Healthy, anti-inflammatory gut bacteria is actually key to averting the start of cancer
by: Daniel Barker
gut bacteria, cancer prevention, probiotics
(DrEddyClinic News) A number of studies have indicated that the "good" bacteria living in our intestines http://www.nutritionalanarchy.com/2014/08/11/what-is-going-on-in-your-gut-your-second-brain-bacteria-and-your-health/ play an important role in managing obesity http://slender.news/ and preventing disease, and new research has found that gut bacteria also helps in preventing cancer http://www.preventcancer.news/.
The latest study, conducted by researchers at the University of California, showed that the anti-inflammatory properties associated with certain types of gut bacteria http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=113&t=33243 actually slow down or stop the development of certain types of cancer.
These findings may lead to cancer prevention treatments based on the use of probiotics that regulate the amount of anti-inflammatory bacteria in the intestinal tract.
As reported by Science Daily:
"Ultimately, doctors might be able to reduce a person's risk for cancer by analyzing the levels and types of intestinal bacteria in the body, and then prescribing probiotics to replace or bolster the amount of bacteria with anti-inflammatory properties, said Robert Schiestl, professor of pathology, environmental health sciences and radiation oncology at UCLA and the study's senior author."
According to Schiestl, probiotic treatment is "not invasive and rather easy to do."
The role of 'good' gut bacteria
Our bodies contain trillions of bacteria cells, and our gut bacteria evolved over millions of years into what are termed "good" and "bad" types; the good bacteria prevent inflammation, the bad bacteria promote it.
The research team isolated and tested the most abundant strain of beneficial gut bacteria http://dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=33478 – Lactobacillus johnsonii 456:
"In the UCLA study the bacterium reduced gene damage and significantly reduced inflammation -- a critical goal because inflammation plays a key role in many diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, heart disease, arthritis and lupus, and in the aging process http://www.longevity.news/.
"Previous research led by Schiestl presented the first evidence of a relationship between intestinal microbiota and the onset of lymphoma, a cancer that originates in the immune system. The new study explains how this microbiota might delay the onset of cancer http://dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewforum.php?f=15, and suggests that probiotic supplements could help keep cancer from forming."
Both studies used mice with mutations that make them susceptible to a disorder that typically leads to the development of leukemia, lymphomas and other types of cancer. The intestines of the mice that received the beneficial bacteria http://dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=35248 produced cancer-preventing metabolites. These mice also showed improved metabolism, which may also help lower cancer risk.
Adding natural probiotics to your diet
There are a number of readily available foods with probiotic properties, making it easy to start adding "friendly" bacteria to your diet. The benefits are impressive: cancer prevention http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=116&t=35810, stronger immunity to numerous diseases, better digestion, and even weight loss!
Yogurt has long been known for its probiotic properties, but it's not the only dairy product containing beneficial bacteria. Kefir, made with goat's milk and fermented kefir grain, is also an excellent probiotic. Be sure to avoid the sugary, processed versions of these foods, and buy local, organic products http://www.organicfarming.news/ whenever possible. You can also easily make your own yogurt at home using organic ingredients.
Sauerkraut and other fermented foods such as kimchi, miso, tempeh and kombucha tea are also good sources of probiotics and beneficial nutrients.
Microalgae such as spirulina http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=33969 and chlorella http://dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=27580 have probiotic effects that increase the amount of friendly bacteria in the gut.
Even dark chocolate has probiotic properties, so there are plenty of delicious reasons to begin adding beneficial bacteria to your body's digestive system.
Natural medicine was right all along
It's encouraging to see research that acknowledges the role of the body's own natural systems in healing and disease prevention. If modern medicine begins to incorporate holistic principles in treating cancer, obesity and other diseases http://www.naturalmedicine.news/ – instead of relying on dangerous synthetic pharmaceuticals – we will benefit greatly as a society.
These recent findings show what natural medicine proponents have known all along: that diet is one of the main keys to cancer prevention and maintaining good health.
Sources:
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/04/160413151108.htm
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-3538542/Could-PROBIOTICS-ward-cancer-Increasing-levels-good-bacteria-intestines-slows-stops-disease-developing.html
http://www.top10grocerysecrets.com/2015-09-22-top-10-probiotic-rich-foods-to-improve-your-life.html
http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=113&t=33243
What Are Phytochemicals? Discovering Their Health Benefits
(DrEddyClinic News) Study[1] after study[2] after study[3] has shown that a diet high in fruits and vegetables is especially beneficial to human health and can even reduce the risk of many serious health conditions.[4, 5] Phytochemicals may be one of the reasons why.
