Depression and Candida

Depression, once a hidden epidemic has come to the forefront of our society. An abundance of research has emerged that validates depression as a real biological disease, rather than the character defect it was once thought of. Depression produces both physical and mental symptoms. "Depression Hurts" is the slogan for a one of the heavily promoted anti-depressants on the market and this is a very true statement. Some physical symptoms of depression include but are not limited to fatigue, persistent flu-like aches and pains, headaches, cramps, digestive problems and over- or under-eating. You can literally feel depression and it is not just all in your head.

It is estimated that nearly 20 million Americans suffer from clinical depression and women are much more likely to be affected than men. Coincidentally women are much more likely to be affected by another condition called candidiasis, and overgrowth of candida albicans in the body. One of the most common and debilitating symptoms of candidiasis is chronic depression. It is no surprise that a link between candidiasis and depression is being explored by researchers and alternative healthcare practitioners. This is not the say that candidiasis is the cause of depression but it seems to be a contributing factor for many. Genetic factors, nutritional deficiencies, endocrine disturbances and psychological stress and trauma are all contributing factors to depression. These same factors can also play a role in our susceptibility to candida overgrowth. These two disorders seem to go hand in hand.

The most common treatment for depression is a combination of medication and therapy. Medications for depression fall into three classes, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclics and atypical antidepressants. Therapy usually takes the form of the cognitive behavioral type in order to work on changing negative or distorted thinking that may be contributing to the depression. Although both therapy and medication have been extremely effective in treating depression for many sometimes it is not enough.

Additionally if candida overgrowth is the underlying cause of the depression taking a medication is like putting a band aid on the problem but the problem will never help underneath that band aid. Addressing the root cause whenever possible is the most effective way to combat disease. If your depression is accompanied by other symptoms of candidiasis seeking alternative treatments may be warranted. The main component for the treatment of candida overgrowth is the Candida Diet. Following this diet could help you alleviate symptoms of depression.