Lupus and Candida Overgrowth

For those living with lupus, the complexities of managing symptoms can be overwhelming. On top of fatigue, joint pain, and inflammation, some individuals also struggle with Candida overgrowth, a fungal imbalance that can cause discomfort and further stress the immune system. In this post, we’ll explore the connection between lupus and Candida overgrowth, common symptoms, and practical ways to address and prevent it.

According to a study done in 2022, medications commonly used to treat Lupus patients such as corticosteroids, correlated with an increased risk of fungal infections. Corticosteroids are commonly used to manage Lupus symptoms by suppressing the immune system and helping reduce inflammation and symptoms like swelling, redness, and pain. With the new information linking corticosteroids to an increased risk of fungal infections it’s important to educate yourself and take the necessary steps to prevent fungal infections.

As always, talk with your doctor, this post is not medical advice we are simply looking over the basics of Lupus and candida overgrowth. Let’s go ahead and jump into what Candida overgrowth is.

Candida is a type of yeast that naturally lives in the body—primarily in the mouth, gut, and on the skin. In healthy individuals, good bacteria and the immune system keep Candida levels in check. However, when the body’s balance is disrupted, Candida can multiply and cause infections, known as Candidiasis. For people with autoimmune diseases like lupus, this overgrowth can be more common and harder to manage.

The Link Between Lupus and Candida Overgrowth

• Weakened Immune System: Lupus involves a dysregulated immune system, where the body attacks its own tissues. Immunosuppressant medications (like steroids, biologics, or chemotherapy drugs) often prescribed to manage lupus can weaken the immune system further, reducing the body’s ability to fight off Candida infections.
• Antibiotic Use: Lupus patients are prone to infections, leading to frequent antibiotic use. While antibiotics kill harmful bacteria, they also wipe out beneficial bacteria in the gut that keep Candida growth under control.
• Chronic Inflammation: Ongoing inflammation in the gut lining caused by lupus or leaky gut syndrome can create an environment where Candida can thrive.
• Diet and Sugar Cravings:Candida feeds on sugar and refined carbs, which can exacerbate yeast overgrowth. Many lupus patients experience cravings for these foods due to fatigue or energy dips, inadvertently feeding the imbalance.

Signs of Candida Overgrowth:

Candida overgrowth can affect multiple areas of the body, leading to a variety of symptoms:
• Digestive Issues: Bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, or nausea.
• Oral Thrush: White patches on the tongue or inside the cheeks, soreness, or difficulty swallowing.
• Vaginal Infections: Itching, burning, unusual discharge, or recurring yeast infections.
• Skin and Nail Issues: Red, itchy rashes in skin folds, athlete’s foot, or nail fungus.
• Fatigue and Brain Fog: Chronic tiredness, poor focus, or memory issues.
• Sugar Cravings: Intense cravings for sweets and refined carbohydrates.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms alongside your lupus, Candida overgrowth may be playing a role.

Manage Candida Overgrowth

Managing Candida overgrowth involves a multi-step approach to restore balance to your body and support your immune system. Here are some key strategies:

Speak with Your Doctor
• Your doctor can diagnose Candida overgrowth through physical exams, medical history, or lab tests.
• Antifungal medications like fluconazole or nystatin may be prescribed for systemic or localized infections.
• Discuss any medications you’re currently taking, as some may contribute to Candida growth.

Adopt an Anti-Candida Diet: Diet is one of the most powerful tools for addressing Candida overgrowth. An anti-Candida diet focuses on starving the yeast and restoring gut balance.

What to Eat:
• Non-starchy vegetables: Broccoli, spinach, zucchini, cauliflower.
• Lean proteins: Poultry, fish, eggs, and legumes.
• Healthy fats: Avocado, olive oil, coconut oil, and nuts (in moderation).
• Low-sugar fruits: Green apples, berries, and lemons (small portions).
• Fermented foods: Sauerkraut, kimchi, and unsweetened yogurt can replenish good bacteria.

What to Avoid:
• Sugar (including natural sources like honey or maple syrup).
• Refined carbs: White bread, pasta, pastries.
• Alcohol: It can feed Candida and weaken the immune system.
• Dairy (in excess): Some forms may exacerbate yeast growth.

Replenish Gut Health with Probiotics

A high-quality probiotic supplement can help restore the balance of good bacteria in your gut and reduce Candida levels. Look for probiotics with strains like:
• Lactobacillus acidophilus
• Bifidobacterium bifidum
• Saccharomyces boulardii (a beneficial yeast that combats Candida).

Also include probiotic-rich foods like kefir, unsweetened yogurt, and kombucha into your diet.

Support Your Immune System: Managing lupus symptoms and supporting your immune system is key to preventing Candida overgrowth.

• Prioritize rest and sleep to reduce inflammation and give your body time to recover.
• Manage stress through mindfulness, meditation, and gentle exercise. Stress weakens immunity and can fuel Candida growth.
• Stay hydrated
• Address Skin and Oral Yeast Infections

For localized Candida infections, such as oral thrush or skin rashes:
• Use antifungal creams or oral rinses prescribed by your doctor.
• Keep affected skin areas clean and dry, especially in moist folds like the underarms, groin, or under breasts.
• Rinse your mouth with diluted salt water or baking soda to reduce oral yeast growth.

Preventing Future Overgrowth

Once Candida is under control, prevention is key:
• Follow a balanced diet with minimal processed sugars and refined carbs.
• Continue taking probiotics to support a healthy gut microbiome.
• Minimize unnecessary antibiotic use and discuss alternatives with your doctor.
• Stay in tune with your body—address symptoms early to prevent further imbalance.

Candida overgrowth can feel like yet another challenge when managing lupus, but with the right tools and guidance, you can regain balance and reduce discomfort. By working closely with your healthcare team, supporting your gut health, and making small lifestyle changes, you can address Candida while protecting your overall well-being.

Have you experienced Candida overgrowth alongside lupus? Share your journey or tips in the comments below to help others navigating a similar path!