What causes Recurring Thrush?
Published: October 14, 2024
Post Author: Victoria Tyler
What causes Recurring Thrush?
Recently, I saw a 32-year-old patient, Anne who came to me for advice on managing recurrent thrush. Over the past six months, she had self-treated with over-the-counter remedies eight times, yet the infections kept returning. Frustrated and concerned, she wanted to understand why the recurrent thrush continued to come back and how she could prevent future outbreaks.
This situation is quite common among women dealing with recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC). While over-the-counter treatments may provide temporary relief, they often don’t address the underlying factors contributing to the recurrent infections.
Why Do I Keep Getting Thrush every month? Understanding Recurring Thrush
Thrush is a common yet often misunderstood condition caused by an overgrowth of the Candida fungus, typically Candida albicans. While it can affect anyone, many women experience it frequently, If you’ve had multiple episodes of thrush in a year, you may be dealing with recurrent thrush.
Common Symptoms of Recurrent Thrush
Recurrent thrush is characterized by a range of symptoms that often persist or recur. Symptoms can include:
- Itching and irritation: This can interfere with daily activities.
- Burning sensation: This can occur, especially during urination or intercourse.
- Abnormal discharge: Typically thick, white, and resembling cottage cheese, it may also have a yeasty odor.
- Redness and swelling: The vaginal area may appear inflamed or irritated.
- Pain during intercourse: Many women experience discomfort during sex due to irritation and inflammation.
- Sugar and Yeast cravings: craving for chocolates, pizza and beer
- Low immunity: Feeling like you are constantly getting colds and flus and sore throats
What causes recurring Thrush?
Recurrent thrush can be caused by a number of factors:
Antibiotics can kill beneficial bacteria in the gut and vagina, disrupting the natural balance and allowing Candida to proliferate.
High Sugar Intake: Diets high in sugar and refined carbohydrates can promote yeast growth, as sugar is a primary food source for Candida.
Yeast-Containing Foods: Consuming foods that contain yeast, such as bread and alcohol, can also contribute to overgrowth.
Menstrual Cycle: Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can create an environment conducive to Candida growth.
Hormonal Medications: Birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy can affect vaginal pH and increase susceptibility to infections
Chronic Stress High stress levels can affect immune function, leading to increased susceptibility to infections.
Sexual Activity: Sexual contact can lead to the transmission of Candida between partners. Men can carry the fungus without symptoms, perpetuating the cycle of reinfection.
Why does Thrush keep coming back?
Anne had also sought help from her GP, who prescribed fluconazole to treat the thrush. While the antifungal medication worked initially, once again she found that the infections returned and thrush kept coming back shortly after completing treatment. Despite temporarily relieving her symptoms, the root cause of the issue wasn’t fully addressed, leading to recurrent episodes of thrush.
I explained to Anne that the missing link in her treatment plan was likely her diet. While medication can treat the immediate infection, a high-sugar diet can fuel Candida overgrowth, making the thrush more likely to return.
Thrush loves sugar and so did Anne!
A challenge Anne faced was the sheer exhaustion of life with a toddler, which made it even harder to resist sugary snacks. Like many busy mothers, she was often tired and reached for quick energy boosts—usually in the form of sweet treats. We talked about how her constant fatigue might be driving those sugar cravings, which in turn could be fueling the Candida overgrowth.
Anne hadn’t realized how much her tiredness and snacking habits were contributing to the recurring infections. Understanding this connection helped her see that reducing sugar wasn’t just about managing her diet—it was about addressing the root cause of her energy dips as well.
To help Anne manage both her energy levels and reduce her sugar intake, we focused on making key adjustments to her diet. I suggested increasing her intake of protein, vegetables, and whole grains, like brown rice, which would provide more sustained energy throughout the day.
When cravings hit, especially in those tired moments, we talked about swapping out sugary snacks for small portions of fruit and nuts to satisfy her sweet tooth in a healthier way. This approach helped Anne feel more in control of her diet while supporting her body in reducing the conditions that allowed Candida to thrive. By balancing her meals and including more whole, nutrient-rich foods, she found that not only did her energy improve, but her thrush became easier to manage as well.
