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Irritable bowel syndrome or IBS is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain, cramping and episodes of diarrhea and constipation (sometimes the irregular bowel movements alternate between the two). Although the exact cause of IBS is unknown, several factors seem to influence the development of the conditions. But can Candida Albicans cause IBS?

Candida albicans is a yeast or fungus that normally is present inside the human body. It can generally co-exist with no health risks, and in fact it has a part to play in a healthy functioning digestive system ' It is only when there is overgrowth that problems occur. Candida Albicans is generally kept in check by the natural flora of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, and the body's immune system, and the numbers are kept at an acceptable level.

Candida albicans is helpful in a number of processes that occur in the body and has relative functions in immune responses.

However, just like any other microorganism, overgrowth of Candida albicans can be detrimental. The flora that manages its number may experience certain changes that allow excess fungal growth, which will allow it to increase in number and proliferate in the intestinal tract and colon. It is believed that this action can then cause the symptoms of IBS.

The proliferation of yeast infection and bacteria in the digestive system can result in an increase in toxins being released leading to abdominal cramping, pain and episodes of diarrhea. It also can cause skin rashes and allergies, which is not good news for irritable bowel syndrome patients who already have hypersensitive intestines. Hypermotility can result and aggravate the symptoms of abdominal distension, diarrhea and flatulence.

The true mechanism of how the toxins from Candida albicans cause IBS is not fully understood, and indeed there are many in the medical profession that do not believe the theory that a candida infection could trigger IBS. However, there are many personal stories of those that adopt an anti candida diet finding their IBS symptoms alleviated.

Candida overgrowth can be slowed and even reversed by consuming the right diet, which restricts the intake of sugars, processed foods, foods that have been fermented or contain fungus or mould, and those made with cows milk. There are many similarities to the anti-candida diet and a diet that is helpful for someone with IBS, so they can be combined.

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There are also other approaches that can be taken to improve the immune response and help suppress candida including bolstering the levels of friendly bacteria in the gut by taking probiotic supplements or foods, eating foods that have natural anti-fungal properties like garlic and taking herbs that have been shown to help improve the gut flora.

So, if the medical community where asked can candida albicans cause IBS, they would probably consider it unlikely. However, they seem to be missing the evidence that is presented by people who have adopted a program to eliminate candida and seen improvements in their IBS symptoms.