Phytochemicals are chemical compounds produced by plants. They are commonly found in fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, and grains. Phytochemicals are frequently confused with phytonutrients. Whereas phytochemicals include plant compounds that are beneficial as well as those that are detrimental, phytonutrients specifically refers to compounds that have a positive effect. In other words, all phytonutrients are phytochemicals, but not all phytochemicals are phytonutrients.
The distinction between phytochemicals and phytonutrients is an important one, as not all phytochemicals are beneficial. Technically, cocaine, codeine, oxycodone, and nicotine are all phytochemicals. Even ricin, one of the most deadly and potent poisons in the world, is a phytochemical.[6] This doesn’t mean that all phytochemicals are bad, quite the opposite. Some phytochemicals offer incredible health benefits.[7]
Types of Phytochemicals
There are thousands of different phytochemicals. Here are a few that are of particular interest from a dietary perspective.
Carotenoids
Carotenoids are plant pigments http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=34077 responsible for the yellow, orange, and red color of many fruits and vegetables, including red peppers, papayas, paprika, tomatoes, and watermelon. There are more than 750 types of carotenoids, the one you’re probably most familiar with is beta-carotene. Beta-carotene gives carrots, pumpkins, and sweet potatoes their rich orange pigmentation. Beta-carotene also offers a number of health benefits; the human body even converts it into vitamin A http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=34718. Other carotenoids include alpha-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, lutein, zeaxanthin, and lycopene.[8]
Carotenoids are strong antioxidants http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=32801.[9] Antioxidants can help reduce the oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Epidemiological studies have shown a link between dietary intake of carotenoids and a reduced risk of many diseases.[8]
Carotenoids are why carrots are credited as being good for the eyes. One of the reasons eyesight gets worse with age is because absorbing short-wave blue light (tablets, smartphones, and televisions are a major source of short-wave blue light) causes oxidative damage. Lutein and zeaxanthin filter blue light and protect the eyes like tiny, internal sunglasses.[10, 11]
Polyphenols
Polyphenols are the largest group of phytochemicals http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=18&t=33995 with over 8000 identified compounds.[12] Like carotenoids, polyphenols are powerful antioxidants. Polyphenols can be split into several subgroups, including flavonoids and lignans.
Flavonoids
Flavonoids are a subgroup of polyphenols, and a large family of phytonutrients themselves. There are over 4000 individual flavonoids and several subclasses of flavonoids, including anthocyanins, flavonols, flavanols, flavanones, flavones, and isoflavones.[12]
Of these, flavonols are the most common in the human diet.[13] They’re found in apples, apricots, beans, broccoli, cherry tomatoes, chives, cranberries, kale, leeks, pears, onions, red grapes, sweet cherries, and white currants.
The similarly named flavanols (not to be confused with the previously mentioned flavonols—note the a and the o) are another subgroup of flavonoids. To avoid obvious confusion, flavanols are sometimes referred to by their less elegant name flavan-3-ols. They can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and lower blood pressure.[14] Dark chocolate is an excellent source of flavanols.
Anthocyanins
Anthocyanins are plant pigments.
Like carotenoids, anthocyanins are plant pigments. They are responsible for the rich reds, blues, and purples found in fruits and vegetables. High concentrations of anthocyanins are found in blueberries, cranberries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, cherries, eggplants, grapes, red cabbage, and red apples.
Anthocyanin-rich plants have been used in folk medicine for centuries and we’re just now rediscovering their benefits. Anthocyanins are strong antioxidants that can help protect the liver, improve eyesight, reduce blood pressure, and even reduce the risk of many serious diseases.[15]
Lignans
Lignans are another type of polyphenol. They’re found in seeds, grains, legumes, fruits, berries, and veggies. Flaxseeds are the richest dietary source of lignans and crushed or milled flaxseed is the most bioavailable source.[16] A diet heavy in lignan-rich food seems to have beneficial, protective effects on the body. Animal studies have found that lignans may have anticarcinogenic effects.[17]
Indole-3-carbinol
Indole-3-carbinol (I3C) is a phytonutrient that’s highly concentrated in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, collard greens, kale, and cabbage.[18] A diet high in cruciferous vegetables has long been associated with a lower risk of several types of cancer.[19] I3C may be the mechanism behind this defense. Animal tests have found that I3C supports normal cell development and protects against DNA damage.[20]
Isoflavones
Isoflavones are phytoestrogens—plant compounds that mimic the effects of estrogen in the human body. Soybeans are an especially rich source of isoflavones sometimes referred to as soy isoflavones.[21]
Because they mimic the effects of estrogen, isoflavones can cause hormonal disruptions http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=122&t=33763 in both men and women. They can bind to and block the body’s natural estrogen receptors. Isoflavones can inhibit thyroid function,[22] and even increase the risk of breast cancer.[23] In my opinion, it’s best to limit your intake of isoflavones, soy, and soy products.
