What are the best natural remedies for treating oral thrush in infants. How can parents identify oral thrush symptoms in babies. Why are natural treatments preferable to conventional methods for some parents. How do home remedies effectively combat oral thrush in infants. What precautions should be taken when using natural treatments for infant oral thrush.

Understanding Oral Thrush in Infants

Oral thrush is a common condition affecting infants, characterized by an overgrowth of Candida Albicans, a type of yeast naturally present in the human body. While this fungus is typically harmless, certain factors can lead to its excessive proliferation, resulting in thrush. These factors may include an immature or compromised immune system, disruption of the natural bacterial balance, or exposure to yeast during birth if the mother has an active infection.

Identifying oral thrush in babies can be challenging, as it’s often confused with milk tongue. However, there are distinct characteristics that set thrush apart:

• White, cottony patches in various parts of the mouth, not just the tongue
• Bleeding when these patches are wiped
• Redness inside the oral cavity
• Increased fussiness or irritability
• Shorter feeding sessions or outright feeding refusal

Is oral thrush as prevalent as commonly believed. Recent findings suggest that thrush may be over-diagnosed in infants. Many symptoms attributed to thrush could be indicative of other feeding issues. Therefore, it’s crucial for parents to seek professional advice if they suspect their baby has thrush, especially if home remedies don’t yield improvement within a few days.

The Science Behind Natural Remedies for Oral Thrush

Natural remedies for oral thrush work in two primary ways: by directly destroying the fungal cells or by inhibiting their growth and replication. The ultimate goal is to restore balance to the Candida population, thereby alleviating symptoms. One advantage of treating oral thrush, as opposed to nipple thrush, is the ability to apply treatments directly to the affected area.

Many herbal extracts have demonstrated efficacy against Candida, with some showing promising results specifically for oral thrush. For instance, turmeric, renowned for its potent antifungal properties, has been the subject of multiple studies showcasing its ability to combat Candida. However, it’s important to note that while these natural remedies show promise, their effectiveness can vary, and some studies have found modest to no effects compared to prescription antifungal medications.

Considerations for Using Herbal Extracts

When considering herbal extracts for treating infant oral thrush, parents should be aware of several key points:

1. Many herbal extracts are alcohol-based, which may cause discomfort if applied to sore or irritated areas in the baby’s mouth.
2. No commercially available herbal extract has been specifically studied for thrush treatment in infants.
3. Herbal extracts differ from essential oils, which have conflicting safety reports for oral use.
4. Herbal teas and tinctures are generally recognized as safe for ingestion, unlike essential oils.

Three Effective Home Remedies for Infant Oral Thrush

While professional medical advice should always be sought for persistent or severe cases, here are three natural remedies that parents can try at home to treat their baby’s oral thrush:

1. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has gained popularity as a natural antifungal agent. Its effectiveness against Candida is attributed to its high content of medium-chain fatty acids, particularly lauric acid. How can parents use coconut oil to treat oral thrush in infants. Apply a small amount of organic, virgin coconut oil to the affected areas in the baby’s mouth using a clean finger or cotton swab. Repeat this process several times a day, ideally after feeding sessions.

2. Probiotics

Probiotics can help restore the natural balance of bacteria in the body, which may help combat the overgrowth of Candida. For infants, probiotic supplements specifically designed for babies can be beneficial. These often come in powder form that can be mixed with breast milk or formula. Additionally, if the mother is breastfeeding, she can consume probiotic-rich foods or supplements, as the beneficial bacteria can be passed to the baby through breast milk.

3. Saltwater Rinse

A gentle saltwater rinse can help create an environment that’s less hospitable for yeast growth. To prepare a safe solution for infants, dissolve a small pinch of salt in a cup of warm water. Using a soft cloth or gauze wrapped around your finger, gently wipe the inside of the baby’s mouth with this solution. This method should be used with caution and only under the guidance of a healthcare provider, as excessive salt intake can be harmful to infants.

The Controversy Surrounding Gentian Violet

Gentian violet has long been touted as an effective treatment for oral thrush, and indeed, its efficacy is well-documented. However, recent concerns have emerged regarding its safety, particularly for use in infants. Why has gentian violet fallen out of favor for treating infant oral thrush.

