Is there a connection between a fatty liver and a candida infection?  How would –or how could that happen?

What is Fatty Liver?

Fatty liver is also known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).  The more severe form of NAFLD is called non-alcoholic steatohepatitis or NASH.  NAFLD cases are increasing worldwide and appear to be related to the rise in obesity and type 2 diabetes.  In the US, it is estimated that some form of fatty liver occurs in about 20% of the population with about 5% of people affected with the more serious form, NASH.  Fatty liver is a good name because the main problem in NAFLD is the accumulation of the types of fat called triglycerides.

Triglycerides are a type of fat (lipid) that is stored in your fat cells to be used when you need energy.  If you take in more calories than you use, these triglycerides are not needed as an energy source and the fat is stored in fat cells and begins to build up.  Triglycerides are also in the blood and are often measured in blood tests to determine your risk for heart disease.  It may be particularly important to emphasize that the liver damage associated with NAFLD is quite different than the damage associated with the liver when the person has abused alcohol for years—in fact, most people with fatty liver have no history of alcohol abuse.[1]

Related articles:

• The Gallbladder: Does Candida Increase Your Risk of Gallbladder Disease?
• Candida Patients And Low Blood Sugar Issues
• Everything You Need To Know About Candida Auris
• Why I Prefer the CDSA Functional Stool Test
• Drunk Feeling All The Time – Is It Candida?
• How to Fit More Fruits and Vegetables Into Your Diet

What Causes Fatty Liver?

We don’t know all the details of what causes fatty liver.  At this point, most researchers believe that fatty liver requires two “hits” for it to develop.  There are also environmental (eg. dietary, lifestyle factors) and genetic influences (your genes and your family history) that may put you at higher risk for fatty liver.

• The first “hit” is believed to be an increase in the blood levels of triglycerides. This may occur because of poor diet (eg. a high fat diet with few fruits and vegetables or a reliance on fast foods or processed foods), low physical activity (eg. a job that requires you to sit for prolonged periods of time) or because of a genetic tendency to have increased triglycerides (TGs).
• The second “hit” is believed to be some form of stress that acts on the liver. This stress can be:
  • Oxidative stress where a build-up of free radicals and other oxidizing agents begin to seriously damage cells and organelles within the cells, most importantly the mitochondria and the nuclear DNA. It is believed that some form of oxidative stress is always present in fatty liver disease.
    • Free radicals are highly reactive naturally produced substances that are normally neutralized by natural antioxidants such as glutathione, Vitamins C, E and beta-carotenoids and others. Free radicals can damage mitochondria and DNA and are a main underlying cause of inflammation. DNA contains all the genetic information for the sum total of the biochemical and biological activities the cells do 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
      • The mitochondria are often referred to the “powerhouses” of the cell. Mitochondria produce all the cellular energy.  It is believed that the mitochondria—and the damage done to mitochondria—is always part of the development of fatty liver disease.
    • Metabolic stress can also be involved in the development of fatty liver. Metabolic stress could be the result of inflammation, biochemical abnormalities (such as uncontrolled high blood sugar levels, high levels of inflammatory cytokines, an autoimmune response, insulin resistance and other alterations), infections, altered bacterial populations in the digestive system, poor diet and nutrition as well as hormonal imbalances.
    • Overgrowth of bacteria in the intestines has been associated with an increase in intestinal permeability, known as Leaky Gut Syndrome. This basically means that many of the toxins and metabolic by-products that should stay inside the intestines can leak out and damage the liver.[2]
    • Many researchers believe that NAFLD is the result of insulin resistance or prediabetes and metabolic syndrome, particularly because of the well-known relationship between obesity, diabetes, metabolic syndrome and NAFLD.[3]

The liver is that rare organ that can repair itself to a large extent. The two “hits” are essential to overcome—or overwhelm—the liver’s natural ability to repair itself.  After the two “hits”, the liver begins to lose this ability.  Once that ability to repair itself is reduced, fats in the form of triglycerides begin to accumulate and slowly, the function of the liver begins to decrease more and more.  You may know that the main functions of the liver include:

• The synthesis of proteins
  • For example, the liver synthesizes proteins needed for proper blood clotting and the proteins (enzymes) needed for various biochemical functions
• Storage of vitamins such a vitamins B12, folate, Vitamin A, Vitamin D
• Bile production
  • Bile is needed to help break down fats in the diet
• Synthesis of cholesterol
  • While many are concerned about their cholesterol levels, it is important to understand that cholesterol is absolutely necessary in the body. Cholesterol functions, for one, to give cells flexible membranes, allowing for example, blood cells to squeeze through tiny capillaries and distribute oxygen and nutrients to all cells of the body.  Cholesterol is also a starting material for a wide variety of important substances in the body.
• Conversion of blood sugar into its storage form, glycogen
• Clearing drugs and toxins from the body
  • Some of the enzymes in the liver are called the cytochrome P450 enzymes. These enzymes act on all sorts of toxins, metabolic by-products and drugs to reduce their toxicity and function to allow these detoxified substances to be safely excreted.  For example, the liver removes excess ammonia from the body—ammonia is produced as a result of a number of biochemical reactions.
• The liver is involved in removing bacteria from the blood and by producing substances that assist the immune system
• Clearance of bilirubin (a breakdown product of hemoglobin—the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells) and processing the iron in hemoglobin.

Needless to say, this is a long—and important—list of functions for the liver.  Once the liver begins to lose some of its functions, all aspects of your health can be affected, from a disruption of protein production, to hormonal unbalance, to digestive disorders, to immune disorders—and if you have recurrent candida infections or suspect a candida overgrowth, anything less than an optimally functioning liver can make regaining your health much more difficult.

What are the Symptoms of Fatty Liver? How is Fatty Liver Diagnosed?

