--- title: "Intestinal Candidiasis: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment" entity: "blog" canonical_url: "https://www.drdanwool.com/blog/candida" markdown_url: "https://www.drdanwool.com/llms/blog/candida" lastmod: "2025-04-22T14:25:00.000Z" --- Medically reviewed by [Dr. Dan Wool, NMD](https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdanwool/) Arizona-licensed Naturopathic Physician and Gastroenterology Specialist Updated: November 11, 2025 Summary: - Intestinal Candidiasis Symptoms and Root Causes: Intestinal candidiasis is excessive Candida yeast overgrowth in gut causing bloating, gas, diarrhea, abdominal pain, chronic fatigue, and brain fog. Candida albicans naturally resides in digestive system but multiplies when bacterial balance disrupts. Primary causes include antibiotics killing beneficial gut bacteria, high-sugar and refined carbohydrate diets feeding yeast growth, weakened immune systems from HIV/AIDS or immunosuppressive medications, diabetes with elevated blood glucose, and chronic stress altering microbiota defenses. - Conventional Candida Overgrowth Treatment Options: Antifungal medications include fluconazole for broad-spectrum Candida treatment, nystatin for localized gut infections, and itraconazole administered orally or intravenously based on infection severity. Probiotics restore beneficial bacteria balance through supplements or fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kombucha supporting gut health. Dietary modifications require reducing sugar and refined carbohydrates while increasing fiber intake to promote healthy gut environment and prevent yeast overgrowth recurrence. - Natural Remedies and Herbal Treatments for Candida: Anti-candida diet eliminates sugar and refined carbs while incorporating antifungal foods including garlic with allicin compound, coconut oil rich in caprylic acid disrupting yeast cell membranes, and oregano containing carvacrol and thymol. Herbal supplements like oregano oil, caprylic acid, berberine, apple cider vinegar, and aloe vera provide natural antifungal properties. Probiotic strains Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum maintain healthy gut flora preventing Candida colonization. - Candida Complications Prevention and Lifestyle Changes: Untreated intestinal candidiasis causes invasive bloodstream infections affecting heart, brain, kidneys as life-threatening condition, chronic gastrointestinal symptoms including persistent bloating and diarrhea, systemic infections like endocarditis and meningitis, nutrient malabsorption with vitamin deficiencies. Prevention strategies include balanced low-sugar diet, regular probiotic consumption, good oral hygiene, stress management through meditation and exercise, adequate sleep, avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use, maintaining healthy weight, managing underlying diabetes, and antifungal prophylaxis for immunocompromised individuals. ## What is Intestinal Candidiasis? Intestinal candidiasis is a condition characterized by an overgrowth of a Candida, a native yeast, in the small and large intestines. Candida is a very common type of fungus that naturally resides in the human body, including the gut, skin, mouth, and throat. Under normal circumstances, when you’re healthy, your body's immune system and beneficial bacteria keep Candida levels in check. However, when the balance is disrupted, Candida can multiply excessively, leading to infection [1] [2]. Candida is a genus of yeasts, with Candida albicans being the most common species involved in infections. While Candida is typically harmless in small amounts, an overgrowth can lead to various health issues. Intestinal candidiasis can cause symptoms such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In some cases, it may also contribute to more systemic symptoms like fatigue and brain fog [3]. ## Causes of Intestinal Candidiasis Several factors can contribute to the development of intestinal candidiasis: - Antibiotics can disrupt the balance of gut microbiota by killing beneficial bacteria, allowing Candida to overgrow. This is because antibiotics do not discriminate between harmful and beneficial bacteria, leading to an imbalance in the gut flora. - A diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates can promote Candida growth3. Candida thrives on sugar, and a diet rich in sugary foods can create an environment conducive to its overgrowth. - A weakened immune system caused by conditions such as HIV/AIDS, cancer treatments, immunosuppressive medications, or any other reasons, makes it easier for Candida to proliferate. When your immune system is not at its full capacity it’s harder to keep Candida levels in check. - Diabetes and high blood sugar levels can create an environment conducive to Candida growth. People with diabetes are more susceptible to Candida