles can make it easier for Candida to thrive. Some contributing factors include:
- long-term use of antibiotics can upset the levels of friendly bacteria in your gut, allowing the yeast to grow.14 However, you should always finish your course of antibiotics
- stress dampens your immune system and may prevent it from keeping the yeast in check15
- eating lots of sugary foods may not be beneficial16
- drinking lots of alcohol (specifically for fungal infection of the esophagus)17
- having a health condition that affects your immunity, such as HIV or diabetes18
- taking high doses of steroids for medical reasons19
- being pregnant9
Possible ways to manage Candida
You should see a doctor for Candida (thrush) if it's your first time experiencing symptoms, if symptoms are severe or if they don't improve with over-the-counter treatment. If you think you’re affected, it’s important to tackle it. Not only are the symptoms unpleasant and debilitating, but it's also been linked to ‘leaky gut syndrome’. In terms of managing Candida and supporting your wellness, the main methods are:
“A diet rich in vegetables, whole foods and fibre helps support healthy gut bacteria”
Candidiasis is treated with antifungal medications designed to reduce yeast overgrowth.20 These treatments come in different forms, such as creams, oral gels, tablets or intravenous (IV) therapy.20 The specific medication, dosage and length of treatment are chosen based on the type and severity of the infection, as well as a person’s overall health. Following the treatment plan exactly as prescribed – even if symptoms improve – helps ensure the infection is fully treated and supports lasting recovery.20
Friendly bacteria also play a key role in helping balance out your good and bad levels of gut bacteria again. Examples of good probiotic bacteria include Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. They work by suppressing the growth of Candida, supporting healthy bacteria in the gut and intimate areas, making thrush less likely to come back.21
“Lactobacillus strains have been studied for their ability to support microbial balance,” says Molly.22,23 However, no single supplement or diet has been proven to ‘cure’ Candida, with most evidence supporting a combined approach focused on restoring gut balance and supporting immune health.
There’s a lot of conversation about how food – especially sugar – may influence candida and yeast balance in the body. While some people choose to reduce sugar or follow the candida diet to support their wellbeing, it’s important to know that strong scientific evidence linking sugary foods directly to yeast infections is still limited. Though, regardless of Candida concerns, regularly eating large amounts of sugary foods can affect overall health, so enjoying them in moderation is a kind and supportive choice for your body. To help starve the yeast it’s best to cut down on the foods and drinks it feeds on, including:
- limit sugary foods
- alcohol
- anything fermented, such as yeast extract, blue cheeses or soy sauce
“There isn’t strong evidence to support very strict ‘Candida diets’ that cut out lots of foods. Instead, research suggests it’s more helpful to focus on a balanced, nourishing way of eating,” says Molly. “A diet rich in vegetables, whole foods and fibre helps support healthy gut bacteria, which may play an important role in keeping Candida under control and supporting your immune system. This approach is also easier to maintain long term and supports overall wellbeing, not just gut health.” 24,25,26
How is Candida tested?
Vaginal discharge sample
Yeast infections like vaginal Candidiasis are usually diagnosed by a healthcare provider taking a small sample of vaginal discharge.27 This sample may be examined under a microscope in the clinic or sent to a laboratory for further testing. It’s important to note that finding Candida doesn’t always mean it’s causing symptoms (some people naturally have Candida present without experiencing any discomfort). A healthcare provider will consider both test results and symptoms to decide on the best next steps.27
Oral examination
Candidiasis of the mouth or throat (thrush) is often easy for healthcare providers to diagnose by simply examining the inside of the mouth or throat. In some cases, they may gently take a small sample from the area to confirm the diagnosis.27
Endoscopy
Candidiasis in the esophagus is usually diagnosed by a healthcare provider using an endoscopy. This procedure involves gently examining the digestive tract with a thin tube that has a light and camera. In some cases, a provider may choose to start antifungal treatment without an endoscopy to see whether symptoms improve, helping guide the next steps in care.27
Blood test
If you have too much Candida (invasive candidiasis), your immune system produces three different types of antibodies: IgG, IgA and IgM. The levels of each of these antibodies will show up in a blood test if a Candida overgrowth is currently present or has been recently present in your body.27 Antibody tests are best used as part of a wider clinical assessment rather than a standalone diagnosis.28
When to see a doctor about Candida
It’s a good idea to see a doctor or healthcare professional if you think you may have Candida or thrush and are unsure about the next steps. Seeking medical advice is especially important if any of the following applies to you:
- it’s your first time experiencing symptoms
- if thrush keeps coming back or if treatments haven’t worked (persistent thrush)29
- you’re under 16 or over 60
- you’re pregnant or breastfeeding
- have a weakened immune system – such as from diabetes, HIV or chemotherapy29
- you’re experiencing pain, fever and severe symptoms. You’ll also need to check in with a doctor if they don’t improve after taking antibiotics30
- if thrush is affecting your sexual health, a sexual health clinic can also provide confidential advice, testing and treatment29
Candida FAQs
No. Vaginal yeast infections (such as Candidiasis) aren’t officially considered sexually transmitted, though sexual activity can sometimes play a role in triggering them. The good news is that treatment usually only needs to focus on the person with symptoms – male partners don’t need treatment unless they’re experiencing symptoms too.16
If you’re pregnant, it’s always best to check with your GP or midwife before treating thrush. Thrush during pregnancy is usually treated with antifungal creams or other treatments, which are generally considered suitable during pregnancy when used as advised by a healthcare professional. Although oral antifungal tablets are sometimes used to treat thrush, they aren’t recommended if you’re pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding. If you’re unsure which option is right for you, your GP or midwife can help guide you towards the safest choice for both you and your baby.9
They’re not quite the same, but they’re closely linked. Candida is the name of a type of yeast that naturally lives in the body, usually without causing any problems. There are several types of Candida, but the most common is Candida albicans. Thrush happens when Candida grows out of balance.
Yes, it can. There are a few different ways you can be tested for it by your GP or other medical professionals. Just remember, Candida naturally exists in the body, so testing looks for unusually high levels or immune responses, not just the presence of Candida alone.29
The final say
If you suspect Candida may be affecting you, know that you’re not alone and that support and solutions are available. Understanding what Candida is, how it can show up and what influences it is the first step toward feeling more in control of your health. If symptoms feel persistent, overwhelming or unclear, reaching out to a healthcare professional can offer clarity and reassurance. With the right information, support and care, it’s entirely possible to manage Candida. While you’re here, check out probiotics for women: how can good bacteria support your wellness or what does your pee say about your health?
Disclaimer – This article provides informational advice and is not a substitute for medical care. Curated by experts for accuracy, we take great care to ensure the information is up-to-date and relevant. However, you should always consult your GP or healthcare professional before using supplements or alternative products, particularly if you have medical conditions or are under supervision.
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