One of the world's most versatile and effective natural remedies 
may already be lurking in your kitchen. Once considered to be 
mere folklore, the scientific community has proven the numerous 
beneficial aspects of garlic. From lowering cholesterol to 
preventing cancer and boosting the immune system, this wonder 
food continues to show its promise in the field of health and 
wellness because of the over 100 biologically useful chemicals it 
contains. It supports immune system vitality by encouraging white 
blood cells to fight infections and promoting other immune cells 
to combat bacterial and viral infections and scavenge for cancer 
cells. Garlic is also a powerful antimicrobial, as it eliminates 
or slows the growth of harmful microbes such as yeast or candida. 

Using garlic is a highly effective, not to mention inexpensive, 
way to fight even the most persistent cases of candida albicans. 
Its ability to reduce the amount of candida in the body makes it 
a natural choice for the treatment of thrush and vaginal yeast 
infections. Candida, is a fungus that causes thrush and vaginal 
yeast infections, is a naturally occurring substance that is 
found in the mouth and other mucus membranes. This yeast, when 
maintained in a balanced state along with other necessary 
bacteria, is harmless. But uncontrolled growth may lead to an 
imbalanced state and infections that may invade neighboring 
tissues.  Male candida infection can also occur however it is 
much more common in women.

Thrush occurs when there is an overgrowth of Candida; this 
situation often occurs when the immune system is weakened, if 
there is poor dental hygiene or during pregnancy. Additionally 
the use or overuse of antibiotics may lead to an overabundance of 
candida, causing thrush.

There are several ways that thrush is commonly spread. Newborns 
may become infected with it if his or her mother experienced a 
yeast infection during birth, with symptoms becoming apparent 
after 7-10 days. Because the immune system of a newborn is not 
yet fully developed and a healthy balance of bacteria and fungus 
has not been achieved in the mouth, thrush can become an ongoing 
problem. Often those infected will experience yeast symptoms such 
as white patches in the mouth that may bleed if aggravated; 
however, some cases of thrush present no symptoms. A sore mouth 
may also be prevalent, with infected babies showing reluctance to 
eat. Babies may develop diaper rash as the yeast is passed 
through the infant's stool. Mothers who breast feed may also 
experience unusually red and sore nipples from the infection.

An abundance of candida may also cause vaginitis, commonly known 
as a yeast infection. Ordinary symptoms are vaginal itching, a 
white discharge, sensitive skin at the vaginal opening and pain 
during urination or intercourse. This condition is especially 
common in women who are pregnant or taking antibiotics. Women 
using contraceptives with a high estrogen level are also more 
susceptible to yeast infections. Because the same fungus that 
causes vaginal yeast infections is responsible for thrush, it may 
also be spread through oral sex.

Although there are many medications available for the treatment 
of both thrush and vaginal yeast infections, there are numerous 
safe and natural alternatives to help return the candida levels 
in the body to healthy levels. An easy way to treat candida 
overgrowth is to simply add garlic to your diet. For those who do 
not care for the odor or taste of garlic, capsules are available, 
although fresh garlic provides the greatest benefit. For severe 
cases of candida overgrowth, eating up to six cloves of raw 
garlic per day is advisable.

It may be a bit more difficult to introduce garlic into the diet 
of an infant or young child. If your baby has a severe case of 
thrush it is permissible to dissolve a scant amount of garlic 
powder in water and use a washcloth to gently swab the inside of 
his or her mouth. Your baby may not be appreciative of the taste, 
but it is less painful than the sores that can develop if the 
candida overgrowth is allowed to continue unchecked.

To prevent the occurrence of a vaginal yeast infection, it is a 
good idea to wear loose fitting clothing and do not wear wet 
clothing such as a swimsuit for extended periods of time. Good 
oral hygiene, including daily brushing and flossing as well as 
using an antiseptic mouthwash, is a must. If thrush has 
developed, discard and replace any and all infected toothbrushes. 
In order to restrict the spread of infection, frequently wash 
hands. It is also important to rinse the mouth out with water 
after taking a liquid antibiotic to preserve the balance of 
bacteria in the mouth. It is important to take these common sense 
measures to prevent the contraction and spread of thrush and to 
maintain an appropriate balance of candida. Additionally, 
maintaining a healthy diet and limiting the use of antibiotics 
will encourage a balanced level of candida in the body and 
control the occurrence and severity of these fungal infections. 

Dr. Jonathan N. Group, B.S., R.D., D.C. is a Doctor of 
Chiropractic, Registered Dietitian and Independent Research 
Scientist. He has over 15 years of educational and research 
experience in health care focusing in clinical nutrition, 
alternative medicine, chiropractic, fitness, health and 
wellness.  Dr. Group is currently the Chief Executive Officer of 
Fungus Research, L.L.C. and heads the research and development 
team dedicated to producing advanced, new anti-fungal and 
anti-microbial products. http://www.nail-fungus-toenail.com