The symptoms of fatty liver disease often do not become evident until quite late in the process.  When symptoms do appear, they tend to be rather generalized fatigue, unexplained weight loss and possible pain or discomfort in the right side of the upper abdomen.  Lab tests can be useful in making the diagnosis of fatty liver—especially if you go for a yearly physical and your doctor can compare your lab values with those of previous years.  Some of the lab tests that can be useful include:

• Blood tests for liver enzymes and other substances that can point to liver health—these are often called liver function tests (LFTs). LFTs most commonly consist of tests for the enzymes referred to as ALT, AST, ALP, GGT, and LD. Other proteins measured include bilirubin, albumin and autoantibodies to determine if there is an autoimmune disease.  Your doctor may also order a prothrombin time (PT) in order to determine if your liver is making the correct clotting proteins.  These test substances, depending on their levels, can give your doctor a better idea of how well your liver is functioning and can help rule in or rule out other liver disorders.[4]
• General blood tests like the CBC which determines the numbers and proportions of various blood cells and a test usually referred to as a CompMetabolic test or more simply, blood chemistries. The CompMetabolic blood test can give your doctor even more information about your general health as well as specific values referring to the liver.
• Imaging tests such as CT scans, MRIs and ultrasounds (US) can provide a visual picture of the state of your liver
• More rarely, a liver biopsy can be taken to determine if your liver has signs of NAFLD or NASH.

How is Fatty Liver Treated?

There is no widely accepted treatment for fatty liver disease, though your doctor is likely to recommend weight loss through better nutrition and increased exercise, especially since being overweight is a major risk factor for NAFLD. [5] It is also generally recommended that your diet should be adjusted to minimize unhealthy fats that can increase your triglyceride levels. Preventing any further damage is also often recommended—this may include getting vaccinated against Hepatitis viruses (Hepatitis A, and B), avoiding alcohol and avoiding any un-necessary medications or substituting medications that may be “kinder and gentler” to the liver.

Dietary treatment generally means increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables and decreasing the amounts of fats—particularly animal fat—in your diet.  Functionally, this usually means increasing the amounts of fish and poultry in your diet and limiting the amounts of red meat to lean cuts of red meat and pork. You can also increase your intake of complex carbohydrates and limit the amount of added sugar in your diet.  Complex carbohydrates are found in un-processed foods—processing breaks down the complex carbohydrates into simpler and often, more easily digestible simpler carbohydrates.  The easier digestion is a plus—but that “plus” is negated by the increase in blood sugar and the easier conversion of those sugars into fats including triglycerides.  Examples of foods with complex carbohydrates are whole grains, beans, legumes and starchy vegetables.

Candida and Fatty Liver Disease

There is some controversy regarding candida and fatty liver disease. Invasive candidiasis is very commonly seen in hospitalized patients. Candidemia, where the yeast is found in blood samples, has been called the 7^th to 10^th most common blood infection.[6] Since the yeast candida (usually Candida albicans) is normally found on the human body (on the surface, in the mouth and the vagina and in the intestinal tract), invasive candidiasis is most often found in people with a weakened immune system—those people whose immune system is damaged by disease or injury.[7]

However, candida can also overgrow the digestive system and alter the gut bacteria, increase intestinal permeability and affect some of the biochemical functions of the liver.[8]  Symptoms of candida overgrowth can include those which resemble fatty liver disease—though it should be mentioned that these are very general symptoms and can reflect other problems as well.  That said, these symptoms include chronic fatigue, a mental fogginess that doesn’t seem to go away, digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhea, gas and bloating, abdominal pain and/or discomfort and sometimes weight loss.

Many people with recurrent candida infections or with candida overgrowth also have problems with a fatty liver.  This does not necessarily mean that the candida causes the fatty liver but it does mean that supporting the liver—as well as dealing with candida overgrowth—can definitely help improve liver function, decrease the risk of fatty liver and support the immune system—which helps in clearing the candida.  Candida overgrowth—especially if it is associated with an altered population of gut bacteria and a leaky gut—can weaken the liver and the immune system.  Candida can also produce various toxins, including acetaldehyde, that can directly cause symptoms of fatigue, mental fogginess and feelings of anxiety and depression.[9]

Supplements to Support the Liver

You can use various herbs and supplements to help support the liver we recommend CanXida range of supplements.  The first step, though, is following some of the dietary steps listed above for the treatment of fatty liver. That is, increase your intake of fruits and vegetables, stick with complex carbohydrates, limit your intake of animal fats – and drink plenty of water.  Avoid as much as possible any foods or beverages with added sugar.

Secondly, you can consider including some herbs that have been shown to support liver function.  These include milk thistle, the roots (not the leaves) of dandelion, beets, radishes and parsley.  (You can also increase the amounts of beet and radishes you include in your diet!)

There are also a number of vitamins, minerals and nutraceuticals that are needed for healthy liver function.  One of the most important of these are the antioxidants, including choline, N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), glutathione and vitamins C, E and the beta-carotenes. B-complex vitamins are vital for liver health as well.

Related articles:

• Everything You Need To Know About Abnormal Fatigue & Tiredness
• Loss of Appetite And Candida: Is There A Connection?
• Functional Candida Testing: ELISA Blood and Saliva Tests
• Fluconazole (Diflucan)
• Candida Case Studies: Meet My Father
• Is Yoga Beneficial For Candida?

While the relationship between fatty liver and candida is not yet entirely clear, what IS clear is that many people are dealing with both a fatty liver and some form of candida overgrowth.  What is also clear is that if you have problems with candida, boosting your liver health, healing your gut and supporting your immune system can be beneficial for recovering your health and wellness.

References

1. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases_conditions/liver-disease/hic_Fatty_Liver
2. https://www.weizmann.ac.il/immunology/elinav/sites/immunology.elinav/files/2013_elinav_advances_in_immunology_0.pdf#page=82
3. https://www.stmconnect.com/sites/default/files/20140821144820.pdf
4. https://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/liver-panel/tab/test/
5. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nonalcoholic-fatty-liver-disease/basics/treatment/con-20027761
6. https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMra1315399
7. https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/infectious-diseases/fungi/candidiasis-invasive
8. Volynets, V., Küper, M.A., Strahl, S. et al. Dig Dis Sci (2012) 57: 1932.
9. Calderone RA. Candida and Candidiasis. 2002. ASM Press, Washington DC.

If you are reading this article, it can only mean two things: either you have been diagnosed with Alopecia Totalis or you simply want to know more about this disorder.

Well, whatever your reason may be, I’m willing to bet that your online search has left you quite frustrated! And that’s totally understandable!