• Potential toxicity and carcinogenic effects, especially with oral application
• Risk of significant irritation and ulcers if used for extended periods
• Messy application and staining properties

Given these concerns, many healthcare providers now recommend alternative treatments for infant oral thrush. Parents considering gentian violet should consult with their pediatrician before use and carefully follow any provided instructions to minimize potential risks.

Preventing Oral Thrush in Infants

While treating oral thrush is important, prevention is always preferable. Here are some strategies parents can employ to reduce the risk of their infant developing oral thrush:

Maintain Good Hygiene

Proper hygiene practices can significantly reduce the risk of thrush. This includes:

• Washing hands thoroughly before handling the baby, especially before feeding
• Sterilizing bottles, pacifiers, and breast pump parts regularly
• Changing wet diapers promptly to prevent yeast growth

Boost the Immune System

A strong immune system can help keep Candida growth in check. For infants, this primarily means ensuring they receive proper nutrition through breastfeeding or appropriate formula feeding. For breastfeeding mothers, maintaining a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals can also contribute to the baby’s immune health.

Limit Antibiotic Use

Antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the body, potentially leading to yeast overgrowth. While antibiotics are sometimes necessary, they should be used judiciously and only when prescribed by a healthcare provider. If an infant must take antibiotics, consider supplementing with probiotics to help maintain bacterial balance.

When to Seek Professional Medical Advice

While natural remedies can be effective for mild cases of oral thrush, there are instances when professional medical intervention is necessary. Parents should consult a healthcare provider if:

• Symptoms persist for more than two weeks despite home treatment
• The baby shows signs of dehydration or significant feeding difficulties
• There’s severe pain or discomfort that interferes with the baby’s ability to eat
• The thrush appears to be spreading or worsening
• The baby develops a fever or shows other signs of illness

A healthcare provider can offer a definitive diagnosis and may prescribe antifungal medications if necessary. They can also rule out other conditions that may mimic the symptoms of oral thrush.

The Role of Diet in Managing Infant Oral Thrush

While an infant’s diet is primarily limited to breast milk or formula, dietary considerations can still play a role in managing oral thrush, particularly for breastfeeding mothers. How can a mother’s diet influence her baby’s oral thrush.

Reducing Sugar Intake

Candida thrives on sugar. Breastfeeding mothers may consider reducing their intake of refined sugars and simple carbohydrates. This doesn’t mean eliminating all carbohydrates, but rather focusing on complex carbohydrates and natural sugars found in fruits and vegetables.

Incorporating Antifungal Foods

Certain foods have natural antifungal properties that may help combat Candida overgrowth. These include:

• Garlic
• Coconut oil
• Ginger
• Turmeric
• Cinnamon

Incorporating these foods into the mother’s diet may have a beneficial effect on the baby’s oral thrush. However, it’s important to introduce new foods gradually and monitor for any adverse reactions in the baby.

Probiotic-Rich Foods

In addition to probiotic supplements, consuming probiotic-rich foods can help restore bacterial balance. These foods include:

• Yogurt with live cultures
• Kefir
• Sauerkraut
• Kombucha (in moderation)

Remember that while dietary changes can be beneficial, they should complement, not replace, other treatments for oral thrush. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet, especially while breastfeeding.

Long-Term Management and Recurrence Prevention

After successfully treating an episode of oral thrush, parents may wonder about long-term management and how to prevent recurrence. Here are some strategies to consider:

Maintain Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is crucial in preventing the recurrence of thrush. For infants, this means gently wiping the gums and tongue with a soft, damp cloth after each feeding. As the child grows and begins teething, introduce a soft toothbrush appropriate for their age.

Continue Probiotic Support

Probiotics can play a role in long-term prevention of thrush. Consider continuing probiotic supplements or incorporating probiotic-rich foods into the diet (for older infants and breastfeeding mothers) even after the thrush has cleared.