infections due to elevated glucose levels in the blood and tissues. - Stress , whether chronic or in excess over some time, can impact the immune system and gut health, potentially leading to Candida overgrowth. Stress can alter the gut microbiota and weaken the body's defenses against infections. Other factors that may contribute to intestinal candidiasis include hormonal changes (such as those occurring during pregnancy), the use of oral contraceptives, and certain medical conditions that affect gut motility [4]. ## Conventional Treatment Options for Intestinal Candidiasis Intestinal candidiasis is traditionally treated with antifungal medications. The severity of the infection and the patient's overall health will determine the choice of medication and duration of treatment [5]: - Antifungal medications include fluconazole, nystatin, and itraconazole. Depending on the severity of the infection, these medications can be administered orally or intravenously. Fluconazole is often used for its broad-spectrum activity against Candida species, while nystatin is typically used for localized infections in the gut. - Probiotics can help restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut, potentially preventing Candida overgrowth. Probiotic supplements or foods rich in probiotics, such as yogurt, kefir, kombucha, and others, are generally beneficial for gut health and can help as part of a nutritious and balanced diet. - Dietary changes, such as reducing sugar and refined carbohydrates, can help prevent Candida overgrowth. A diet low in sugar and high in fiber can promote a healthy gut environment and reduce the risk of candidiasis. In some cases, your primary care provider may recommend a combination of antifungal medications and probiotics to achieve better results. It's important to follow the prescribed treatment plan and complete the full course of medication to ensure the infection is fully eradicated. ## Natural Treatment Options for Intestinal Candidiasis Natural treatment options for intestinal candidiasis focus on dietary changes, herbal supplements, and lifestyle modifications. There is an overlap with some of the traditional methods: - Dietary changes such as avoiding sugar and refined carbohydrates can help control Candida growth. Incorporating antifungal foods like garlic, coconut oil, and oregano can also be beneficial [6] [7]. Garlic contains a compound called allicin which has natural antifungal properties, while coconut oil is rich in caprylic acid, which can help combat Candida. - Herbal Supplements like oregano oil, caprylic acid, and berberine, have antifungal properties and could help prevent candidiasis. Oregano oil contains carvacrol and thymol, which have potent antifungal properties. Caprylic acid, found in coconut oil, can help disrupt Candida's cell membranes, leading to its destruction. - Probiotic supplements can help restore the balance of gut microbiota, supporting the body's natural defenses against Candida. For example, Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum can help maintain a healthy gut environment. - Lifestyle Changes - to support overall health and help prevent Candida overgrowth, reduce stress, get adequate sleep, and maintain good hygiene [8]. Yoga, mindfulness techniques, meditation, and regular exercise can also help strengthen the immune system and improve gut health. Other natural remedies that may be beneficial include apple cider vinegar, which has antifungal properties, and aloe vera, which can soothe the digestive tract and support gut health. ## Potential Complications with Intestinal Candidiasis You should address intestinal candidiasis because If left untreated, it can lead to several complications, which can seriously damage your health or even become life-threatening: - Invasive candidiasis [9] is a serious condition in which the infection spreads beyond the intestines to other parts of the body, including the bloodstream. It can affect vital organs such as the heart, brain, and kidneys and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly by a health professional. - Gastrointestinal Issues can become persistent if you develop chronic intestinal candidiasis. It can lead to symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea which can significantly impact your quality of life and may require ongoing management. - Systemic Infections happen In severe cases when Candida can enter the bloodstream and spread to other organs. These infections can be life-threatening and can lead to complications such as endocarditis (infection of the heart valves), meningitis (infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord), and septicemia (blood poisoning). Other potential complications of untreated intestinal candidiasis include malabsorption of nutrients, leading to deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals, and