Resveratrol
Resveratrol is a healthy phytochemical found in wine.
You’ve probably heard of the so-called “French Paradox”—the phenomenon of low rates of heart disease in France despite a diet relatively high in saturated fats. Many speculate it’s influenced by daily, moderate consumption of red wine. Resveratrol http://dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=32800 may be the primary agent responsible for the healthy effects of red wine.[24]
Plants produce resveratrol to help protect against harmful organisms and environmental challenges, like drought. Resveratrol offers many benefits to humans as well, including heart-protective effects http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=99&t=32799[25] and defense against many degenerative health conditions because of its antioxidant action.[24]
While the incredible benefits of resveratrol appear to be real, the hype behind red wine is less so. When studies about resveratrol made the news a few years ago, media outlets went crazy with headlines like “Can Drinking Red Wine Help You Live Forever?” These hyperbolic headlines turned out to be more sensational than fact. While certain red wines do contain resveratrol, the amount varies by quality and grape variety.
The publicized health benefits of resveratrol have also resulted in the market being flooded with low-quality wine by those hoping to cash in. There was a report a few years ago that found dozens of wine brands were contaminated with arsenic.[26] Even if you find an excellent red wine, be sure to exercise moderation. Alcohol can upset your gut microbiome http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=17&t=36147, disrupt your hormones, and damage your liver.
Fortunately, red wine is not the only source of resveratrol. Resveratrol is found in grapes, peanuts, pistachios, blueberries, cranberries, mulberries, lingonberries, and even dark chocolate.[27]
Getting the Right Phytochemicals
Phytochemicals are not a magical health elixir but they are something to consider when planning a healthy diet. When combined with regular exercise, a balanced, plant-based diet that provides a variety of beneficial phytochemicals and phytonutrients can contribute greatly to your overall health. Currently, there is no official recommended daily allowance for phytochemicals but regularly consuming a variety of fruits and vegetables will ensure you receive a steady, diverse supply.
Plant-based food is the best way to get valuable phytochemicals into your body and, in fact, plants are the only natural source of phytochemicals. Some nutritional supplements contain phytochemicals that have been extracted from plants (and some contain synthetically produced versions, which I prefer to avoid). It’s always best to talk to your trusted healthcare professional who can evaluate your individual needs before taking any new supplements.
Have you had any experience incorporating more phytonutrients into your diet? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts with the community.
by Dr. Edward Group DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM
References
1. Liu, S, et al. “Fruit and Vegetable Intake and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: The Women’s Health Study https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11010932.” The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition., vol. 72, no. 4, 30 Sept. 2000, pp. 922–8. Accessed 18 Oct. 2016.
2. Hung, H.C., et al., Fruit and vegetable intake and risk of major chronic disease. J Natl Cancer Inst, 2004. 96(21): p. 1577-84
3. Nguyen, JY, et al. “Adoption of a Plant-Based Diet by Patients with Recurrent Prostate Cancer https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16880426.” Integrative Cancer Therapies., vol. 5, no. 3, 2 Aug. 2006, pp. 214–23 Accessed 18 Oct. 2016.
4. Macknin, M, et al. “Plant-Based, No-Added-Fat or American Heart Association Diets: Impact on Cardiovascular Risk in Obese Children with Hypercholesterolemia and Their Parents https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25684089.” The Journal of Pediatrics., vol. 166, no. 4, 17 Feb. 2015, pp. 953–9. Accessed 18 Oct. 2016.
5. Rock, CL, et al. “Responsiveness of Carotenoids to a High Vegetable Diet Intervention Designed to Prevent Breast Cancer Recurrence https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9264275.” Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention : A Publication of the American Association for Cancer Research, Cosponsored by the American Society of Preventive Oncology., vol. 6, no. 8, 1 Aug. 1997, pp. 617–23. Accessed 18 Oct. 2016.