Address Underlying Factors

If oral thrush recurs frequently, it may be indicative of an underlying issue. This could include:

• Chronic health conditions affecting the immune system
• Persistent Candida colonization in the mother (for breastfed infants)
• Environmental factors promoting yeast growth

Working with a healthcare provider to identify and address these factors can help prevent future recurrences.

Monitor and Adjust

Every child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Pay attention to patterns and triggers that seem to precede thrush outbreaks. This might include certain foods, environmental changes, or stressors. By identifying these patterns, parents can take proactive steps to minimize the risk of recurrence.

Remember, while natural remedies and preventive measures can be effective, persistent or severe cases of oral thrush should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional. With proper care and attention, most cases of infant oral thrush can be successfully managed, allowing both baby and parents to return to a comfortable, thrush-free life.

3 home remedies for treating your baby’s oral thrush

Natural Remedies You Can Use At Home To Treat Your Baby’s Oral Thrush

Many parents are looking for natural ways to treat their baby’s oral thrush. I know this is true for my area – many parents I work with living in The Bay Area will avoid taking antibiotics if they can help it.

Previously, I covered natural home remedies for treating nipple thrush. In this post, I will provide information on oral thrush treatment in babies.

What Is Oral Thrush

Oral thrush is a condition in which Candida Albicans, a yeast/fungus, overgrows in the mouth. Technically thrush can be caused by other strains of the Candida fungus, however, C. Albicans is the most common.

We have Candida all over and in our bodies, including in our mouths. Only when there’s an overgrowth of the Candida population that it becomes an issue. An imbalance in the immune system, an immature immune system, and/or a disruption in the balance of the bacteria populations are the most common causes of the development of thrush. If a baby is born when the parent has an active yeast infection, they may be more likely to develop oral thrush.

Oral Thrush Symptoms in babies may include

• White coating /cottony patches in the mouth
• Bleeding when the patches/coating is wiped off
• Areas of redness inside the oral space
• Fussiness / Irritability
• Shorter Feeds or Feeding Refusal

Will A Natural Remedy For Oral Thrush Work?

One of the biggest challenges with managing oral thrush is identifying it. Many parents (and providers alike!) confuse oral thrush with milk tongue, as both may present with a white coating on the tongue. When babies have oral thrush, they often develop cottony patches on many parts of their mouths, not just the tongue.

If you notice white areas on the wet surface of their lips & cheeks, it’s likely thrush, and the at-home remedies discussed below should help. You should expect to see fewer white patches within five days.

Resolution of symptoms after home treatment will not be the case for the milk tongue- the likely being a build-up of milk on the tongue surface due to poor tongue lift. While milk tongue is not an issue in itself, it can be a sign of feeding challenges & if you’re dealing with “thrush-like symptoms,” feeding challenges may be to blame.

Oral thrush is significantly over-diagnosed & thereby, babies are overtreated. Thrush is not as common as once thought. In fact, it is often the least likely explanation for the symptoms parents report.

For this reason, I highly encourage you to schedule a visit if you suspect your baby has thrush or, at the very least, if you don’t see any improvement after trialing at-home thrush management, especially if you’re having nipple pain.

How Do At-Home Remedies Treat Oral Thrush?

A thrush infection may be treated in two ways: by destroying the fungus cell or stopping it from growing and replicating. In both circumstances, the goal is to bring the Candida population back into balance, resulting in the reversal of symptoms.

One of the benefits of treating oral thrush, as opposed to nipple thrush, is that we can act directly on the fungus cell, killing it. Killing the fungus cell via direct application is the idea behind some of the recommendations you can find online such as oral application of herbal extracts & gentian violet.

Many herbal extracts have shown effectiveness against candida & some have even looked at how well they work against oral thrush. One of note is Tumeric, an herb with potent antifungal properties that has been shown to kill candida in multiple studies*. One major consideration with using turmeric extract, for example, to treat oral thrush is that they are alcohol-based & may cause a burning sensation with the application if there are any areas of redness or sores. Additionally, no herbal extract available on the market has been studied for thrush treatment or use in babies.