Although a lot of websites talk about ‘Androgenetic Alopecia’, most of them tend to focus on only Alopecia Aerata. But that’s only one of the three types of Androgenetic Alopecia that exist. What about Alopecia Totalis? Well, your search is over: in this article, we will be answering all the questions that may have crossed your mind concerning Alopecia Totalis.

Alopecia Totalis – What is it all about?

Alopecia Totalis is a genetic hair condition which involves the inflammation of the hair follicle. This can ultimately result in individuals losing all of the hair on their scalp. Alopecia Totalis can also affect a person’s nails and hair, making them brittle, thin and wavy.

Alopecia Totalis is considered as an intermediary condition between:

i. Alopecia Areata (also called Alopecia Areata Patchy) in which a person loses patches of hair on the scalp. This usually occurs as smooth round patches that create bald spots of about 2cm (1 inch) across.
ii. Alopecia Universalis which, as you might have guessed, leads to the complete loss of body hair and scalp hair.

Alopecia Totalis typically shows up in two forms. One form involves the relatively sudden and complete loss of all the hair on the head whereas the starts as patches of hair loss and eventually progresses to complete scalp hair loss.

How common is it? A quick glance at statistics and prevalence.

Although it is generally believed that mostly elderly individuals are affected by Alopecia Totalis, this isn’t the case: people from all age groups can be affected by this condition. In fact, you may be surprised to learn that this hair condition affects mostly young adults (above 40 years of age) and children!

This being said, Alopecia Totalis has been defined as a rare disease by Orphanet, a group of European partners. That’s because only 1 person per 2000 individuals are affected by the condition.

Alopecia Totalis is more common in men than in women: according to statistics, about 1 in 250,000 females and 1 in 125,000 males are afflicted either by Alopecia Totalis or Alopecia Universalis.

Related articles:

• Preventing Vitamin and Mineral Loss when Cooking Vegetables
• Is Bath Good or Bad for Yeast Infection?
• Test Results Should Never Be Considered Exclusively
• Fantastic Aromatherapy Treatments for Vaginal Thrush
• The Differences between Adrenal and Thymus Gland Extracts
• Is Aloe Vera Good For Yeast Infection?

What are the causes?

So far, scientists have not been able to pinpoint exactly what triggers Alopecia Totalis. Despite the fact that it is believed to be a genetically programmed disorder and to have an autoimmune origin, evidence shows that chronic stress present for a long period of time or an unexpected shock can also result in this condition.

The fact that stress might be a trigger may come as a surprise but when you realize that stress can lower your immune function, it is possible that a distraught immune system might begin to attack your own cells.

What does current research say?

One explanation that has been put forward for the instigation of this rare disease is that an atypical autoimmune response results in the release of chemical messengers known as ‘cytokines’ by the white blood cells. These famous cytokines then attack the healthy hair follicles of the person, preventing hair to grow as it should. This can eventually result in total loss of the hair on the head.

Extensive research has been conducted in order to discover which gene is associated with Alopecia Totalis. Experts in this field are also trying to figure out why the white blood cells or the leukocyte antigen causing hair loss, behave in such a way. Several studies have clearly showed that the leukocyte DQ3 (DQB1*03) had been detected in 80% of Alopecia Totalis sufferers. The same studies also demonstrated that individuals affected by this disease as well Alopecia Universalis had an increase in their levels of white blood cells antigen DR4 (DRB1*0401) and HLA DQ7 (DQB1*0301).

What are the symptoms? And how does the condition progress?

The most obvious symptom of Alopecia Totalis is excessive hair loss on the scalp – other symptoms are rare and will often vary among individuals.

Alopecia Totalis usually progresses as follows:

i. The hair on the scalp starts to become thinner.
ii. A gradual or sudden receding hair line appears.
iii. A few bald patches develop.

Within approximately six months from the beginning of hair loss, an individual suffering from Alopecia Totalis may become totally bald.

The psychological effects

This type of autoimmune condition does not cause physical pain and will not usually impair physical health. However, losing patches of hair can take a great toll on a person’s psychological health – this, in turn, can speed up hair loss.

Are there any tests or diagnosis available?

Since having Alopecia Totalis implies losing one’s hair and appears in the skin of the scalp, it is considered as a type of skin disorder. This is why dermatologists have a significant role to play in diagnosing this hair issue.

In order to make the diagnosis and decide which type of Alopecia Totalis the patient is suffering from, the dermatologist will take a close look at the patient’s scalp and examine the patterns of hair loss.

Generally, the way to detect any problem is through a scalp biopsy and several blood tests or diagnostic examinations which always prove to be useful. Blood samples are taken to investigate the reason as to why the individual’s immune system is attacking the hair follicles, thus resulting in Alopecia Totalis.

I suffer from Alopecia Totalis. Can I use natural means to recover?

Managing hair loss as a result of Alopecia Totalis can be done using different treatment options. However, once this disease has caused total loss of scalp hair, it is not an easy task to regrow the hair. In the majority of cases, the hair loss is unfortunately permanent.

This being said there are natural treatments that you may want to try after getting the green lights from your doctor. If possible, work with a naturopathic doctor or naturopathic dietitian with experience in autoimmune disorders. These specialists will be able to design a protocol that is tailored to your needs.

Below are some natural treatments that are usually used in the treatment of Alopecia Totalis. Remember that for any treatment to be effective, you would need to target the root cause of your condition – this will involve improving your diet and lifestyle.

• Essential oils

Mix one drop of different essential oils such as cedar wood, lavender and rosemary in a carrier oil like pure, unscented almond oil which is naturally rich in vitamin E. You may also choose to use essential oils of thyme, rosemary, lavender, and cedar wood, in a base of grape seed and jojoba oils. These oils can help stimulate your follicles and promote the growth of hair.

How to use:

i. Make sure to combine the essential oil in a carrier oil – do not use essential oils directly on your skin as this may lead to skin burns and allergic reactions.
ii. Proceed by gently massaging this concoction onto your scalp.

• Primula Obconica (Poison Primrose)

This popular winter and spring flowering plant can come in handy for those trying to help their hair grow naturally. The leaves of the plant have been found to release substances that irritate the skin. In doing so, an allergic reaction occurs which can help stimulate the growth of new hair. However, more research is needed to confirm this.