6. Tiwari, Brijesh K., Nigel Brunton, and Charles S. Brennan. Handbook of Plant Food Phytochemicals: Sources, Stability and Extraction. Hoboken: Wiley-Blackwell, 2012. Print.
7. Heneman, Karrie, and et al. “Nutrition and Health Info-Sheet: Some Facts About Phytochemicals http://nutrition.ucdavis.edu/content/infosheets/fact-pro-phytochemical.pdf.” UC Davis: Dept of Nutrition, The Regents of the University of California, Davis campus. Accessed 18 Oct. 2016.
8. Delange, Barbera, Ph.D. “Carotenoids http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/dietary-factors/phytochemicals/carotenoids.” Oregon State University: Linus Pauling Institute. Oregon State University, 2016. Web. 18 Oct. 2016.
9. Paiva, SA, and RM Russell. “Beta-Carotene and Other Carotenoids as Antioxidants https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10511324.” Journal of the American College of Nutrition., vol. 18, no. 5, 8 Oct. 1999, pp. 426–33. Accessed 19 Oct. 2016.
10. Krinsky, NI, et al. “Biologic Mechanisms of the Protective Role of Lutein and Zeaxanthin in the Eye https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12626691.” Annual Review of Nutrition., vol. 23, 11 Mar. 2003, pp. 171–201. Accessed 19 Oct. 2016.
11. Johnson, EJ. “The Role of Carotenoids in Human Health https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12134711.” Nutrition in Clinical Care : An Official Publication of Tufts University., vol. 5, no. 2, 24 July 2002, pp. 56–65. Accessed 19 Oct. 2016.
12. Tsao, Rong. Chemistry and Biochemistry of Dietary Polyphenols https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3257627/. Vol. 2, no. 12, 10 Dec. 2010. Accessed 19 Oct. 2016.
13. Delange, Barbera, Ph.D. “Flavonoids http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/dietary-factors/phytochemicals/flavonoids.” Oregon State University: Linus Pauling Institute. Oregon State University, 2015. Web. 18 Oct. 2016.
14. Erdman, JW, et al. “Effects of Cocoa Flavanols on Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18296357.” Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition., vol. 17, 28 May 2008, pp. 284–7. Accessed 19 Oct. 2016.
15. Konczak, Izabela, and Wei Zhang. Anthocyanins—More Than Nature’s Colours https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1082903/. Vol. 2004, no. 5, 1 Dec. 2004. Accessed 19 Oct. 2016.
16. Drake, Victoria, Ph.D. “Lignans http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/dietary-factors/phytochemicals/lignans.” Oregon State University: Linus Pauling Institute. Oregon State University, 2010. Web. 18 Oct. 2016.
17. Adlercreutz, H. “Lignans and Human Health https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17943494.” Critical Reviews in Clinical Laboratory Sciences., vol. 44, 19 Oct. 2007, pp. 483–525. Accessed 19 Oct. 2016.
18. Drake, Victoria, Ph.D. “Indole-3-Carbinol http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/dietary-factors/phytochemicals/indole-3-carbinol.” Oregon State University: Linus Pauling Institute. Oregon State University, 2008. Web. 18 Oct. 2016.
19. Verhoeven, DT, et al. “Epidemiological Studies on Brassica Vegetables and Cancer Risk https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8877066.” Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention: A Publication of the American Association for Cancer Research, Cosponsored by the American Society of Preventive Oncology., vol. 5, no. 9, 1 Sept. 1996, pp. 733–48. Accessed 19 Oct. 2016.
20. Dashwood, RH, et al. “Mechanisms of Anti-Carcinogenesis by Indole-3-Carbinol: Detailed in Vivo DNA Binding Dose-Response Studies After Dietary Administration with Aflatoxin B1 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3125995.” Carcinogenesis., vol. 9, no. 3, 1 Mar. 1988, pp. 427–32. Accessed 19 Oct. 2016.
21. Drake, Victoria, Ph.D. “Soy Isoflavones http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/dietary-factors/phytochemicals/soy-isoflavones.” Oregon State University: Linus Pauling Institute. Oregon State University, 2009. Web. 18 Oct. 2016.
22. Divi, RL, et al. “Anti-Thyroid Isoflavones from Soybean: Isolation, Characterization, and Mechanisms of Action https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9464451.” Biochemical Pharmacology., vol. 54, no. 10, 17 Feb. 1998, pp. 1087–96. Accessed 19 Oct. 2016.