Herbal extracts are not the same as herbal essential oils (EOs). Many posts discuss treating oral thrush naturally & include recommendations for essential oils, though there are conflicting opinions about the safety of oral usage of EOs. Herbal extracts, on the other hand, such as teas or tinctures, are well recognized as being safe for ingestion.

* There are, of course, countering studies that show modest to no effects on candida Albicans, especially compared to prescription antifungal medication used to treat oral thrush.

A Note About Gentian Violet

There’s little doubt about its effectiveness in treating oral thrush- it certainly will get the job done. However, concerns have emerged over the years about its potential toxicity & cancerogenic effects, especially with the oral application. Using GV for too long may cause significant irritation & ulcers. It’s messy & it stains- staining may make follow-up assessment a challenge. Due to these factors, Gentian Violet has fallen out of favor, and I don’t recommend its use in my practice.

Grapefruit seed extract (GSE) is a commonly recommended home remedy for oral thrush. The evidence supports that GSE can & does kill CandidaAlbicans, though I could find no studies that looked at the effectiveness against oral thrush infections. One major drawback to using it for oral thrush is that it can burn the mucosal membranes in the wrong concentration. Unfortunately, there is a lack of clear guidance about what concentrations pose little risk & and many parents are buying whatever option is available to them, regardless of the concentration. Because there are lower-risk alternatives, I don’t recommend it to the parents I work with.

Natural Remedies For Getting Rid Of Your Baby’s Thrush?

Swab Your Babys Mouth With Baking Soda Solution

The method:

1.  Mix 1 tsp of Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate) & 1 cup of warm water.

2.  Use a q-tip to apply the baking soda solution to all parts of your baby’s mouth.

3.  Apply 3–4 x a day.

The science: Thrush thrives in acidic environments, so by changing the ph level of your baby’s mouth to be more alkaline, you can help prevent the reproduction & growth of Candida cells.

Apply Coconut Oil To The Inside Of Your Baby’s Mouth

The method: Use a q tip to gently apply coconut oil to your baby’s tongue & the insides portion of their lips & cheeks 4 x a day. If you’re also doing the baby soda swabs, apply the coconut oil afterward.

The science: Coconut oil contains high amounts of fatty acids & direct application of fatty acids to Candida cells has been shown to kill them.

Sterilize Pacis, Bottles, Nipple Shield & Toys Your Baby Chew One Daily

The method: Sterilize your baby’s pacifiers, bottles, or anything they put in their mouth at least once a day by boiling them for at least 10 minutes.

The science: boiling kills off any thrush spores that have been transferred from your baby’s mouth onto the object’s surface.

Offer Yogurt & Fermented Foods With Meals (If Your Baby Is Old Enough)

The method: If your baby is eating solids, you can offer yogurt, kefir, or the juice of fermented foods, such as fermented pickles or sauerkraut, with their meals. Fermented foods have a distinctive sour taste which your baby may find intense. Luckily a little goes a long way to populating your baby’s gut with beneficial probiotics.

Best brands for probiotic-rich yogurt includes Stonyfield & Siggi. If your baby has a dairy sensitivity or allergy, you can try GT Cocoyo Living Coconut Yogurt, which you can find at Whole Foods.

The science: Probiotics help boost the immune system to help the body restore the balance of the yeast populations in/on your baby’s body.

Can I Get Nipple Thrush If My Baby Has Oral Thrush?

Technically thrush is considered spreadable, though it’s not exactly what occurs. Candida cells certainly are passed back and forth between your nipple and your baby’s mouth- this is true for bacteria as well. However, thrush only occurs if the person the yeast is on has an immune system that can’t keep the candida population in check. If your baby has oral thrush and your immune system is disrupted due to stress or illness, there’s a possibility that you may develop thrush. For this reason, standard recommendations have been to treat both parent and baby simultaneously to resolve thrush as quickly as possible if there is reason to think that parent or baby will be more susceptible.

Final Thoughts & Key Takeaway

I’ve found working with the parents I see in my practice, however, that even in diagnostically confirmed cases of thrush (via oral culture), the nipple pain a parent is experiencing is generally due to some other cause. Once we address that, parents feel better without any treatment, natural or otherwise!

