The Gut-Yeast Relation: How Yeast Infections Can Cause Bloating

What is a Yeast Infection?

Yeast infections or candidiasis, usually caused by a yeast ( a fungus ) called Candida, are common problems for many women, often causing discomfort and irritation in the vaginal area. It's time to understand that it can even cause bloating in you.

Understanding the connection is essential because you need to know the root cause of many problems. 

"Patients suffering from Candida-related symptoms often find themselves going from doctor to doctor, including gynaecologists, gastroenterologists, dermatologists, ENTs, their primary care physician, and even chiropractors, with little success in getting to the root of the problem. Doctors' focus on specific organs where Candida may be causing symptoms rather than adopting a more holistic approach can be a reason. This may cause the patients to suffer for years without proper diagnosis and treatment", says Dr. Israa Ismail, Senior Ayurveda Consultant at Nirva.

Yeast Infection Symptoms

Candida has coevolved with humans and is inherent in the gut along with other vital bacteria. They can sometimes cause life-threatening symptoms if they get a chance to leak from the gut to the bloodstream.

Understanding candida infections apart from vaginal ones is essential for your overall health.

When you look at this condition holistically, there are four stages of candida overgrowth:

Stage 1: Gut symptoms

The onset of Candida overgrowth often begins in the gut, as the microbiome becomes unbalanced and the population of good bacteria decreases, leading to an overgrowth of Candida. 

This imbalance can be caused by long-term antibiotic use, extended use of birth control, and a diet that is high in refined sugars and processed carbohydrates, such as wheat flour. 

Symptoms may include;

• Bloating after meals
• Excessive gas, and constipation

Candida patients often rely on over-the-counter antacids or laxatives for relief. They are frequently diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome by gastroenterologists who cannot identify the underlying cause of their symptoms.

Stage 2: Vaginal Symptoms

The Candida overgrowth occurs in the gut and exits the intestinal system through a condition known as Leaky Gut syndrome. Why is it called leaky gut syndrome? In this condition, the bowel's lining becomes more permeable, allowing the toxins produced by the bacteria to enter the bloodstream and affect other body areas like vagina.

The most common symptoms of candida vulvovaginitis or vaginal thrush in women include:

• Pain when urinating
• Soreness
• Redness and swelling of the vulva
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Itching and burning around the vulva and vaginal opening
• Vaginal discharge where its consistency can vary  from watery to thick and chunky

Due to intense discomfort caused by vaginal itching, burning, and discharge, you may even find it hard to sit comfortably.

Stage 3: Brain Fog or Cognitive Impairment 

Brain Fog is one of those most common symptoms if you are infected with Candida. Difficulty in concentrating and remembering daily tasks, which may  leave you feeling less sharp and capable than you used to be is how brain fog affects you.

So how does this happen? When you eat foods rich in sugar while experiencing Candida, your metabolism ferments the sugar into alcohol, making you feel hungover. You may also fail a short-term memory test (if you take one) due to Candida.

Stage 4: Chronic Fatigue

The cause of Chronic fatigue syndrome is unclear. However, long-standing Candida problems are believed to result in mineral and vitamin deficiencies, requiring aggressive Candida treatment with supplements.

Nevertheless, late-stage Candida is not a life-threatening condition. 

With a tailored holistic treatment plan, you can bounce back to life as soon as possible.

Yeast Infection Home Remedies

According to experts, reducing your risk of developing a yeast infection can be as simple as tweaking some of your everyday habits. 

Women can alleviate yeast infection symptoms by making a few lifestyle changes and decreasing their chances of vaginal infection. 

Despite this, many women remain unaware of the strategies they can employ to prevent yeast infections. If you have suffered more than two yeast infections in a year, it may be time to adopt some modifications to lower your risk of developing another one.

1. Reducing Sugar Diet

When you consume a diet high in refined carbohydrates, such as white sugar, white flour, and white rice or alcohol,  you may experience intense vaginal itching, odour, and other classic yeast infection symptoms, as all these foods contain a lot of sugar. 

Though the connection between a sugar-filled diet and a yeast infection is uncertain, there exists one theory that states increased glucose levels in your blood make it easier for the yeast organism to attach to the vaginal cells. High blood sugar levels in your blood may also have an impact on your immune system. Having a weakened immune system increases your susceptibility to yeast infections. 

So how can you lower your risk of developing another yeast infection? Reducing your consumption of sugary foods and beverages is the key.

2. Choose What You Wear Smartly

Did you know that your wardrobe choices can have an impact on your vaginal health? Yes, you heard it right! Clothes that are too tight and made of non-breathable fabrics can create a moist and warm environment in your vaginal area that promotes the growth of yeast. This can increase your risk of developing a yeast infection.

