Candida infections are very common, but most people that have a Candida infection don’t even know it. The symptoms of Candida infections can resemble other conditions. So, people may struggle with a certain symptom without realizing that Candida is the underlying cause.

Candida is a type of yeast that exists naturally in and on the body. It is usually kept under control by beneficial bacteria in the gut. However, when certain factors reduce the number of beneficial bacteria in our gut, Candida is able to grow beyond normal levels and cause an infection.

The most common Candida infection symptoms include:

1. Tiredness and fatigue

Tiredness and fatigue is one of the most common symptoms associated with Candida. When someone has a Candida infection, it can interfere with their digestion and absorption of nutrients. It is common for people with a Candida infection to struggle with nutrient deficiencies, such as magnesium, essential fatty acids, and B vitamins. Additionally, a Candida infection can put a major strain on your immune system. These factors together can lead to fatigue and low energy. 

2. Digestive Issues

The health of your digestive system depends on having the right balance of bacteria in the gut. Beneficial bacteria in our gut play many important roles in digestion, as well as in our immunity and mood. When there is an imbalance in the gut, such as in the case of Candida overgrowth, it can lead to numerous digestive issues, such as gas, nausea, cramps, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.

3. Joint Pain

Joint pain is another common symptom of a Candida infection. Candida can spread to your bloodstream and travel through your body, where it can infect the joints and cause joint pain and swelling. This is most common if your Candida infection is untreated for a long period of time, or if you have a surgery that leaves part of your body more vulnerable to Candida.

4. Intense Sugar Cravings

Having intense cravings for sugar is a common sign of a Candida infection. This is because Candida need sugar in order to live and grow. So, Candida can influence your food cravings and cause you to crave more of the food that sustains them.

5. Sinus Infections

Chronic sinus infections are commonly caused by Candida. A sinus infection can cause uncomfortable symptoms like runny nose, nasal congestion, and headaches. While short-term sinus infections are often caused by bacteria or allergies, chronic sinus infections are almost always a result of a fungal infection. If you have a sinus infection that lasts longer than a month, or if you have a sinus infection that keeps returning, Candidacould be to blame.

How to Get Rid of Candida

In order to get rid of a Candida infection, you need to follow a specific protocol. Candida yeasts are persistent and it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to clear up an infection. To do so requires that you follow an anti-Candida diet like the one outlined by Zuma Nutrition in their Candida Detox Diet Guide.

Diligently following an anti-Candida diet and supplementing with anti-Candida herbs is the best way to ensure success in getting rid of a Candida infection. It is also essential to focus on restoring your gut health after clearing the infection to prevent the infection from recurring. When the environment in your gut is healthy and full of beneficial bacteria, they will prevent Candida from growing out of control.