If you suspect your baby has thrush & it’s affecting your baby’s ability or willingness to eat, or you’ve not noticed an improvement trying to manage it at home, please schedule a visit. Assessing & managing oral thrush is something we can do virtually, or if you’re local, I am happy to see you in our office, located near Berkeley Ca.

Tags

• Thrush
• Candida
• BreastfeedingPain
• NipplePain
• ChestfeedingPain
• Breastfeeding
• Chestfeeding

Laura Howells (she/her) is an IBCLC and postpartum doula who works with clients in the San Francisco Bay Area. She has been happily supporting growing families during pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and the first years since 2009.

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Thursh in Babies: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Think your baby has thrush? Here’s how to diagnose thrush in babies, treat it naturally, and even prevent it from reoccurring.

While it’s normal for infants to have white-coated tongues after feeding, how do we know for sure if these white bumps aren’t in fact oral thrush in babies? Here, we’ll show you how to spot thrush in babies, how to treat it naturally, and how to prevent it from recurring.

What Is Thrush in Babies?

Thrush, or oral candidiasis, is an accumulation of the fungus candida albicans in the mouth that causes white lesions, or sores, that look more like cottage cheese than the normal milky whiteness associated with babies’ milk tongue from breastmilk or formula.

This fungus is normally present in everyone’s mouth, but thrush in babies occurs more frequently in infants because of their weak immune systems.

Breastfeeding moms are at risk to get thrush too, since the infection can pass to mom’s breast (and oppositely, mom can pass it back to baby) and cause serious discomfort and pain.

Baby Thrush Symptoms

The key to identifying thrush in babies is by simply examining your baby’s mouth, cheeks, and tongue very carefully. And watch your baby’s eating habits closely.

Here’s what to look for:

• White lesions on child’s tongue and cheeks. These can be raised spots, a super thick coating, or overall tissue irritation
• Loss of appetite in baby
• Discomfort in baby while nursing

The lesions in baby’s mouth can cause pain and loss of taste, so it’s understandable that baby may be fussy.

[Image Source]

Thrush symptoms in breastfeeding moms

When thrush is passed to a nursing a mom, you might find that:

• Your nipples are unusually red, cracked, sensitive, or itchy
• You experience pain while nursing
• Your nipples feel sore between feedings

While all breastfeeding moms know nursing can be painful at times, pain from thrush is more intense, deeper than usual, and does not go away when your baby is done feeding. (source) Be sure to try this DIY nipple cream that greatly reduces nipple pain.

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What Causes Thrush in Babies?

The fungus or yeast that causes thrush is naturally occurring and prevalent in most people’s bodies. Thrush happens to many new moms and babies, though one study found it occurred less in homes where there was a furry pet, like a cat or dog. The good news, though: It is a common occurrence (especially in breastfed babies due to the warm moist area yeast likes) and is treatable.

Antibiotics

Our bodies, and our babies’ bodies, have a natural balance of microorganisms that keep us healthy. Bacteria sounds like a bad word, but there’s good bacteria and bad bacteria and antibiotics don’t discriminate. So, when mom or baby has to go on antibiotics, this disrupts the natural flora balance and makes us more susceptible to thrush. Luckily, there are so many wonderful ways to restore our balance, which we will talk about in the prevention section below. (source)

Weakened immune system

If neither you nor baby have been on antibiotics, there are other things that can weaken your immune system, such as illness, a poor diet, being exposed to harsh chemicals or just not getting enough sleep (very common with a newborn!). Check out this post for natural ways to boost your immune system.

Natural Thrush Treatments

If you go to your pediatrician, they will usually prescribe oral nystatin or fluconazole for you and baby. These are antifungal options that have been proven effective. But if you want to try to avoid these if possible, these are some excellent natural options. (Just be sure to get your doctor or pediatrician’s approval before using these natural remedies for thrush.)

1. Probiotics found in yogurt and breastmilk

If your baby is too young for yogurt there are safe probiotics for babies that you can look into. My doula recommended rubbing a serving of acidophilus powder on my nipple while breastfeeding, as this benefits both you and baby and your infected areas. You can make this DIY nipple cream that will give baby probiotics but also reduce your nipple pain dramatically.