In order to reduce your chances of getting a yeast infection, switch to cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes; this can help you with better air circulation. If you exercise, remember to change out your sweaty clothes as soon as possible. Also, avoid spending long periods in wet bathing suits after swimming. Adapting these tiny changes can help you keep your vaginal area dry and reduce the risk of yeast infections.

3. Sleep Tight, and Sound

Have you ever wondered why a good night's sleep is so important in treating your body with care? This is because achieving the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep per night can benefit your overall health, including your immune system. If you have weak immunity, this causes an imbalance in naturally occurring vaginal acidity, which in turn lowers your vagina's pH level. This may create a favourable environment for vaginal yeast to thrive. T

herefore, prioritising your sleep and creating a sleep-conducive environment can do wonders and help your body fight off potential infections effectively.

4. Lock Away Your Stress

Stress is one of the major causes that can weaken your immune system. A  weakened immune system can make you more susceptible to yeast infections. 

Stress adds to changes in the sound and healthy gut bacteria, adding to the weakened immune system.

Have you ever thought of why it is important to incorporate  techniques like Meditation, yoga, and  exercises into your daily routine? These activities can help you reduce stress and strengthen your immune system. A strong immune system can help you to prevent yeast infections.

5. Watch Your Pills

Does the use of medications worsen yeast infections? Yes, it can.  Oral contraceptives can raise your oestrogen hormone levels, which may contribute to the overgrowth of yeast in the vagina. Taking antibiotics can kill both harmful and beneficial bacteria, which can disrupt the natural balance of your vagina. This also allows yeast to thrive. Medications that contain steroids may weaken your immunity to fight against fungal infections.

Do not hesitate to consult a gynaecologist if you notice any yeast infection symptoms while taking  medications.  Eating yoghurt  or taking a probiotic may also help you prevent yeast infections while taking antibiotics.

Note : This does not mean that you will develop a yeast infection while taking these medications. However, lifestyle changes can help to reduce the number of yeast infections you experience.

Gut Symptoms and Yeast Infections: What Are the Chances?

Even though gastrointestinal symptoms from a yeast infection are rare, there are some physiological changes in the body when there are more chances that you get them.

GI symptoms with yeast infection occur when is an overgrowth of candida in the gut.

Under normal circumstances, Candida fungus is not harmful. But, when it starts to grow out of control, it can lead to candidiasis. Typically, the beneficial bacteria in our body prevent the pvergrowth of Candida. However, if good bacteria levels are disturbed or the immune system is weakened, Candida can multiply excessively.

Do you think Vaginal Yeast Infections can affect your intestines?

Yes! It can. But how? Yeast infections can spread from the vagina to your intestine and disrupt the balance of your gut. This can adversely affect the balance of good bacteria in your gut. Therefore, when you leave yeast infections untreated, they may produce certain symptoms like bloating and diarrhoea.  This, in turn, causes digestive issues and discomfort. 

Heard of Systemic Candidiasis?

Systemic candidiasis is a severe condition that occurs when yeast-causing candida infection enters your bloodstream and spreads throughout the body. This can affect your different organs, such as the heart, lungs, liver, and brain, and cause various symptoms. 

You may experience symptoms like;

• Fever
• Chills
• Low blood pressure
• Skin rash
• Confusion
• Organ failure

This condition can be life-threatening if you have a weak immune system or any underlying medical conditions. An aggressive antifungal treatment can make this condition better, but it may require hospitalisation. Early diagnosis and treatment can help you to prevent complications.

Understanding Candidiasis in the Ayurvedic Way

In Ayurveda, Candida albicans may be called krimi, a parasitic infection requiring treatment. 

Ayurveda recognises three types of yeast infections based on the symptoms:

Vata type: This type of infection occurs in the large intestine and produces symptoms such as gas, bloating, constipation, dry skin, insomnia, itchy ears, and intense fatigue.

Pitta type: This type of infection appears in the liver and blood and may include acne, skin irritations, rashes, irritability, and diarrhoea.

Kapha type: This type of infection appears in the stomach and may include excess mucus, skin disorders, weight gain, chronic fatigue,  and urinary tract infections.

How is Candida Infection Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of candidiasis is made by collecting a sample of blood or infected tissue from the affected area and sending it to a laboratory for testing. 

Doctors often use a combination of  tests like Mannan antigen and anti-mannan antibody, C. albicans germ tube antibody (CAGTA),Polymerase chain reaction (PCR), T2Candida panel, along with DNA-based techniques, to accurately diagnose invasive candidiasis.

Stool culture also allows the experts to identify the type of Candida causing infection, and determine the most effective antifungal treatment.

Medications, Diets and Self-Care : How to Treat Your Vaginal and Gut Candidiasis?

A Holistic approach can treat both vaginal and gut candidiasis effectively. 