I put together a tailored 4 week candida diet plan for Anne, focused on reducing Candida overgrowth, supporting her immune system, and managing recurrent thrush. This plan emphasizes a low-sugar, anti-inflammatory diet with balanced nutrients to help restore gut health, alongside antifungal supplements and probiotics.
Anne’s Candida-Diet Plan with snacks
General Guidelines:
- Eliminate sugar: Avoid refined sugars, sugary drinks, sweets, and processed foods. Sugars fuel Candida growth.
- Avoid yeast and fermented foods: Such as bread, alcohol, vinegar-based foods, and mushrooms, which can aggravate Candida.
- Focus on whole foods: Prioritize unprocessed, nutrient-dense foods to support the immune system.
- Increase fiber and protein: To stabilize blood sugar levels and avoid Candida feeding on sugar spikes.
Daily Meal Plan Outline
Breakfast:
- Option 1: Scrambled eggs with spinach, avocado, and a sprinkle of sea salt. Serve with a side of sautéed mushrooms or courgettes
- Option 2: Smoothie with unsweetened almond milk, a handful of spinach or kale, a tablespoon of ground flaxseeds, and half a green apple for light sweetness.
- Option 3: Chia pudding made with unsweetened coconut milk, chia seeds, and topped with a small portion of berries (like blueberries) for added antioxidants.
Snack:
- Option 1: A small handful of raw almonds or walnuts (unsalted).
- Option 2: Cucumber slices with guacamole or hummus.
- Option 3: Hard-boiled egg with a sprinkle of paprika or black pepper.
Lunch:
- Option 1: Grilled chicken breast or tofu with mixed greens, cucumber, tomatoes, and olive oil with lemon dressing.
- Option 2: Lentil soup with added vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach.
- Option 3: Quinoa salad with steamed broccoli, avocado, and a drizzle of tahini sauce.
Snack:
- Option 1: Sliced vegetables (like bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrots) with hummus.
- Option 2: Pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds (rich in zinc for immune support).
- Option 3: A handful of roasted chickpeas with paprika and olive oil.
Dinner:
- Option 1: Baked salmon with steamed green beans and a side of brown rice or quinoa.
- Option 2: Stir-fried chicken or tofu with mixed vegetables (broccoli, zucchini, carrots) in coconut oil, seasoned with garlic and ginger.
- Option 3: Grilled turkey burgers on a bed of lettuce with roasted sweet potato wedges and sautéed kale.
Snack (optional):
- Option 1: Small serving of unsweetened coconut yogurt with a sprinkle of chia seeds.
- Option 2: A cup of herbal tea (ginger, peppermint) to aid digestion.
Foods to Emphasize:
- Proteins: Organic poultry, fish, eggs, tofu, and legumes to support immune function.
- Healthy Fats: Avocado, coconut oil, olive oil, and seeds to support brain function and satiety.
- Non-starchy Vegetables: Broccoli, spinach, zucchini, cauliflower, and leafy greens to reduce inflammation.
- Whole Grains: Small portions of gluten-free grains like quinoa, buckwheat, and brown rice to avoid Candida triggers from refined carbs.
Foods to Avoid:
- Refined Sugars: Chocolate, pastries, sweetened drinks, and sauces.
- Processed Foods: Avoid packaged and processed foods high in additives and sugars.
- Yeast-containing Foods: Bread, pastries, beer, and other fermented items.
Additional Recommendations:
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, aiming for at least 8 glasses.
This plan was designed to support Anne’s long-term health while addressing the root causes of recurrent thrush.
After following this tailored diet plan, Anne noticed a remarkable improvement in her symptoms. Within just a few weeks, she reported feeling much more energetic and less fatigued. Her sugar cravings significantly reduced, which helped her regain control over her eating habits. Most importantly, the recurring thrush infections, which had been a constant struggle, diminished as her body responded positively to the dietary changes and supplements.
Anne had also recently taken antibiotics to treat a throat infection. While these antibiotics were essential for managing her tonsillitis, they disrupted her gut health. Antibiotics target not only harmful bacteria but also beneficial flora, leading to a significant reduction in the diversity of the gut microbiome. In Anne’s case, this disruption likely created an imbalance in her gut flora, providing an opportunity for Candida and thrush to thrive.
