Candida albicans is a fungus and similar to the yeast people use to make bread. However, this type of yeast can cause infection when it is able to grow out of control in the human body.
There are over 40 different species of Candida Yeast (often misspelled Candita), however, only a handful are harmful to us. This page outlines the types that interact with humans and provides a brief description of each.
Candida albicans
This species is the most common species of yeast in our bodies. It lives in our digestive tract and on our skin. Normally it lives in our bodies in a commensal relationship with us meaning we both benefit from each other. However, C. ablicans overgrowth can occur which results in infection most commonly in the genital area and the mouth.
Candida dubliniensis
This species also is found everywhere in our surroundings and is very similar to C. albicans, however, it usually only causes yeast infections in those with AIDS and others who have compromised immune systems. Infections in the mouth area usually result.
Candida glabrata
This once thought to be harmless species is now causing yeast infections in those with compromised immune systems such as those with AIDS. It usually infects the urogenital tract and the blood stream. The mortality rate is high with this species.
Candida krusei
This species is used in the chocolate making process and is usually harmless to humans. However, in those with compromised immune systems and those with types of blood cancer and can cause dangerous yeast infections.
Candida lusitaniae
This species was first identified to cause a yeast infection in 1979 but very few cases were reported until recently with wide use of procedures such as chemotherapy and bone marrow transplants which leaves humans open to infection by this species.
Candida milleri
This is a harmless species used along with bacteria to make sourdough bread.
Candida parapsilosis
This is another species that is common to our bodies and it is the most common species found on our hands. However, this yeast can infect open wounds and surgical patients.
See Also
Diets that can strengthen the immune system and eliminate yeast overgrowth from the body.
Source: Wikipedia.org
do we need a blood test to determine which
type of candida has infected us?
Hi Lisa, Not usually unless it’s a very severe case. Most of the time it’s Candida albicans unless you have an immune disorder.
If you are or have been on medications that weaken the immune system are you at greater risk?
Hi Karl, Yes, you are and you should take preventative measure by making sure your on a diet that doesn’t promote yeast growth in and on your body.
Hello, is it possible/normal to have skin outbreaks/rashes based on a particular food item that may trigger the yeast infection, such as sugar or alcohol
@LaShaune, If the Rash came on suddenly then it was probably an allergic reaction to something and not Candida.
Can candida result in a scaly scalp?
Hi Tonya, A fungal skin infection can be flakey, but is also quite itchy. Is it localized or all over?
I believe that candida sufferers must not eat yeast, dairy and some other food containing sugar, dairy and some others. Is it true? Does the yeast in the different foods “feed” the candida? ie Does mushrooms, bread, coffee, alcohol (mild dosages) and others enhance the growth of candida? Doesn’t the natural stomach acids kill the threat and remove the risk of futher infestation? I also beleive that antibiotics can enhance the growth of candida. Does that go for intravenous antibiotics as well?