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Article reviewed by: Dr. Noelle King, N.D.
Constipation and yeast infections, are two conditions that have been around for a long time. And, they both may be related.
The bacteria in the gut are important for maintaining regular bowel movements, and keeping Candida in check.
A study published in the Journal of Medical Microbiology [13.1 (1980): 45-56] shows that about half of the dry weight of human feces is bacteria. This significant amount of bacteria will certainly play a major role in the health of the digestive system.
If you have undergone antibiotic therapy, you may have more yeast and less bacteria in your intestines. Yeast are not harmed by antibiotics; and, overgrow rapidly when these natural competitors are wiped out.
Yeast can quickly transform from a harmless commensal, to a virulent pathogen, given such opportunities.
High levels of yeast in the bowels keeps probiotics from gaining too much of a foothold; and, thus may be responsible for constipation. Yeast also reduces the amount of magnesium in the gut—another reason you may have slower motility of digesting food.
Research on Candida’s Relationship with Constipation
One study, published in Digestive and Liver Disease [37.11 (2005): 838-849], indicates that intestinal microbiota plays a role in constipation. Helpful probiotics, like species in the Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus genuses, were totally absent in many of the constipated individuals.
And, even if present, were in reduced numbers compared to those found in the control group (which were not suffering from constipation). Also, about one third of constipated individuals had Staphylococcus aureus in their fecal matter; whereas, individuals in the control group, had none of this pathogenic bacteria in their stools.
Lack of good probiotic colonies in the gut, also likely contributed to the shockingly higher rates of Candida prevalence—more than half of the constipated subjects had 10 to 100 times as much Candida yeast in their stools. The study, reiterates many of these facts in describing the results of the research, stating:
In this study, the microbiological studies revealed significant changes in the composition of the faecal microflora among constipated patients.
A suppression of major species of the obligate microflora was paralleled by an increased pool of potentially pathogenic microorganisms: common E. coli in 40.3% of the cases, atypical E. coli in 19.3%, S. aureus in 33.3% and enterobacteria in 21%.
These changes were most pronounced among those who were most severely constipated and demonstrated the slowest transit through the large bowel; concentrations of E. coli and Candida were increased by 10- to 100-fold in more than half of the patients in this subgroup.
Digestive and Liver Disease [37.11 (2005): 838-849]
The researchers in this study, also ran analyses of fecal matter on the constipated individuals, after they took the laxative Bisacodyl. The researchers found that the microbiota of the fecal matter seemed to be more normalized after the subjects took the laxative.
Yet, the levels of Candida and other pathogenic bacteria, in the fecal matter of the constipated subjects, did not stay normal. At 3 months after the termination of the laxative treatment, abnormal fecal microbiota was seen—including the presence of Candida and mold.
The study states the following regarding its findings:
Furthermore, normalisation of evacuatory function by Bisacodyl treatment was accompanied by a relative normalisation of the microflora; the number of patients with normal concentrations of bifidobacteria, E. coli and other commensal microorganisms increased 1.5- to 2-fold. Following the discontinuation of therapy, prior abnormalities returned.
Digestive and Liver Disease [37.11 (2005): 838-849]
Another study, published in the journal Infection and Immunity [42.1 (1983): 285-292], shows how the pathogenic Staphylococcus aureus bacteria can create a hazardous synergy with Candida albicans. The researchers took various strains of Staphylococcus aureus and determined the dose needed to kill mice.
They then combined Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans and determined the lethal dose for an inoculation of both pathogens. The dose at which one strain of Staphylococcus aureus with Candida albicans killed mice was 70,000 times smaller than that strain of Staphylococcus aureus alone.
Likewise, all the other strains of Staphylococcus aureus used with Candida albicans, were much more lethal than the strain of Staphylococcus aureus alone (useful charts from the study showing this data can be found here). This could indicate how the hazardous bacteria, that constipation victims seem to prone to, can work with Candida in the gut to cause greater damage to their host.
This could possibly be a reason why the large intestine isn’t performing well, and not mobilizing waste quick enough.
Magnesium, Constipation, and Candida
Magnesium in the bowels is osmotic; i.e., it absorbs water, and therefore pulls water into the bowels. Magnesium can also help relax the bowels and allow digesting food to move through more easily.
Osmotic laxatives, such as magnesium citrate, are often used to relax the bowels and add water to the digesting food. As you may know, many laxatives contain magnesium. So, having this mineral in your digestive system may play a key part in keeping you regular.
A study, published in Digestive Diseases and Sciences [28.9 (1983): 812-819], found that magnesium would expedite bowel movements and also cause the body to absorb less nutrients from the food. A lack of magnesium in your diet could therefore cause you to intake more calories and have slower bowel movements.
Candida also loves magnesium; and, can absorb it right out of your intestines and into itself. A study, published in FEMS Microbiology Letters [77.2-3 (1991): 187-193], reported that magnesium was required for exponential growth of Candida albicans yeast cells.
Another study, published in the Journal of General Microbiology [130.8 (1984): 1941-1945], showed a strong relationship between Candida and magnesium. Candida albicans used in the study required magnesium to form germ tube hyphal growths.