23. Duffy, C, and M Cyr. “Phytoestrogens: Potential Benefits and Implications for Breast Cancer Survivors https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14583103.” Journal of Women’s Health (2002)., vol. 12, no. 7, 30 Oct. 2003, pp. 617–31. Accessed 19 Oct. 2016.
24. Delange, Barbera, Ph.D. “Resveratrols http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/dietary-factors/phytochemicals/resveratrol.” Oregon State University: Linus Pauling Institute. Oregon State University, 2015. Web. 18 Oct. 2016.
25. Aggarwal, BB, et al. “Role of Resveratrol in Prevention and Therapy of Cancer: Preclinical and Clinical Studies https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15517885.” Anticancer Research., vol. 24, 3 Nov. 2004, pp. 2783–840. Accessed 19 Oct. 2016.
26. Langston, Jennifer. “Arsenic Found in Many U.S. Red Wines, but Health Risks Depend on Total Diet http://www.washington.edu/news/2015/09/29/arsenic-found-in-many-u-s-red-wines-but-health-risks-depend-on-total-diet/.” University of Washington, 29 Sept. 2015. Accessed 19 Oct. 2016.
27. Skerrett, Patrick J. “Resveratrol—the Hype Continues – Harvard Health Blog http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/resveratrol-the-hype-continues-201202034189.” Drugs and Supplements, Harvard Health Blog, 3 Feb. 2012. Accessed 19 Oct. 2016.
10 Things You Didn’t Know About Yeast Infections
(DrEddyClinic News) It’s hard to live in a living world without some living organisms taking residence on or inside of your body. It might not be the most pleasant idea, but everyone is carrying bugs of some sort. Harmful organisms in the intestines and bacteria in the gut are among the most common. Another is Candida albicans http://www.dreddyclinic.com/findinformation/oo/oralthrushandcandidaalbicans.php.
If you’ve ever experienced a yeast infection, then you probably know this one well. Although everyone has Candida, problems are unlikely to arise if it’s kept in balance. However, if an imbalance occurs, so may a yeast infection. Yeast infections can affect the mouth, skin and genitals (and that includes women AND men) and range in severity from inconvenient and uncomfortable to life-threatening. Additionally, overgrowth in the gastrointestinal tract may be a catalyst for serious problems if the fungus enters the blood stream.
Let’s take a look at a few other must-know facts about yeast infections.
1. Yeast Infections May Occur Orally
Gross. Really? Yes, oral yeast infections are commonly called thrush. This infection is common in newborns but typically passes quickly. Babies are not the only ones affected, a recent study found that oral Candida overgrowth occurs in one out of every four adults. Poor oral hygiene is often a primary factor. Researchers identified the presence of plaque, tartar, and amalgam fillings http://dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=33627 as significantly related to the degree of Candida present. [1] The best defense? Proper, and regular, oral hygiene.
2. Vaginal Yeast Infections Can Be Tricky
Practicing good hygiene is a very good deterrent for yeast infections. However, this isn’t always the case. Frequent douching has been associated with higher incidences of yeast infections. So has wearing tight nylon or synthetic underwear. Oddly enough, over-the-counter anti-fungal medications have also been associated with stubborn occurrences of vaginal candiadosis. [2] The use of intrauterine contraceptive devices also show a statistically significant increase in Candida infection. [3]
3. Use of an Asthma Inhaler May Contribute to Candida
A Brazilian study of adults using inhalers for longer than 6 months identified oral candidiasis as one of several adverse effects. [4] Anyone using an inhaler, or any other oral appliance (such as mouth guards, retainers, or dentures) should be aware of the possibility of Candida exposure.
4. Candida Naturally Occurs On and In Humans
Microbiota like Candida occur naturally on human skin and in the human gastrointestinal tract. In healthy individuals, the immune system and symbiotic bacteria help keep these fungal species in check. Not surprisingly, persons with compromised immune systems are among the most susceptible to Candida overgrowth.