• Folkloric herbal treatment

So far, no specific herbs that have stood out as being truly effective in treating Alopecia Totalis. However, you may be interested to know that those who suffer from this condition often rely on the ingredients of Siwu Tang (Tang-kuei Four Combination, comprised of tang-kuei, peony, cnidium, and rehmannia). Ho-shou-wu, ligustrum, morus fruit and biota leaf, known to stop one’s hair from becoming grey, are also often used.

• Hypnosis

In recent times, studies have revealed that hypnosis can also be very helpful in reversing Alopecia Totalis in some individuals. However, you should not use this as your main treatment as it is helpful only when utilized in parallel with another remedy. Hypnosis may help you manage your level of stress and tension – this can, in turn, increase the success rate of the treatment.

What medical treatments are available for those suffering from this issue?

Before you go for any of the treatments listed below, please make sure to discuss your options with your physician.

Below are several treatments which are available:

Immunotherapy

In immunotherapy, the normal chemical responses that occur in a person’s body are used to treat Alopecia Totalis. In this particular treatment, a specific substance that provokes allergic reactions, is carefully applied onto the patient’s scalp. The patient’s body then responds by producing anti-allergen chemicals. These chemicals stimulate the hair follicles to produce new hair.

• Side-effects of immunotherapy

Although this is the most common way to treat Alopecia Totalis, it has some side effects such as rashes, fever and drops in blood pressure. Less common side effects include thyroid problems and gastrointestinal problems like colitis.

Steroid Therapy

If you decide to undergo steroid therapy, doctors will usually prescribe steroid pills or steroids in the form of creams. These creams or gels will then be applied onto your scalp to boost hair growth. In the beginning, this kind of therapy starts with mild dosages and then it gradually progresses with treatments which are more aggressive.

Some individuals may also opt for injections – these involve injecting steroids directly in the hair follicles of the patient. The hair will grow back after multiple injections.

• Side-effects of steroid therapy

After years of steroid therapy, patients reported having infections, allergic reactions, bleeding in their joints, rupture of their tendons and skin discoloration.

Drugs such as Rogaine (Minoxidil)

Medications such as Rogaine (more commonly known as ‘Minoxidil) are often used to treat mild cases of Alopecia Totalis. The drug works by slowing hair loss and enhancing hair re-growth. However, Minoxidil is not a wonder drug and will only be effective in cases where a person has not become completely bald.

• Side-effects of Minoxidil

The skin area treated with Minoxidil will often itch and feel sensitive. As if this wasn’t bad enough, hair may also start to grow on other parts of the body. Furthermore, many patients have reported an exacerbation of hair loss after using this substance. Minoxidil may also cause dandruff.

Photochemotherapy (PUVA)

Short for Psoralen combined with Ultraviolet A (UVA), PUVA therapy involves combining a medicine known as a psoralen with UVA light. The psoralen makes the skin more sensitive to UV light and is usually taken as a pill or by putting it directly on the skin to be treated. The skin is then exposed to UVA. Normal hair growth is restored by reducing the Langerhans cells (antigen-presenting immune cells) through the use of long-wave ultraviolet light.

PUVA treatments usually last for 4 to 6 months and are used when other treatments cannot be utilized or have not been effective.

• Side-effects of PUVA

Short-term effects associated with PUVA include itching and redness of the skin as well as nausea due to the psoralen. Headaches and burns are also common.

As you may have noticed, the treatments described above have quite a few drawbacks as well as potentially dangerous side effects. This is why you would greatly benefit from considering the natural options outlined earlier. Now, let’s move to some frequently asked questions.

Can you tell me where to find a good specialist who will help me recover from this issue?

For those fortunate people who are still in the early stages of Alopecia Aerata, the Belgravia Clinic, found in London, proposes a personalized and highly effective treatment plan. Depending on the seriousness of the condition, this plan has proved to be tremendously successful.

Unfortunately, the Belgravia Clinic will be not able to give you advice on Alopecia Totalis. The only advice that they may offer you is to consult your GP. You may wish to know that they have dedicated a special page to talk about current and possible treatments for the disorder that you are suffering from. For more information, kindly visit this page.

What is the rate of recovery among Alopecia Totalis sufferers? Do you know people who have successfully been treated? How will I know if I have recovered?

Unfortunately, Alopecia Totalis is a totally unpredictable disease. You will never really know whether you have successfully treated your problem of hair loss or not. Some people who have suffered from Alopecia Totalis have sadly confessed that after losing all their scalp hair, they had a full re-growth and just when they thought that the tough times were behind them, they lost all their hair once again. Some even lost all their hair and witnessed a full re-growth several times!

However, don’t let this bring you down. What happens to a specific person cannot be used to predict the fate of another one. Just because this occurred to some, does not mean that the same is awaiting you. We hope that you will be among the lucky ones who recover completely from Alopecia Totalis and never have to face hair loss again.

According to some research studies, it appears that the prognosis for hair regrowth is positive in individuals who:

• • Have had Alopecia Totalis less than two years.
  • Are not affected by an atopy such as asthma; allergic rhinitis or hay fever; or atopic dermatitis also known as eczema.

Unfortunately, individuals who experience severe changes in their nails usually have a poorer prognosis in terms of full recovery from Alopecia Totalis.

Once I have treated my hair disorder, can it come back? What are the regrowth signs?

As explained in the previous question, nobody can predict what will happen to an individual suffering from Alopecia Totalis. Once a person experiences this condition and recovers from it, the probability for it to occur once again is, unfortunately, really high.

Alopecia Totalis is a disease which lasts at least two years. Since it is not very responsive to therapy, chances that you see a spontaneous regrowth are quite low. And even if your hair grows back, the probability that you will face another hair loss episode still exists.

What we can advise you to do is to start following a proper diet. This will definitely have a positive impact on your hair. If you are experiencing early signs of Alopecia Totalis, try to include loads of foods which are rich in vitamins into your daily diet. Further hair loss can be prevented if your diet comprises vitamins A, B and D as well as nutrients like iodine, iron and copper. Moreover, some experts have come forward saying that adopting a gluten-free diet can also help greatly in hair growth. That’s because gluten is known to increase intestinal permeability which can further hamper your immune system.

