Page 64 - Retail Pharmacy Assistants - October 2020

62 ANTIFUNGAL Is Candida linked to IBS? By Nerine Zoio. C andida engenders much interest in pharmacies because it’s commonly dealt with in this setting and has been linked to conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, tinnitus and mercury exposure. Also of interest is its ability to shield and protect itself through biofilms in some species. Mark Webster, integrated health practitioner and owner of Stay Well Pharmacy in Christchurch, New Zealand, tells Retail Pharmacy Assistants that Candida is often referred to as a fungal infection. “It’s the most common fungal infection globally in humans, with the most common species being Candida albicans,” he said. Specifically, it’s a yeast found in the gastrointestinal tract and other areas of the body without causing harm. Candida’s objective is to assist digestion and nutrient absorption as well as to help the immune system by recognising and destroying harmful bacteria. Candida can get into a person’s system through many means, the most common being: a course of antibiotics; prescription drugs, including the contraceptive pill; bacterial infections; a weak immune system; diabetes; autoimmune conditions; consumption of processed foods; consumption of too much sugar or grains; hormonal changes; and stress. Signs of Candida infection include: fluctuations in mood; digestive, skin and immunity issues; weight gain; chronic fatigue; and lack of appetite, among others. A healthy lifestyle in terms of diet, exercise and positive thinking, ingestion of good bacteria and avoidance of chemicals can help combat Candida. Candida-IBS link ‘established’ Best-selling author Dr Sarah Brewer in her book, Overcoming Candida, supports the theory of a link between Candida and IBS and suggests how it can be managed. However, some healthcare professionals are dubious about this link. In the book, Dr Brewer makes associations between irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gluten, lactose and wheat intolerances. She details how patients can use immunity to combat thrush and intestinal symptoms, and to prevent Candida changing from a harmless to an invasive form. Candida, commonly known as thrush, is a result of an overgrowth of the yeast Candida albicans, she says. Candida infections commonly begin after courses of antibiotics, weakened immune systems, diabetes or having medical devices such as urinary catheters inserted. “They can impact the health of both genders and in children,” Mr Webster said. Dr Brewer advises that when recurrent Candida is diagnosed, it’s important to exclude diabetes, and to provide appropriate antifungal treatment, with ingestion of probiotics proving helpful. TO PAGE 64 “Candida is the most common fungal infection globally in humans, with the most common species being Candida albicans.” RETAIL PHARMACY ASSISTANTS • OCT 2020