5. The Connection Between Diabetes and Candida
Individuals with diabetes are more likely to develop genital yeast infections, both women and men. The high blood glucose levels of diabetics encourage yeast growth. And, because it inhibits immune response, the risk of recurring infection is higher. Women are more likely to suffer infection from Candida alibicans and Candida glabrate. Uncircumsized men may experience infection from Candida balaritis. [5]
6. Candida Often Accompanies HIV
Research has shown nearly 90% of HIV positive patients suffer from oral Candiadisis. In contrast, these patients do not experience an increase in genital yeast infection. [6]
7. Candida Loves Carbohydrates
While Candida occurs naturally in the human digestive tract, how much is present depends quite a bit on diet. Studies have identified that persons whose diets are high in carbohydrates are more susceptible than persons whose diets are high in amino acids, proteins and fatty acids. Candida levels increase most immediately following consumption of carbohydrates.[7]
8. You Can Protect Yourself With Probiotics
Intestinal yeast infections, or Candida overgrowth, have been associated with the development of several Irritable Bowel Diseases (IBDs) such as Crohn’s disease http://www.dreddyclinic.com/findinformation/ii/inflammatoryboweldisease.php. Protecting intestinal health has become a major focus for research. One study identified a probiotic http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=31651 strain as successful for improving cellular defense against Candida http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/supplements/probiotic-bacterium-supplement.html?a_aid=141637&a_bid=c5985807. [8]
9. Presents an Increased Risk of MS
This one is an unforeseen doozy to most — Candida infection has been associated with increased odds of multiple sclerosis http://www.dreddyclinic.com/findinformation/mm/multiplesclerosis.php (MS). A case-control study evaluated the relationship of MS and Candida infection and discovered that MS patients showed higher overall blood serum levels of Candida than the control group. [9]
10. Potential Remedy for Warts?
Perhaps not all facts about Candida infections are bad. One study found positive benefits from using a purified C. albicans antigen solution for persistent warts http://dreddyclinic.com/findinformation/ww/commonwarts.php. This has led researchers to suggest intralesional Candida immunotherapy may provide an effective treatment for warts resistant to other forms of destruction. [10]
-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM
References:
1. Muzurovic S, Babajic E, Masic T, Smajic R, Selmanagic A. The relationship between oral hygiene and oral colonisation with Candida species http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23409525. Med Arh. 2012;66(6):415-7.
2. Ekpenyong CE, Inyang-etoh EC, Ettebong EO, Akpan UP, Ibu JO, Daniel NE. Recurrent vulvovaginal candidosis among young women in south eastern Nigeria: the role of lifestyle and health-care practices http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23104744. Int J STD AIDS. 2012 Oct;23(10):704-9. doi: 10.1258/ijsa.2012.011382.
3. Güdücü N, Gönenç G, Içi H, Yi?iter AB, Basüllü N, Dünder I. Clinical importance of detection of bacterial vaginosis, trichomonas vaginalis, candida albicans and actinomyces in Papanicolaou smears http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23157037. Clin Exp Obstet Gynecol. 2012;39(3):333-6.
4. Pinto CR, Almeida NR, Marques TS, Yamamura LL, Costa LA, Souza-Machado A. Local adverse effects associated with the use of inhaled corticosteroids in patients with moderate or severe asthma http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24068261. J Bras Pneumol. 2013 Jun-Aug;39(4):409-17. doi: 10.1590/S1806-37132013000400003.
5. PNyirjesy P, Sobel JD. Genital mycotic infections in patients with diabetes http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23748505. Postgrad Med. 2013 May;125(3):33-46. doi: 10.3810/pgm.2013.05.2650.
6. Fidel PL Jr. Immunity to Candida http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12164664. Oral Dis. 2002;8 Suppl 2:69-75.
7. Hoffmann C, Dollive S, Grunberg S, Chen J, Li H, Wu GD, Lewis JD, Bushman FD. Archaea and fungi of the human gut microbiome: correlations with diet and bacterial residents http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23799070. PLoS One. 2013 Jun 17;8(6):e66019. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0066019. Print 2013.
8. Rizzo A, Losacco A, Carratelli CR. Lactobacillus crispatus modulates epithelial cell defense against Candida albicans through Toll-like receptors 2 and 4, interleukin 8 and human β-defensins 2 and 3 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24120511. Immunol Lett. 2013 Oct 10. pii: S0165-2478(13)00158-2. doi: 10.1016/j.imlet.2013.08.013.
9. Benito-León J, Pisa D, Alonso R, Calleja P, Díaz-Sánchez M, Carrasco L. Association between multiple sclerosis and Candida species: evidence from a case-control study http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20556470. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis. 2010 Sep;29(9):1139-45. doi: 10.1007/s10096-010-0979-y. Epub 2010 Jun 17.
10. Majid I, Imran S. Immunotherapy with Intralesional Candida Albicans Antigen in Resistant or Recurrent Warts: A Study http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24082180. Indian J Dermatol. 2013 Sep;58(5):360-365.