Is it hereditary disease?

When scientists dug deeper into the reasons that may predispose a person to develop Alopecia Totalis, they discovered that hereditary factors may have a role to play in triggering this disease. They found that hair loss issues and the presence of abnormal genes were closely linked.

Since it is believed that Alopecia Totalis has a genetic influence on a person, there is a higher chance that when you get married, your sons and daughters could also end up facing the same issues. However, following a healthy, real food diet during pregnancy can improve your baby’s genes according to the science of epigenetics.

Can it cause hair loss?

Unfortunately, yes. Please check the section ‘Alopecia Totalis – What is it all about?’ above.

Can I recover completely from this episode? How long will it take?

According to an article that appeared in ‘The Telegraph’ on the 17th August 2014, scientists have been working on a pill that may reverse Alopecia baldness. These pills enabled three patients who had lost their hair due to the condition to regrow all the hair they had lost.

After carefully identifying which immune cells caused the destruction of hair follicles in people suffering from Alopecia, some doctors decided to conduct a pilot trial. They thus put three patients on a drug called ‘ruxolitinib’ and after four to five months, all of them completely got back their scalp hair. However, the doctors said that more tests would have to be done before this drug can be safely used to treat baldness.

Can essential oils help?

Yes, they can definitely be of great help. Please check ‘I suffer from Alopecia Totalis. Can I use natural means to recover?’ above. However, remember to work with a naturopathic doctor or naturopathic dietitian.

Is it contagious?

Fortunately, you do not have to worry about contaminating others because you are suffering from Alopecia Totalis. Rest assured that this rare disease is not contagious as it is not the result of a bacterial or viral infection.

Can acupuncture be used to treat it?

After extensive research, experts concluded that Alopecia sufferers could benefit a lot from traditional Chinese medicine. If you decide to try this out, you will be given Chinese herbal medicine and topical creams. You will also be asked to make some modifications to the way you eat and you will be advised to undergo acupuncture sessions. In some cases, it was found that acupuncture therapy helped a great deal with hair re-growth.

Related articles:

• 12 Quick and Simple Tips for Preventing Male Yeast Infections
• Metabolites, Immune Function, and Candida
• Can Bentonite Clay Get Rid of Candida?
• How Can Peppermint Help Against Candida Infection?
• Loss of Appetite And Candida: Is There A Connection?

Take home messages

Alopecia Totalis is a usually painless, non-contagious, autoimmune disease that typically progresses at different rates in different individuals. While some sufferers may vanquish the condition, others may not be as lucky: some individuals may even go through numerous episodes of hair regrowth followed by hair fall.

Quite a few medical treatments are available but most of them come with unpleasant side effects which is why many sufferers opt for natural options. However, keep in mind that the efficacy of natural treatments will vary among individuals. This will greatly depend on factors such as length of complaint, resistance to the condition, the underlying constitution of the Alopecia sufferer as well as the patient’s compliance.

If you or a loved one is suffering from Alopecia Totalis, know that you are not alone even if this condition is quite rare. To improve the success of your treatment, make sure to work with a healthcare professional with experience in autoimmune conditions and how to manage these naturally.

Chad has had recurring sinus infections, headaches, and chronic fatigue for over eight months. He was not getting clear answers from research or visits to the doctor, and was concerned about age as he was in his later thirties. He reached out to ask us if his health concerns could be related to candida. Though his symptoms are related to a potential yeast infection, there are other immune and health-related possibilities.

Sinus Infections

Heavier mucus blocks the nasal cavities, and bacteria, viruses, and fungi can become stuck and cause sinus infections. Sinusitis occurs when the nasal cavities are inflamed and swollen. Mucus is thicker, and sometimes green or yellow. The sinus cavities can be painful with a constant, dull pressure that can extend from the cheekbones to the forehead, and often cause headaches.

The most well-known cause of sinus infections is viral. A cold creates inflammation in the nasal cavities, and the inflammation does not always go down even when the cold is gone. Sinus membranes can swell into polyps and cause further mucus blockage.

Many people can mistake a sinus infection for a cold, as it can create a sick feeling in the body. Postnasal drip, where mucus escapes down the back of the throat, can cause painful throats and difficulty swallowing. Coughing and a tickle at the back of the throat are also common. These symptoms are often related to a cold, but may strictly be sinusitis.

Allergies can worsen into sinusitis as the body attacks itself. The body becomes inflamed with an allergic reaction, and the immune system responds to the allergens with cold-like symptoms.

Invasive or excessive fungus can cause continual sinus infections. Fungi like to grow in damp, dark areas of the body, and if mucus becomes thick or blocked, they can overgrow. Other symptoms with a fungal infection include headache, vision problems, and fever.

Related articles:

• Is Your Discharge Normal?
• Multiple Yeast Infections Have Tried Everything
• Everything You Need To Know About Candida Auris
• Feeling Fatigue, Low Immune System And Mood Instability
• Candida Case Studies: Meet Jill
• Can Candida Cause Hair Loss & Constipation?

Fungal infections in other parts of the body, including yeast overgrowth, can cause sinusitis. Mayo Clinic conducted a study of 210 people with chronic sinus infections and found 40 different forms of fungi in 96% of participants.

If a fungal infection seems likely, taking a cleanse that will focus both on destroying excess Candida and support the nasal passageways can promote a multi-layer healing process. CanXida Remove has ingredients such as oregano and grapefruit seed oil that promote healthy nasal function.

Bacterial infections do not generally cause sinusitis, however if mucus becomes thicker and clogged, bacteria is able to grow. Yellow or green mucus may indicate a bacterial infection, and these can prolong sinus congestion and pain.

Nasal polyps and tooth infections are other possible health concerns that can lead to sinus infections. Excessive exposure to chlorine may irritate the naval cavities as well. Diving creates a change in pressure, which can inflame the sinuses, thus blocking them and providing a space for fungi, bacteria, and viruses to build up. Dry areas and dehydration can also lead to unhealthy mucus function and provide a space for pathogens to grow. Sinus decongestants used for several days can have the opposite effect of clogging up nasal passageways instead of clearing them.