increased susceptibility to other infections due to a weakened immune system [10]. ## Preventing Intestinal Candidiasis Intestinal candidiasis can be prevented with a few proactive measures to lead a healthy lifestyle. Here are the most common areas to focus on: - Eat a balanced diet low in sugar and refined carbohydrates. A diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can support gut health and reduce the risk of Candida overgrowth. - Consume probiotic-rich foods regularly or take supplements to support a healthy gut microbiota. Foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi are excellent sources of probiotics. They’re also tasty and will help you maintain a healthy weight and contribute to your overall well-being. - Practice good hygiene , including oral hygiene, to prevent Candida infections which can be very persistent. Regular handwashing, brushing and flossing teeth, and maintaining clean living environments can reduce the risk of infection. - Reduce stress through relaxation, exercise, and adequate sleep. This will support overall health and keep your immune system functioning well. Deep breathing exercises, mindfulness meditation, and regular physical activity can strengthen the immune system and make you feel much better overall. - Consult a medical professional if you are in a higher-risk group, such as those with weakened immune systems. Healthcare providers may prescribe antifungal prophylaxis to prevent infection. Antifungal prophylaxis involves taking antifungal medications as a preventive measure to reduce the risk of Candida overgrowth. Other preventive measures include avoiding unnecessary use of antibiotics, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing underlying health conditions such as diabetes [12]. ## Frequently Asked Questions about Intestinal Candidiasis ### What causes intestinal candida overgrowth? Antibiotics kill beneficial gut bacteria, allowing candida yeast to multiply. High-sugar diets feed candida growth. Weakened immunity from diabetes, medications, or chronic stress enables overgrowth. Hormonal changes and elevated blood sugar also create favorable conditions for intestinal candidiasis, causing bloating, gas, diarrhea, and fatigue. ### Can I treat candida overgrowth naturally without prescription medications? Yes. Dietary changes and supplements also are helpful for long term relief. Eliminate sugar and refined carbs while adding antifungal foods like garlic, coconut oil, and oregano. Take probiotics (Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium), oregano oil, caprylic acid, or berberine. Manage stress through yoga and adequate sleep to support immunity and gut balance. ### How do I prevent intestinal candida from coming back? Maintain a low-sugar, high-fiber diet with probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut. Practice good hygiene, manage stress through relaxation techniques, and avoid unnecessary antibiotics. Control underlying conditions like diabetes. Scottsdale naturopathic doctors can create personalized prevention plans for lasting gut health. ## The Bottom Line Intestinal candidiasis is a condition caused by an overgrowth of Candida yeast in the intestines. The factors that cause it are, amongst others, antibiotic use, a high-sugar diet, a weakened immune system, and chronic stress. Conventional treatments include antifungal medications and probiotics, while natural treatments focus on dietary changes, herbal supplements, and lifestyle modifications. Preventing intestinal candidiasis involves maintaining a healthy diet, practicing good hygiene, managing stress, and, in some cases, using antifungal prophylaxis. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and maintain overall health. About the Author ## Dr. Dan Wool, NMD Dr. Dan Wool is a naturopathic doctor who specializes in gastroenterology, hormones and men's health in Scottsdale, Arizona. [Set up a free 15-minute discovery call with Dr. Wool today! ](https://drdanwool.com/booking) [Read more about Dr. Wool's Gut Health Journey](/about) ## References: [[1] Intestinal Candidiasis: Symptoms, causes, treatments, and your questions answered. Gabrielle Fundaro, PhD. October 12, 2024.](https://examine.com/conditions/intestinal-candidiasis) [[2] Candidiasis Fungal Infection: Causes & Treatment. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23198-candidiasis](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23198-candidiasis) [[3] 6 Symptoms of Candida Overgrowth (Plus How to Get Rid of It). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/candida-symptoms-treatment](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/candida-symptoms-treatment) [[4] Gastrointestinal Candidiasis: Signs, Causes, And Treatment. Medicover Hospitals. https://www.medicoverhospitals.in/diseases/](https://www.medicoverhospitals.in/diseases/)