| Overgrowth of the yeast Candida albicans in the gastrointestine can
trigger specific symptoms very similar to PMS, most notably fatigue,
depression, anxiety, and joint pain. One study compared two groups
of women, those with PMS and those with recurrent C. albicans infection,
and found that a subgroup of women from the PMS group reacted to cyclic
increases in Candida within the gastrointestinal tract.1
Significantly,
Candida albicans is closely connected with the activity of reproductive
hormones in women. Estradiol, one of the body's main forms of estrogen,
can enhance the survival of C. albicans by protecting it from heat
and oxidative stress.2 Experimental study also shows that in vivo
concentrations of estradiol can induce mycelial growth of C. albicans,
causing it to become pathogenic.3
C. albicans
infection is found more frequently in the premenstrual phase than
in the follicular or early luteal phase.4 Some researchers have
suggested that this yeast may trigger PMS symptoms by activating
an autoimmune response to sex steroid hormones such as estrogen.5
The cyclic rise and fall of these steroid levels could, in theory,
result in flare-ups of Candida-induced symptoms.
Interestingly,
Candida overgrowth is stimulated by poor diet and overconsumption
of sugar, two factors that are also believed to worsen symptoms
of PMS. To avoid the overgrowth of Candida infection and the possible
exacerbation PMS symptoms, practitioners can assess patients using Anti-Candida
Antibody or Candida Intensive Culture.Call to set up
a nutritional consultation so that tests can be performed and a
comprehensive strategy of lifestyle, dietary modification and nutrient
supplementation can be implemented to aid you in reversing this
disorder.
For an appointment, contact our office at: 800-956-7083 or 919 707-3126.
Dr. Rispoli, Ph.D., L Ac. has had a clinical practice for over 20
years. Her programs work because she is so thorough in testing and
providing a nutritional approach. Remember that the body can heal
itself if given the proper nutrients.
References
1 Burnhill MS. Preliminary investigation of the relationship between
chronic candidiasis and premenstrual syndrome. Paper presented at
the 2nd International Symposium, Premenstrual, Postpartum and Menopausal
Mood Disorders, Kiawah Island, Charleston, SC, September 10, 1987.
2 O' Connor C, Essmann M, Larsen B. 17-beta-estradiol upregulates
the stress response in Candida albicans: implications for microbial
virulence. Infect Dis Obstet Gynecol 1998;6(4):176-81.
3 White S, Larsen B. Candida albicans morphogenesis is influenced
by estrogen. Cell Mol Life Sci 1997;53(9):744-9.
4 Segal E, Soroka A, Schecther A. Correlative relationship between
adherence of Candida albicans to human epithelial cells in vitro
and candidal vaginitis. J Med Veterinary Mycology 1984; 22:191-220.
5 Severino SK, Moline ML. Premenstrual syndrome: a clinician's guide.
New York: Guilford Press, 1989;130.
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