Make sure to watch Susan’s candida case study – Chronic Headache & Sinusitis

Headaches

Headaches can result from sinus infections. Pressure and swelling in the nasal cavities will result in headaches, painful ears, and even gum discomfort. Headaches may also occur if breathing is blocked or more difficult. When the air passageways through the nose are blocked, particularly if nasal polyps are present, the lack of oxygen will affect the head.

Candida and headaches are closely linked. Heart palpitations, sore muscles, and pain in the body are other symptoms of yeast infections that are common with headaches. Allergies that cause headaches may link to yeast overgrowth. Candida strains the digestive and immune system, and allergies can develop as the body mistakes food and drink particles as harmful.

Alcohol, aged cheeses, and caffeine feed yeast and can create an overgrowth. If a headache or migraine is experienced shortly after consuming certain drinks and foods such as the above, consider removing the food and trying a candida cleanse diet to see if symptoms remain the same, improve, or worsen. If they worsen, this may be a die-off effect where yeast cells release toxins as they die. Worse symptoms on a candida diet is a strong indicator of a yeast infection, and the symptoms will improve seven to ten days, on average, when continuing the diet.

Migraines are mistaken for headaches, but can last for multiple days, be felt on one part of the head, and creates nausea, vomiting, or vision problems. Alcohol, caffeine, menstrual cramps, and stress can trigger migraines, but candida may be a deeper source if the migraines occur on a regular basis. If yeast escapes the digestive lining, it may clot the blood and prevent healthy circulation. Poor blood flow can cause numbness, and headaches.

The medical and scientific fields are studying probiotics more often, and learning that they can affect the entire body. This includes head-related health such as mood, headaches, and fatigue. When probiotic strains are low or absent, bad bacteria and candida can overgrow in the gut and affect the entire body.

Fatigue

Similar to sinus infections, fatigue may be the result of many underlying health problems.

Stress, sleep deprivation, and anxiety can contribute to fatigue. Candida can also affect adrenal function, which regulates energy and stress levels. Bad bacteria overgrowth in the gut weakens the immune system and makes the digestive tract work harder to cleanse the body.

If the immune system is constantly fighting candida, the body becomes worn out. The digestive tract and immune system work hand in hand, so poor nutrition and other factors may weaken the body’s ability to fight allergies, viruses, and bacterial infections in addition to yeast fungal infections.

Related articles:

• Candida Case Studies: Meet Susan
• Candida Case Studies: Meet Kaye
• Can Amoxicillin Cause Yeast Infections?
• Geotrichum and Yeast Infection: Are They Connected?
• Is Labored Breathing a Sign of Candida?
• Can Candida Cause Itching Arms?

For those who always feel sick, experience bloating, or have had fatigue last longer than six months, candida overgrowth is a likely problem. Additional yeast infection symptoms that often relate to fatigue are brain fog, memory and concentration concerns, and painful or sore muscles.

If going through a candida cleanse, keep in mind that die-off effects include headaches and fatigue. Taking Molybdenum, or temporarily lowering the intake of any candida cleansing supplements, and getting plenty of rest can help lessen die-off symptoms.

What Does the Gallbladder Do?

The gallbladder is largely a storage container for bile produced by the liver.  Bile is a mixture of salts, bile acids, phospholipids such as lecithin, cholesterol (produced in the liver), bilirubin and a number of other substances.  Bilirubin, which gives bile its yellowish-green color, is a breakdown product of hemoglobin, the iron-containing protein that carries oxygen to the cells and carbon dioxide to the lungs.

Bile acids or bile salts are essentially a detergent to allow for fat absorption—and fat excretion.  One of the main routes for lowering cholesterol levels is via the bile. Another vital function of bile is to help excrete various toxins that are either a natural by-product of cellular metabolism or come from other non-natural sources such as drugs, environmental toxins and toxins produced by bacteria, viruses and fungi like Candida.

The bile produced by the liver enters the gallbladder through either the cystic duct or the common bile duct and, after meals, flows into the first part of the small intestine (the duodenum) to mix with the partially digested foods and support the absorption of fats. Gastric hormones such as cholecystokinin (ko-le-sisto-kinin) and others stimulate the gall bladder to release the bile.

Related articles:

• Your Decision to Eat Soy is a Personal Choice
• Always Disconnected & Dizzy: Is It Candida?
• Benefits Of Swedish Bitter For Stomach Pain And Cramps?
• Recurring Ringworm: Can It Be Candida?
• Everything You Need To Know About Candida Glabrata
• Oral Yeast Infection (Oral Thrush) Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Gallbladder Disorders

Most gallstone disorders are due to the formation of gallstones.  These are the solidified bile acids and bile salts that also contain cholesterol. Medically, gallstones that are found inside the gallbladder causes a condition known as cholelithiasis (ko-le-lith-i-asis).  Cholelithiasis usually is painless.  However, these gallstones can move into the ducts and cause blockage. These solid stones within the ducts can produce a number of symptoms, including pain that is usually under the ribs on the right side of the abdomen. This condition is called either choledocholisthiasis (ko-le-do-ko-lith-i-asis) or cholangitis (ko-lan-ji-tis).  A more common term is biliary colic.  Biliary colic is an inflammatory condition and can cause further inflammation of the gallbladder itself—this is called cholecystitis. (ko-le-sis-titis).  The bile can also be blocked by tumors and by opportunistic infections that can cause the ducts to get constricted and “knotted up”.  This constriction also restricts the flow of bile.¹

Biliary Colic

The pain associated with biliary colic can be “here today and gone tomorrow”, but when it appears as biliary colic, it can be severe.  The pain may also be related to what you are eating and how much you are eating.  The pain is usually described as intense and dull (as compared to a sharp, stabbing pain) and usually begins during or right after a meal, getting worse and worse over about 30 minutes.  The pain can be associated with heavy sweating and can last anywhere from 1-5 hours. You may also have pain in your mid-back, or your right shoulder. It is not relieved by antacids, vomiting (which can occur during the worst of the pain), having a bowel movement, passing gas or changing your position.²

Gallstones

Most gallstones are mainly made up of cholesterol. If the liver is secreting a high level of cholesterol and the cholesterol gets highly concentrated in the gallbladder, cholesterol-containing gallstones can occur.  Other gallstones contain high levels of calcium, bilirubin and pigments.  Gallstones can also be mixed, containing cholesterol and calcium salts. Many times, gallstones do not cause any symptoms at all.  If the gallstones do cause pain, it is called biliary colic and usually begins suddenly during or right after a meal.