When Candida albicans was grown in a magnesium deficient environment, germ tube growth did not occur. The germ tube growth phase of the yeast also caused a sharp increase in the amount of magnesium the yeast cells took in.
A non-hyphal forming strain of Candida did not take in much magnesium; consequently, only hyphal forming Candida species may dramatically drain gut magnesium. The researchers stated the following about their findings:
Cell Mg content during exponential yeast-phase growth remained constant but increased throughout germ-tube formation. The onset of germ-tube formation coincided with a sharp peak in Mg concentration within the cells.
Yeast-phase cells of strain CA2, which did not form germ-tubes, had a lower Mg content and failed to accumulate Mg when incubated under conditions for germ-tube formation.
Journal of General Microbiology [130.8 (1984): 1941-1945]
Consequently, if you have a significant amount of hyphal forming yeast in your gut, you could very well be lacking magnesium. But, be cautious if you are thinking about using a magnesium laxative.
The increase in magnesium in the gut will also spur the development of hyphal forming Candida. So, you may want to eliminate the yeast in your gut first, and then use a magnesium free laxative; while you go through your yeast elimination process.
A 1/2 Day & Yeast is Gone!
Linda Allen suffered from yeast infections for years. Through researching natural medicine & Candida, she found an efficacious solution!
Linda is one expert you want on your side! Let her show you how to get rid of a superficial yeast infection in just 12 hours; AND, keep it gone!
A 60-day, 100% money back guarantee is provided.
Visit Official Site!Natural Solutions for Constipation
The late Dr. William Crook, in his book Tired—So Tired and the Yeast Connection, recommends using probiotics to ameliorate your digestive health.
In fact, Dr. Crook has an entire chapter in the aforementioned book, dedicated to probiotics. Dr. Crook recommends the use of two popular probiotics: Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum.
Crook cites an expert in the book, and said the three main criteria for choosing a probiotic are:
- Ability of the bacteria to survive bile and gastric acid.
- Ability of the bacteria to adhere to the epithelium of the alimentary canal (this is the tube going from mouth to anus).
- A supplement should have an adequate number of live organisms.
Having enough good bacteria in your digestive system may be a key to stopping constipation. Probiotics also take up space on epithelium adhesion sites, eat up sugars, and some secrete lactic acid.
These three things can all help reduce the ability of Candida to overgrow in the digestive system. So, getting your intestinal microbiota balanced, could help with both Candida and constipation!
To get rid of constipation without using magnesium rich laxatives, you can try taking flax seeds. Flaxseed has been utilized for centuries to get rid of constipation. The seeds themselves contain somewhere between 6 to 12% mucilage.
Mucilage is a gummy substance that will give the stool softness. Mucilage can also coat the digestive tract and give it more natural protection.
In addition to flaxseed, if you are not getting enough fiber and water in your diet, this may be a key reason why you are constipated. So, make sure to eat plenty of fiber rich foods or supplement with fiber. And, keep drinking enough water. What if protein tended to harden the stool? Perhaps you should try and avoid eating a lot of meat, in addition.
Eliminate Bacterial Vaginosis & Vaginal Odor
Jennifer O’Brien is one prominent expert on BV that knows how to get rid of vaginal odor. BV is a common infection that you don’t have to put up with.
Jennifer will show you how to naturally eliminate vaginal odor in just 3 days.
A 60-day, 100% money back guarantee is provided.
Visit Official Site!Colon Hydrotherapy for Constipation
Recently, a man discussed his digestive issues, stating despite eating 3 meals a day, he only had one bowel movement a week for years. After undergoing colon irrigation, he was able to pass stool more frequently and with ease.
Colonic hydrotherapy is a gentle way to address stagnation in the large intestine that might have years of buildup and obstacles that are creating chronic constipation.
There is a lot of discussion about how valuable such a therapy may be; and, a lot of opinions on both sides. Candida Hub has an article on this subject you may want to check out: Colon Hydrotherapy Candida Cleanse.
Clair Goodall: Author & Nature Lover
Clair Goodall is a bee-obsessed natural medicine convert from Minnesota. She is one expert you might want to know more about!
Clair will help you protect you and your family from toxic products and chemicals and help you discover solutions from nature.
Also, Clair’s book is backed by a 60-day, 100% money back guarantee
Visit Official Site!Get Rid of Gut Yeast!
Candida Hub’s Gut Yeast article contains a natural digestive system cleanse to kill Candida. You may find reading up on the subject of gut yeast helpful; and, you may benefit from doing the natural cleanse!
With the possible connection between Candida and constipation, this therapy could give you the edge in your battle with constipation.
A Natural, 12 Hour Yeast Infection Cure
According to a research paper published in Clinical Microbiology Reviews [12.1 (1999): 80-96], Candida species are quite ubiquitous organisms. Candida are most frequently present in the mouth; and, live in 31% to 55% of healthy people. The species that causes approximately 70% to 80% of all Candida infections is C. albicans.
The Chinese Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology [2011 Jul;46(7):496] reports there appears to be a correlation between intestinal Candida infections and vaginal yeast infections. And, this provides a clue, as to why yeast infections in general, can reoccur.
