For nutrient supplementation, a general multiple is used as a base, with some additional antioxidants to help handle certain toxic by-products, avoid immune suppression, and improve immune function. Organic germanium may be used to aid in this immune support and to improve the gut mucosa. Vitamin A, beta-carotene, and vitamin C are useful in the regulation of the yeast and support of the immune function. Extra magnesium is also a part of the program. Less zinc is suggested than in other programs, at least initially, as it possibly stimulates the Candida growth. Extra B vitamins, including biotin, provide support by replacing some of those lost because of the diminished colon bacteria that produce them. Coenzyme Q10 has been shown to have positive effects in yeast treatment as well.

Some of the nutrient oils may be used in the treatment of the yeast problem. In addition to garlic oil and the caprylic acid formulas, essential fatty acids (EFA), fish oil (EPA), and evening primrose oil (EPO) may be helpful, along with vitamin E. A product I have used that incorporates all of these oils is Samolinic, made and distributed by the Key Company. I might suggest a product such as this or separate portions of some of these oils if there seem to be many inflammatory or allergic symptoms.

The type of herbal treatment suggested for the yeast condition depends mostly on the other, coexisting problems. If there are premenstrual symptoms, diuretic herbs or female tonifying herbs may help (see the Premenstrual Syndrome program later in this chapter). With intestinal symptoms or upset, soothing digestive herbs may be helpful. Peppermint or chamomile teas are beneficial; capsules containing slippery elm bark and comfrey root powder can help heal the intestinal lining. Goldenseal root powder in short courses (one or two weeks) strengthens the mucous membranes, but it also stimulates liver detoxification, which can cause an increase in symptoms. Pau d’arco is a tonic herb that is often used in yeast treatment. Thyme oil has also been claimed to reduce yeast growth, but I have no experience with that.

Evaluating and treating the yeast syndrome is a real challenge for both doctors and patients. It takes patience and can often require a very long therapy as the body uses its very sensitive biofeedback process to let us know what is working. Often, Nystatin or other antifungal products must be taken for years, but usually will produce, within a few months, a marked change in the symptoms and a reduction in colon yeast colonization and blood antibodies to the yeast. Many people experience a profound and positive change in their health with proper diagnosis and treatment of this condition. However, we must also be careful not to overtreat and turn this medical concern into nothing more than the latest "fad" of the 1980s, as the medical profession would like. Yeast awareness is here to stay, and doctors and patients must be even more careful in their use of antibiotics, birth control pills, and the immunesuppressive corticosteroids.