Cholecystitis

Cholecystitis is an acute inflammatory condition with shaper pain in the upper right part of the body (beneath the ribs).  Cholecystitis also usually comes with a fever, nausea, vomiting, a rapid heart rate and sweating, sometimes profuse sweating. The pain can feel as if it is also coming from your right shoulder or right side of your back. The pain often begins after a meal, commonly a large or fatty meal such as fried chicken.

What are the Risk Factors for Gallbladder Disorders?

Gallstones are more common in women and are associated with obesity, pregnancy and increasing age.  Other risk factors include ethnic background—white, American-Indian and Mexican ethnic backgrounds tend to increase your risk.  In addition, diets that are high in fat or cholesterol can put you at a higher risk for gallstones.  Another risk factor is rapid weight loss. Gallstones are also closely associated with metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and high levels of triglycerides and other fats in the blood. Some medications are also associated with a higher risk of gallstones—these medications include oral contraceptives and some medications that are meant to lower blood cholesterol—these include clofibrate and other fibrate-type drugs. People with certain blood disorders such as sickle cell anemia and hereditary blood disorders including hereditary spherocytosis and beta-thalassemia. Intestinal disorders like Crohn’s disease can also increase the risk of gallstones.

How are Gallbladder Disorders and Gallstones Diagnosed and Treated?

Gallstones can be diagnosed using contrast imaging such as a hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid (HIDA) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). If gallstones are detected during an ERCP, they can be removed during the procedure.³ If the gallstones are relatively small, medications can sometimes be prescribed that can dissolve the stones. Treatment often includes surgery—sometimes to remove the entire gallbladder, depending on the severity of a person’s condition.  If the gallbladder is removed, a person should consider using special supplements containing (often) bile acids and various other substances such as lecithin and enzymes to help digest and absorb fats.  Technically, one doesn’t need a gallbladder to survive, but taking these specialized supplements can help prevent diarrhea that often occurs after gallbladder removal and can help ensure that you can digest and absorb fats (and, importantly, fat-soluble vitamins such as Vitamin D, E, A and K).

Cholecystitis, inflammation of the gallbladder, is usually caused by gallstones.  It can usually be diagnosed by a combination of the types of symptoms, blood tests and various imaging tests such as a HIDA scan.  The HIDA scan can follow the production and flow of bile from the liver to the gallbladder and small intestine.  This scan uses a radioactive contrast dye into your body and can reveal gallstones and other blocks to the flow of bile.  Most people with cholecystitis are admitted to the hospital and often given pain medication.  They may also get antibiotics if there is evidence of an infection.  You won’t get any food though—the idea is that fasting will give your gallbladder a “break”.⁴ Surgery may also be needed.

Candida and Gallbladder Disorders

In the mainstream medical literature, there are relatively few reports of gallbladder disease that is directly related to invasive candida infections or to recurring candida infections. In most reports where candida is found in either the liver or the gallbladder, the patients have either undergone surgery, have had a transplant or are immune suppressed in some way, including HIV-AIDs infections.⁵ Gallstones are rarely associated with the presence of Candida.⁶

Immune suppression can occur in a number of ways that don’t always become clinical—the suppression is termed “subclinical”. People with sub-clinical immune suppression can have antibodies to Candida in their blood that precedes cancers of the blood.⁷ It is also likely that people with chronic and/or recurrent candida infections can be diagnosed with one of the disorders generally characterized as chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis, or CMC. CMC is considered as an external readout of a number of immune or hormonal disorders with a concurrent impaired immune response to Candida. One study of 14 patients with CMC found rather broad immune deficiencies.⁸

So, while there is not a lot of medical literature available at this point, it is theoretically possible that individuals with gallbladder disorders or recurrent episodes of gallstones, especially with a combination of the risk factors listed above, may also be at risk for candida infections.  The reverse may also be true—those with recurrent candida infections may be at higher risk for gallbladder disorders.   While there are currently few reports providing solid evidence that candida can transform in the body to the mycelial form, forming invasive hyphae,⁹ it is possible that candida overgrowth could result in liver and gallbladder damage and predispose individuals to gallbladder disorders and gallstones, particularly in those with subclinical immune suppression and more overt immune suppression.

Related articles:

• Finding the Root Cause – My Personal Experience with Thumbtack Disease
• Everything You Need To Know About Candida Auris
• Can Candida Cause Canker Sores?
• Unexplained Joint Pains & Candida Connection
• Candida Case Studies: Meet Ann
• Is Labored Breathing a Sign of Candida?

Preventing Gallbladder Disorders and Gallstones

Dietary approaches can both help boost the immune system and minimize the risk of developing gallbladder disorders and gallstones.  Boosting the immune system can be vital to controlling recurrent candida infections, can help repopulate the gut with helpful bacteria (which can also limit candida growth) and can reduce any stresses on the liver.  In addition, avoiding fatty foods (but ensuring that you get enough healthy fats); increasing the fiber in your diet; maintaining a healthy weight and losing weight slowly if you need or want to; and including nuts in your diet can all help to minimize your risk of gallstones.

A candida-reducing diet should be a low-sugar diet because candida loves sugar almost or maybe more than you do!  You should also avoid all processed foods or better yet, eat all organic foods to minimize your exposure to immune-suppressing additives and pesticides. Increase the amount of fiber in your diet and avoid any fatty foods, especially fried foods.  Your fats should come from fish or from plant sources (eg. olive oil).  Include fermented foods and/or probiotic foods to replenish and support healthy gut bacterial.  Include nuts for their healthy fats and high levels of vitamins and minerals. Include anti-fungal herbs such as onions, garlic, ginger, cinnamon, oregano (and oregano oil), and turmeric.

So while the science has not yet caught up with the experience of people with candida, following the dietary approaches will help boost your immune system and decrease your candida load.  In addition, if you ARE at risk for gallstones, these approaches can decrease that risk. Finally, don’t forget to exercise AND get plenty of rest!

Here is a video of Eric Bakker explaining how to do a proper Gallbladder Cleanse.