This study states, in 148 cases of vaginal candida infections, 33.1% of the women were infected in both the intestines and vaginal area.
The recurrence rate of yeast infections, in women with simultaneous intestinal infection, was significantly higher than for women who did not have an intestinal infection. This study concluded that vaginal yeast infections are highly associated with simultaneous intestinal Candida infection.
As research appears to indicate, systemic Candida infections can and do happen. A more systemic Candida infection may primarily get a foothold in the intestines; and cause a wide array of problems. If your yeast infections keep happening, a systemic Candida problem may be why.
One woman who suffered from a systemic Candida infection, for about 12 years, was Linda Allen. The systemic Candida infection that attacked Linda caused a wide range of health problems in addition to yeast infections.
Some of these problems, Linda describes in her own words in the following quote:
To be honest, it was hard to pinpoint exactly what was wrong: I wasn’t really sick, but I wasn’t really well either. I had listlessness, fatigue, brain fog, stomach ailments, unexplained rashes, skin infections, and so on. It seemed like every day brought a new challenge.
My energy was sapped and I felt exhausted, which affected my grades and put a big dent in my social life.
Linda Allen’s symptoms included an embarrassing vaginal discharge, severe itching, and burning sensations. Her infections were difficult to deal with, and Linda’s health problems cost her financially as well. Linda states these infections of Candida can become excruciating when they happen as frequently as a menstrual period.
Yet, Linda spent a great deal of time in research; and even questioned health professionals who were kind enough to share some time with her. Linda even tried an array of purported "cures."
Although it took a while, eventually, Linda put together a natural treatment plan she hoped would solve her Candida situation.
After spending about a year refining her new approach, Linda tried her system on herself. It worked amazingly well. Linda even returned to a few medical doctors to get tested for the presence of infections.
These tests revealed all indicators of infection had vanished! Linda was indeed well again, after such a long, difficult journey.
Linda has since published a book detailing how to copy her success. She also includes a 12 hour yeast infection cure that can get rid of a superficial (such as a genital yeast infection or oral thrush) yeast infection in about 12 hours.
Linda’s publisher protects those who get her book with a 60 day, 100% money back guarantee. Linda’s publisher, a subsidiary of the United States based firm Keynetics Incorporated, is a reputable digital retailer that has been around for a long time.
They have great customer service, and make getting a full refund on Linda’s book quick and easy. If you’re not satisfied, you can quickly get all your money back.
If you would like to learn more about Linda’s journey to freedom from Candida, see reviews of others who tried her natural system, or find out more about her efficacious book; you can find more information at Linda Allen’s website.
Author: Mr. Nicholas Gross
Nick Gross is a natural medicine enthusiast who has been researching and writing about natural medicine since 2008. Nick is primarily a web developer but also researches and authors written and video content about natural health. Nick has a bachelor’s degree in Management Information Systems from the University of Northern Iowa.
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SOURCES:
- http://dx.doi.org/10.1099/00222615-13-1-45 — Stephen, Alison M., and J. H. Cummings. "The microbial contribution to human faecal mass." Journal of Medical Microbiology 13.1 (1980): 45-56.
- http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.dld.2005.06.008 — Khalif, I. L., et al. "Alterations in the colonic flora and intestinal permeability and evidence of immune activation in chronic constipation." Digestive and liver disease 37.11 (2005): 838-849.
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC264556/ — Carlson, E. U. N. I. C. E. "Effect of strain of Staphylococcus aureus on synergism with Candida albicans resulting in mouse mortality and morbidity."Infection and immunity 42.1 (1983): 285-292. PDF Available Here
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6884167 — Holgate, A. M., and N. W. Read. "Relationship between small bowel transit time and absorption of a solid meal influence of metoclopramide, magnesium sulfate, and lactulose." Digestive diseases and sciences 28.9 (1983): 812-819.
- http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1574-6968.1991.tb04345.x — Holmes, Ann R., Richard D. Cannon, and Maxwell G. Shepherd. "Effect of calcium ion uptake on Candida albicans morphology." FEMS microbiology letters 77.2-3 (1991): 187-193.
- http://dx.doi.org/10.1099/00221287-130-8-1941 — Walker, Graeme M., Patrick A. Sullivan, and Maxwell G. Shepherd. "Magnesium and the regulation of germ-tube formation in Candida albicans."Journal of general microbiology 130.8 (1984): 1941-1945.
- Google Books — Crook, William Grant. Tired—So Tired! and the Yeast Connection. Square One Publishers, 2001.
- https://doi.org/10.1128/CMR.12.1.80 -- Fidel, Paul L., Jose A. Vazquez, and Jack D. Sobel. "Candida glabrata: review of epidemiology, pathogenesis, and clinical disease with comparison to C. albicans." Clinical Microbiology Reviews [12.1 (1999): 80-96].
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22041440/ -- Lin XL, Li Z, Zuo XL. "Study on the relationship between vaginal and intestinal candida in patients with vulvovaginal candidiasis." Chinese Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology (Zhonghua fu chan ke za zhi). [2011 Jul;46(7):496].
