How much probiotic for yeast infection and which one is good?

By Probiotics Expert: Dr. Raga

Yeast InfectionsA type of fungal infection that

commonly occurs in womenCaused by the fungi called

Candida AlbicansThis type of infection is also

known as Candidiasis which usually affects wet and damp parts of the body such as the mouth and vagina.

This condition arises from the overgrowth of Candida

Cause of yeast infectionsThe fungus called Candida Albicans grow at the mouth,

stomach, and vagina. When these are in normal amount, usually, there are no problems caused by it. However, when an overgrowth of Candida occurs, Candidiasis or yeast infection develops.

In most cases, the overgrowth of Candida happens to those who are pregnant, obese or overweight, or have compromised immune system.

Also, there are certain drugs that affect its growth, such as antibiotics, immunosuppressants, and anti-cancer agents. These are responsible for decreasing the amount of the normal flora or beneficial bacteria in the intestines.

Symptoms of yeast infections1. Vaginal yeast infectionvaginal itching or burning, redness, white cottage-cheese-

like vaginal discharge, and may cause painful intercourse, beer-like or bread-like odor.

2. Oral yeast infection (Thrush)Characteristic white patches, cracking at the outer edges

of the lips (cheilosis), dry mouth, feeling of food stuck in the throat, strange or unpleasant taste in mouth, and bad breath (halitosis)

3. Digestive tract yeast infection (Systemic)Diarrhea, constipation, rectal itching, irritable bowel

syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), flatulence, food sensitivities

What are probiotics?Probiotics are mostly food products and

dietary supplements which are formulated with live and active microorganisms (bacteria, yeasts) that are known to be beneficial to human health when consumed in adequate amounts.

Probiotics replenish the digestive tract’s number of friendly bacteria in order to restore the balance of the intestinal flora. Also, the replenishment of friendly bacteria to the intestines aids in strengthening the immune system. As a result, the immune system is enhanced in fighting off pathogens or disease-causing microorganisms.

Useful probiotic strains for yeast infection1. Bacillus subtilis This probiotic is spore based and completely dormant

until it touches water. The spores will survive hundreds or perhaps millions of years while it is still in it's dormant state.

Clinical studies have shown that it has a high level of effectiveness, and can survive the harsh environments of the gastrointestinal tract.

Bacillus subtilis is not just resistant in it's dormant state against time, but has shown to be very resilient and can survive the gastrointestinal tract.

In Korea and China, 38 studies were published in adults and 100 studies in infants and children. 23 of the studies were analysed and show that B. Subtilis helps with digestive problems such as chronic diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome. It helps get your gut workiner properly.

Useful probiotic strains for yeast infection2. Lactobacillus AcidophulusThese probiotic strains are able to convert or

ferment sugars into lactic acid. This production of lactic acid causes the digestive flora to become acidic in nature. As a result, it creates an environment which is not favorable to the disease-causing bacteria.

The acidic environment kills the disease-causing bacteria and inhibits their colonization as well.

With more beneficial bacteria in the intestine, the balance in the intestinal flora will be restored and the immune system will be improved. Therefore, this helps in treating yeast infections.

Useful probiotic strains for yeast infection3. BifidobacteriumJust like Acidophilus, Bifidobacterium is also

a lactic acid-producing probiotic. This means that it also helps in promoting an environment which is not suitable for the growth of pathogenic microorganisms.

Aside from that, this strain also aids in various digestive functions such as improving digestion and absorption. Together with that, it can also maintain digestive health by restoring sufficient amount of beneficial bacteria that is important for boosting the immune system’s response against diseases.

Probiotic Treatment Options for Yeast InfectionProbiotics for treatment of yeast infection can be

administered in two ways. First is oral consumption. There are various food

sources and supplements which contain the very useful strains in relieving the symptoms brought by yeast infection. Food sources of probiotics include yogurt, kefir, and kombucha. Meanwhile, there are many probiotic supplements that are out in the market nowadays.

On the other hand, probiotics have also been suggested to be administered as a vaginal suppository or cream.

Probiotic Dose for yeast infectionMost of the probiotics have their dosages

(according to number of live microorganisms) printed on its packaging that indicates how many is consumed per day.

According to experts, a daily dose of up to 10 billion live Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium can be taken for restoring normal bowel function as well as controlling yeast infection.

The treatment of yeast infection may take a long time especially with low dose of probiotics. So, it is best if a consultation to a physician will be made prior to start of consuming probiotics.

My Favorite ProbioticProbacto is the best probiotic that I have

ever run into. They use multiple strains and they are spore forming so they can last while not refrigerated. They do not use cheap bacteria, but expensive ones such as B. Subtilis.

Probacto also contains prebiotics to help stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in your gut.

Probacto contains digestive enzymes to assist in your digestion.

Probacto is enteric coated and made to be slow release so it will release in your gut gradually.

ConclusionYeast infection is one of the most common

health problems that many women have these days. In treating such condition, it is important to be knowledgeable of the options available. It is a huge help that probiotics are very beneficial in treating yeast infections. Aside from its health uses, it has been known to have little to no side effects. Furthermore, people should be aware of the recommended dosage of probiotics use for yeast infection to ensure effective treatment.