The most common types of Candida Albicans are those which cause either a vaginal yeast infection in women or oral thrush which can infect anyone including young babies.

In a normal healthy host, candida present in the gut is kept under control by both the body’s immune system and the friendly bacteria (probiotics) that are found in the intestinal tract.

However, problems start to occur when the Candida Albicans is allowed to colonize, multiplying and causing many of the symptoms associated with a candida infection, which range from stomach irritation to more severe even life threatening symptoms.

This can happen due to a number of reasons:

The levels of friendly bacteria in the GI tract have been reduced below a healthy amount often due to taking prescribed or non-prescribed medication for an extended period of time. This then compromises the body’s natural ability to keep the candida albicans from multiplying. If a person has been taking a long course of antibiotics then it is worth keeping a close watch for any yeast infections.

A poor immune system, either through medication or through illness, can allow the candida albicans to thrive and spread. Candida infections are not unusual in HIV patients or in people who have been treated with Chemotherapy. Also a persons lifestyle can impact on their immune system, especially if they have stressful jobs or ongoing stressful personal situations.

Also, a poor diet has been attributed to an increased risk of a candida infection. This is particularly true of diets that are high in sugar.