To effectively address this issue, we focused on replenishing her gut health by introducing Symprove, a high-quality probiotic supplement. Symprove contains live bacteria, particularly strains such as Lactobacillus, which are vital for restoring the balance of healthy bacteria in the gut. These beneficial microorganisms help outcompete harmful pathogens like Candida, inhibiting their growth and reducing the likelihood of infections.
Incorporating Symprove into Anne’s treatment plan not only aimed to restore her gut flora but also to support her immune system, which had been compromised. By enhancing her gut health, we hoped to create a more resilient environment in her body that could better fend off infections, including recurrent thrush. Over time, this approach would help improve her overall well-being, reduce her symptoms, and contribute to a sustainable balance in her microbiome.
Low Immune System
Anne’s immune system was notably compromised, which likely contributed to her susceptibility to recurrent thrush infections. A weakened immune system can lead to an increased risk of infections, as the body struggles to fight off pathogens effectively. Several factors can contribute to a low immune response, including chronic stress due to running after a toddle, lack of sleep, poor nutrition, and recent illnesses—such as Anne’s bouts of tonsillitis.
To combat this issue, we incorporated specific supplements known for their immune-boosting properties, focusing on Zinc and Vitamin D.
- Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in various immune functions. Anne was also encouraged to consume zinc-rich foods, such as pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, lentils, and nuts, in addition to taking a zinc supplement.
- Vitamin D is another critical nutrient for immune health. It helps modulate the immune system and has been shown to enhance the pathogen-fighting effects of monocytes and macrophages—white blood cells that are vital for immune defense. Vitamin D deficiency is common, particularly in individuals with limited sun exposure or those who live in regions with long winters such as theUK. We ensured that Anne received adequate levels of Vitamin D through supplementation and encouraged her to spend time outdoors when possible to boost her levels naturally.
Comprehensive Immune Support
To further support her immune function, we also focused on lifestyle factors, including:
- Sleep: We discussed the importance of establishing a regular sleep routine to ensure Anne received adequate rest, which is vital for recovery and immune health.
- Stress Management: . We explored stress management techniques, such as Yoga, meditation, and light exercise, to help Anne cope with the demands of motherhood while supporting her immune health. Anne started to implement 10 minutes of yoga every day.
Sexual reinfection may contribute to recurring Thrush
Another contributing factor to Anne’s recurrent thrush was the possibility of reinfection through sexual contact. We discussed the importance of treating both partners, as men can also carry the Candida fungus leading to a cycle of reinfection.
I explained to Anne that it was essential to address both her and her partner to fully resolve the issue and prevent future recurrences. As part of her treatment, we also implemented a low-sugar diet and introduced antifungal supplements to combat Candida overgrowth.
Her husband also scheduled a consultation and received appropriate treatment. Interestingly, he experienced positive side effects, including increased energy, improved concentration, a better mood, and even weight loss! This holistic approach helped break the cycle of reinfection and contributed to their overall well-being.
Antifungals can develop resistance – rotating them is key
We also discussed the use of antifungal supplements and the importance of rotating them to prevent resistance.
This strategy helps ensure that the Candida fungus does not adapt to one particular treatment, making it less effective over time. Anne committed to trying grapefruit seed extract and caprylic acid for four weeks. We talked about how rotating these supplements could enhance their effectiveness and contribute to breaking the cycle of her recurring thrush.
Unfortunately Anne experienced an adverse reaction to Grapefruit seed extract leading to diarrhoea.
We decided to adjust her antifungals and switched to caprylic acid. Caprylic acid is a medium-chain fatty acid derived from coconut oil that has potent antifungal properties. It is known for its ability to target and disrupt Candida cell membranes, making it an effective option for managing yeast overgrowth.
Caprylic acid turned out to be a much better match for Anne’s needs. Its antifungal properties effectively targeted the Candida overgrowth without the adverse gastrointestinal effects she experienced with grapefruit seed extract. This change in her treatment plan not only alleviated her symptoms but also allowed her to continue her journey toward better health without unnecessary discomfort.
It’s crucial to emphasize the importance of working with a qualified practitioner when taking supplements. Each individual’s body reacts differently to various treatments, and a healthcare professional can help tailor a regimen that best suits one’s specific needs and circumstances.