References

https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/hepatic-and-biliary-disorders/gallbladder-and-bile-duct-disorders/overview-of-biliary-function

https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/175667-overview

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gallstones/basics/tests-diagnosis/con-20020461

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cholecystitis/basics/treatment/con-20034277

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3778129

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11469952

Verduyn Lunel, FM et al, Circulating Candida antibodies precede invasive candidiasis in patients with haematological malignancy.  # O107 Accessed at: https://www.blackwellpublishing.com/eccmid17/pdfs/clm_1732.pdf (8/2016)

Lilic D, Gravenor I, Robson N, Lammas DA, Drysdale P, Calvert JE, et al. Deregulated production of protective cytokines in response to Candida albicans infection in patients with chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis. Infect Immun. 2003 Oct. 71(10):5690-9.

Lopez-Ribot, JL. et al, Characterization of Cell Wall Proteins of Yeast and Hydrophobic Mycelial Cells of Candida albicans. Accessed at: https://iai.asm.org/content/59/7/2324.full.pdf (8/2016)

Both men and women are prone to discharges. Understanding normal discharge versus potential infections, including candida, are important to maintain a healthy body. Color, smell, and thickness will vary depending on hormones, and are not necessarily the sign of an infection.

Related articles:

• Fatty Liver And Candida Infection: Is it Connected?
• Recurring Ringworm: Can It Be Candida?
• Can I Have Sex If I Have a Vaginal Yeast Infection?
• Exploring the Vaginal Implant Protocol for Chronic Vaginal Thrush
• 10 Simple & Quick Tips for Crushing Female Yeast Infections
• Geotrichum and Yeast Infection: Are They Connected?

Normal Discharge

In women, discharge is a normal process as the body removes bad bacteria and dead cells from the vaginal canals. This discharge appears thin in consistency and soft white to clear in color. Mood, ovulation, sexual arousal, birth control, and pregnancy are all factors that can affect the appearance and scent of discharge.

White flecks, stringy consistency, yellow or cloudy white colors can be normal. Excessive discharge is not typically a concern, either, as this can occur at any point during the month, after sex, or when pregnant.

In men, mucus-like fluid is normal in an erect penis or when sexually aroused. Uncircumcised men may collect smegma: a white curd-like substance produced by the small glands that collects under the foreskin. Other penile discharges tend to signify inflammation in the urethra, which can be caused by bacterial, yeast, and other infections.

Unusual Discharges

While yeast infections, especially in women, are one of the most common causes for abnormal discharges, bacterial infections, parasites, and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are other possibilities–especially in penile discharge. Antibiotics, poor diet and hygiene, and other factors can cause bacteria overgrowth in the gut and reproductive system. Even with safe sex practices, STDs/STIs may still be transmitted.

Discharge from infections may also occur by douching the vaginal area, which cleans out the good bacteria and other supportive organisms. Reactions to scented soaps, lotions, and bubble baths may be culprits for infections as well. Pelvic surgeries leave the area exposed for bacteria, especially if the area is not well cleaned during the healing process.

Sometimes, discharge may not represent an infection, but still signify a necessary change in lifestyle. Dehydration, stress, and pH balance can cause abnormal discharges in the body. For example, dehydration tends to make discharge thicker. Ongoing stress and imbalanced pH levels can lead to candida overgrowth.

Yeast Infection Signs

A thick, clumpy white discharge might signify a yeast infection. It may be odorless or have a yeasty smell like beer or bread. In women, itching, swelling, or painful sexual intercourse are additional signs. While most symptoms and discussion focus on women’s health, yeast infections in men are possible, but more difficult to recognize. Painful sexual intercourse, itching or swelling at the head of the penis, small red bumps that itch, and a lumpy white discharge under the foreskin are symptoms of yeast infections in men. Excessive antibiotic use, poor diet, diabetes, a lack of exercise, and other factors can lead to candida overgrowth.

Anyone undergoing a candida cleanse may experience discharge that is thick or yellow, however this is usually the body cleansing itself, and there will be no other symptoms.

Signs of Other Infections

While many people associate unusual discharge with a yeast infection, it can be a result of different diseases. Bacterial infection discharges may be white, but could be gray or yellow, and may cause burning, itching, redness and/or swelling in the pelvic area. A fishy odor is often present. In women, signs of a bacterial infection may represent a more serious condition, pelvic inflammatory disease, where the reproductive organs are affected.

STDs and STIs such as gonorrhea will show cloudy or yellow discharges, and cause bleeding between periods along with pelvic pain. Discharge from trichomoniasis can appear frothy yellow or green, and have a foul smell.

Female-specific discharges can be brown or with light blood, and include pelvic pain and abnormal bleeding. This usually signifies irregular menstrual cycles. If cycles have been regular, it may be a sign of endometrial or cervical cancer. Pink discharges may occur when the uterine lining sheds after childbirth.

Probiotics and Healthy Practices

Probiotics are good bacteria that suppress bad bacteria and candida from overgrowing. Probiotic creams are available to use externally, however research and accessibility to these creams is limited. Probiotic creams may be helpful for men, as the cream can be applied to the skin. Women should be cautious of using topical probiotic creams, as added ingredients may further irritate the vaginal area.

Another option is to take internal probiotics with enteric coating capsules, which will bypass stomach acidity and settle in the intestines where they can reduce bad bacteria and yeast overgrowth. Women may insert a probiotic capsule into their vaginal canal once a day for more direct contact. Some women experience further irritation with this method, and should stop application at once. We recommend Canxida Cream and Canxida Restore (probiotic formula).

Related articles:

• Chronic Vaginal Yeast Infections: Finding the Right Diagnosis
• Everything You Need To Know About Candida Auris
• 3 Main Causes Of Vaginal Inflammation
• Is Labored Breathing a Sign of Candida?
• 10 Simple & Quick Tips for Crushing Female Yeast Infections
• Candida Case Studies: Meet Kaye

Healthy Practices

To help avoid irregular discharges, good hygiene can be maintained by wearing cotton underwear, loose clothing, and not shaving away pubic hair. Women should wipe from the front toward the back after using the restroom to prevent bacteria from entering the vagina. Avoid douching and perfumed menstrual products, and prevent scented soap from contacting the vaginal area.