Just Ask Terry

Terry is happy to provide his opinion on diet and nutrition, supplements and lifestyle choices. This information is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace the advice of your physician and is not to be considered medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Should you have any concerns please contact your physician directly.

Q. Dear Terry, “I suffer through multiple yeast infections every year. I am tired of using the prescription medications and over the counter remedies – many of which are ineffective. Are there any other options out there?” — Gail T., Lancaster, CA

A. Dear Gail, Candida is often a recurring, frustrating part of a woman’s life. It’s estimated that approximately 75 percent of women will have at least one yeast infection during their lifetimes, with 40 to 45 percent of women experiencing two or more episodes.

Candida albicans is a naturally occurring type of yeast that lives in your body. It generally doesn’t cause trouble unless it starts to grow and spread out of control. While your body has systems in place to keep Candida in check, they can get out of balance, thus allowing a window of opportunity for Candida to spread like wildfire.

The ideal way to balance yeast in the body is to use a concentrated essential plant oil blend consisting of Ravensara, Myrtle, Thyme, and Bay. All four ingredients have strong yeast-inhibiting, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. I would recommend initially starting off with 2 softgels of this blend twice daily up to 10 days, and then reduce to 2 softgels daily thereafter.

When choosing a formula, make sure it features concentrated plant oils that have been laboratory tested to accurately identify elements of their natural chemical composition. Unlike essential oils used for massage and aromatherapy, these plant oils are tested and “fingerprinted” based on specific molecular makeup, species, marker compounds, purity and safety for internal medicinal use. The extraordinary potency of these tested plant oils allows for relatively low doses, but very powerful health benefits.

It’s important to also have a good probiotic as part of your daily regimen because maintaining healthy intestinal microflora is so important in preventing yeast overgrowth. When you supplement with healthy bacteria, they tend to take up residence, which keeps the Candida from re-occupying their old neighborhood should another overgrowth occur. Stick with the probiotic, even if you don’t necessarily “feel” any changes.

Lastly, a word about diet. I’d urge you to stay away from refined sugars and carbohydrates altogether, to really kick Candida to the curb. For a more detailed look at an effective diet that works, please see my article, Terry’s Traditional Diet.

Healthy Regards!

Terry . . . Naturally