• Maintaining vaginal hygiene can help you reduce the spread of infection and prevent its recurrence.
• Avoiding medication overuse can also help to maintain a healthy balance of good bacteria in your gut, contributing to stronger immunity. 
• Identifying the symptoms and treating the infection by addressing any underlying issues can help prevent future infections.
• A combination of medications, dietary changes, and self-care practices can help you attain a happy and healthy vagina.

Medications for vaginal yeast infections include:

• Over-the-counter antifungal creams.
• Suppositories.
• Prescription-strength medicines like fluconazole.

Your healthcare provider may recommend longer-term antifungal medication or a higher dose for recurrent or persistent infections.

Antifungal medications are prescribed for gut candidiasis, but it's essential to address the underlying cause of the Overgrowth.  Probiotics may also be used to restore the balance of the gut microbiome.

Yeast infections, even in localised parts of the body, are the condition of systemic reduction of immune function. The cause of your yeast infection can vary from external hygiene to internal well-being. Monitoring your diet and lifestyle, including stress, is essential. Identify body as a whole to heal your body.

How to Heal the Gut?

Ayurveda identifies any health condition in the body, as derived from the gut. Hence, when taking an Ayurvedic or holistic approach to your health, healing the gut is an important place to start. 

This can be done in many ways, like improving your metabolism, enhancing your digestive and nutrient absorption capacity, etc.

1. Dietary Changes to Stop Gut Dysbiosis

Gut dysbiosis, an imbalance in the gut microbiome, can lead to many health conditions. Suppressing your immune system to cause gastric intestinal inflammation is a part of gut dysbiosis. A diet rich in probiotics can help you balance the microbiota.

2. Avoid High Sugar and Carbs

Candida thrives on sugar, so it is essential to eliminate all forms of sugar from your diet, including refined sugars, high-fructose corn syrup, and artificial sweeteners. You should also avoid foods high in refined carbohydrates, such as white bread, pasta, and baked goods.

3. Cellular Detox - Panchakarma

Ayurvedic panchakarma therapy does more than help you relax. It can eliminate the accumulated toxins in your gut and also at the cellular level. The procedures such as detoxifying purgation, Emesis and enema may help you deeply clean your body. These therapies need strict watch over by Ayurvedic experts.

4. Diet 

A warm, seasonal, fresh diet can help support gut health and prevent dysbiosis. 

• Including spices such as turmeric, ginger, cumin, garlic, cardamom, and cinnamon in meals can also provide additional health benefits. 
• These spices have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help to reduce inflammation in the gut and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
• Also, consuming various fruits and vegetables can provide the body with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health and help prevent yeast overgrowth.

Home Remedies for a Quick Fix of Your Yeast Infection

1. Yoghurts

Unsweetened, unflavored natural yoghurt is a source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that promote health and aid in restoring the balance of bacteria and yeast in the body.

According to a 2023 research review, some probiotics combat specific yeasts that can cause vaginal yeast infections. Although the reviewers identified concerns with several of the studies they reviewed, many individuals report relief from yeast infection symptoms by:

• Consuming yoghurt
• External application to the vulva area around the vagina

2. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a natural antifungal demonstrated to combat the Candida albicans yeast effectively. Raw organic coconut oil is applied topically or taken orally to alleviate symptoms of yeast overgrowth.

When warmed, coconut oil can also be a carrier for more potent antifungal essential oils such as tea tree or oregano.

3. Garlic

Garlic has antifungal and antibiotic properties. 

Recent research suggests that eating garlic does not affect infections caused by yeast in the vagina.

Some have also practised using garlic internally as an alternative to eating it to relieve yeast infections. This involves placing a garlic clove, threaded with a string, into the vagina overnight.

Although no evidence supports this method, it is a low-risk home remedy for yeast infections.

It's important to note that people who have sensitive skin may experience burning sensations and even skin damage from using garlic internally. If the burning sensation worsens, people should discontinue use.

Call for help!

• Persistant abdominal pain can affects your daily activities  with accompanying symptoms such as chest pain, fever, or vomiting.In such conditions may need immediate medical help. 
• If lower abdominal discomfort persists for more than a day, visiting a doctor without delay is essential.
• It's crucial not to ignore symptoms like unexplained weight loss, pain during sexual intercourse, and abnormal vaginal discharge that is bloody. 
• You should also see a doctor if you feel pain or a burning sensation while urinating.

Wrapping it Up

Candidiasis is a common fungal infection that is preventable. This pesky infection can be effectively treated by caring for our bodies and making mindful lifestyle choices. Practising good hygiene, avoiding medication overuse, and making dietary changes can pave the way to a healthy vagina. Following a holistic approach can help you find relief and support your body in the fight against candidiasis. 

Stop considering your body as different individual parts. Healing yourself from the inside is equally important to lead a healthy and happy life.