- Why did you take on this candida cleanse?
I chose a candida cleanse specifically because of some severe sensitivity to scents and perfumes, which is a telltale sign of an issue. It has affected my life greatly recently. I am someone who happens to have a not so strong core microbiome due to illnesses as a child that resulted in me being on antibiotics quite often. This makes it very easy for candida to overpopulate. I have also recently had some issues with digestion, so will also use this cleanse as an elimination diet and will slowly add foods back into my diet to see how they affect me.
- What was your greatest challenge over the 30 days?
The most challenging part of this cleanse for me is/was the strict diet and giving up my favorite foods. There are many very healthy foods that are an issue for anyone that is suffering from overgrowth. Foods like brightly coloured vegetables, fruits and grains that are good for a body with a healthy microbiome and nourish you, unfortunately also feed candida.
- How do you feel the cleanse has benefited you most?
It has helped me to realize that I tend to snack on some not so great items when I am relaxing or feel bored. I really didn’t think this was that big an issue for me. It is habitual for me it seems. Although I think I am resting, my hands want to be busy! So potato chips, more than I care to admit, have been keeping my hands from being idle. Instead, I have taken to doing crosswords and puzzles with pen and paper instead. I forgot that I really enjoyed doing this as a younger lady. I’ve started walking daily again, something that I had stopped doing more recently which is both relaxing and keeping me busy and away from snacking. That’s a big win for my body and mind!
- What if anything would you change about the cleanse?
I wouldn’t change anything about it. You can’t really. It is comprised of a list of foods that are good for you on a candida cleanse, foods that are harmful in the way that they feed candida, and foods that can be in the middle. This cleanse will only be effective if you follow it as best as possible. The more you eat from the no or maybe list, the more difficult it will be for you to succeed.
- Do you have any advice for someone taking on a similar challenge?
Be prepared. Learn about candida overgrowth and understand that the only way to control it, or rid yourself of it, is to stay the course. This is not easy. Have a clear outline of what you will add to your grocery list and recipes that you will eat.
Make sure to communicate your intentions to your family and close circle of people. It is important that they know you will need support. There is always the potential to create a reason to “cheat”. The more you cheat, the longer it will take to achieve your health goal, hence the need for your support people.
Don’t give up! You can do this, and your reward is only a few weeks away!
Tiffany Sale is a certified Holistic Nutritionist and has worked in the natural health field for nearly two decades. We are fortunate to have her as part of the team at Orchard Health Foods.
We hope that you find this information to be helpful. As always, we recommend you consult your health practitioner for advice related to your specific case and conditions.