Biofilm Disruptors in Candida Management
In some cases of recurrent thrush, particularly when standard antifungal treatments have limited success, the issue may involve biofilms. Biofilms are protective layers that certain microorganisms, including Candida, can form around themselves. These layers act like a shield, allowing Candida to resist antifungal treatments and evade the immune system. This makes it more difficult to fully eradicate the infection, which can lead to recurring symptoms, as was the case with Anne.
Why Anne Needed a Biofilm Disruptor
For Anne, who had been suffering from recurrent thrush despite following antifungal treatments and a low-sugar diet, adding a biofilm disruptor was an essential next step. Candida can be particularly resilient when it forms biofilms, so even though she had made significant progress in managing her symptoms, the infections continued to return. By incorporating biofilm disruptors, we aimed to break down the protective layers, allowing her antifungal treatments to work more effectively. We used NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine): NAC is an amino acid that has been shown to break down biofilms and improve the effectiveness of antifungal medications. It can also help support liver detoxification, which is important when dealing with chronic infections.
Supplements:
- Probiotics Symprove Take daily to restore healthy gut flora.
- Antifungals: Rotate between Caprylic acid and Grapefruit seed extract, for 4 weeks
- Zinc and Vitamin D: To boost the immune system and support overall health.
- Biofilm disruprtors: NAC
Conclusion
The single biggest change came from reducing her sugar intake and embracing whole foods, which played a crucial role in managing Candida overgrowth.
Equally important was ensuring her husband received the appropriate treatment, helping to break the cycle of reinfection. Alongside this, we incorporated Symprove probiotics and antifungal supplements like caprylic acid, NAC to restore her gut health and strengthen her immune system.
Together, these changes led to remarkable improvements in Anne’s symptoms and overall well-being. Her experience highlights the importance of a holistic approach, where mindful eating and addressing both partners’ health needs can lead to lasting positive outcomes.
If you are struggling with recurrent thrush and need specialist advise please book a consultation a consultation
We can help you with dietary interventions
Candida tests
Small intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth
Supplements
Gut Microbiome testing
References
- Dali-Youcef, N., & Vasilieva, E. (2020). Dietary Approaches to Candida Overgrowth. Nutrition Reviews, 78(9), 703-713.
- Vaginal Candidiasis: A Review (2021). International Journal of Women’s Health, 13, 815-821.
- Nicolosi, A. et al. (2022). The Role of Sexual Partners in the Recurrence of Vaginal Candidiasis. Clinical Microbiology Reviews, 35(1), e00224-21.
- Pérez-González, A., & Gómez-García, A. (2019). Probiotics in the Management of Vaginal Candidiasis: A Systematic Review. Microorganisms, 7(8), 265.
- Singh, A. et al. (2020). Efficacy of Caprylic Acid in the Treatment of Candida Infections: A Review. Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, 75(4), 852-858.
- Simpson, R. (2021). The Importance of Diet in Managing Candida Overgrowth. Nutrition and Health, 27(2), 113-120.
Author – Victoria Tyler BSc Hons MBANT
Victoria Tyler owns and runs two busy clinics : Nutrition and Vitality and the IBS and Gut Disorder Clinic.
Nutrition and Vitality, along with the IBS and Gut Disorder Clinic, were founded with the goal of helping patients alleviate IBS symptoms by uncovering and addressing the root causes of their digestive issues.
As a Registered Nutritional Therapist, Victoria holds a BSc (Hons) in Nutritional Therapy and has trained with the Institute of Functional Medicine. She is also accredited by BANT and CNHC.
Before transitioning into health, Victoria earned a degree in Economics and an MBA, working with corporations including Canon and Vodafone. However, her own health challenges led her to pursue a career in Nutritional Therapy.
With a passion for learning, Victoria is committed to staying at the forefront of Functional Medicine. She helps patients manage IBS and other digestive disorders, including SIBO, Candida, and IBD, by identifying and addressing their root causes.
Victoria strongly believes that every symptom has an underlying cause, and there is always a solution to every health condition. To learn more, or to see patient reviews, visit Victoria’s profile on Google.
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