2. Reducing sugar intake

If you are a nursing mom, reducing your sugar intake is essential, as a sugary diet can make symptoms worse (another reason why some moms and midwives are not fans of nystatin, which can contain sugar in order to make it palatable for infants, but it’s effectiveness is reduced in the process). (source) Focus on organic protein like eggs, chicken, beef, bison, turkey, wild caught fish and whole cultured dairy products. Add in tons of cooked organic vegetables in the form of soups, stews, or purees. Raw salads topped with homemade salad dressing with raw garlic are also excellent. Include small amounts of gluten-free grains like oats, millet and quinoa and plenty of healthy fats like butter, olive oil, avocado, and seeds. Keep fruit to only 1 serving per day of either green apple or grapefruit to keep sugars low. Check out these nourishing meals for a new mama for inspiration.

3. Grapefruit seed extract

Grapefruit seed extract mixed with distilled water is another way to combat the yeast causing thrush. (source) Grapefruit seed extract is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial compound made from the seeds and pulp of grapefruit. The recommended dosage is 10 drops of GSE (where to buy) mixed with one ounce of water, which is swabbed on mom’s sore nipples and baby’s tender mouth before nursing, just like the recommendation with probiotics.

4. Calendula extract

Pure calendula extract (where to buy) can be used to help eliminate thrush. Calendula extract can be used an alternative to gentian violet (which we’ll cover in the next section). Studies show that this herbal extract can inhibit yeast growth. (source)  Mamas can paint the extract on their nipples, but it’s also possible to paint the extract on your baby’s tongue too.

Tip: Always check with your pediatrician before administering any extracts or herbal preparations to your baby.

5. Take a peek at mama’s diet

In addition to reducing sugar intake, mama can infuse her diet with plenty of anti-fungal and anti-bacterial foods. This includes:

• Organic, whole yogurt. The tarter, the better!
• Garlic (Be sure to check out our pesto recipe)
• Oregano
• Onions
• Raw coconut oil
• Apple cider vinegar 

What About Gentian Violet?

Gentian violet is another popular natural remedy for thrush. In fact, when I was pregnant with Griffin, this was the go-to remedy, but should you use it?

It is an antiseptic dye used to treat a myriad of fungal infections. Despite the popularity of gentian violet, we can’t recommend this as a natural treatment for thrush for a few reasons.

The first concern that makes this remedy unpopular is the possible side-effect of increased swelling or soreness and the fact that it does turn your skin purple. Mamas who used gentian violent are quick to note purple nipples and a baby who looks like they rubbed their face in blackberries for a few days. (source) Purple staining is a nuisance, but that’s not the only issue with gentian violet.

Another (and more serious) problem with gentian violent is the potential carcinogen factor. Health Canada has issued warnings about gentian violent (source), and New Zealand dermatologists warn of potential for necrotic tissue. (source) Yikes!

For these reasons, it’s best to take a pass on gentian violet.

Preventing Baby Thrush

So, now that we know some ways to treat thrush in babies, what can we do to prevent it from happening in the first place? It’s all about supporting a natural flora balance in you and baby.

Some simple ways to do this include:

• Consider adding a good probiotic to your daily supplements. Just Thrive, BioKult and Prescript Assist are some of my favorites. (This is especially important if you or your baby ever have to take antibiotics.)
• Eliminate junk food, sugar and soda from your diet
• Keep your natural sugar intake low (even fruit). No more than 2-3 servings a day.
• Include antibacterial and antifungal foods regularly in your diet such as: garlic, herbs like thyme and oregano, raw coconut oil and butter, black cumin seed oil (where to buy), raw pumpkin seeds, etc.

How About You?

Did you or your baby have thrush? If you have any thrush remedies that worked for you, let us know in the comments below!

Let’s deal with thrush without medicinal methods

In the press, on television, in outdoor advertising, advertising of various drugs against an unpleasant fungal disease – thrush quite often slips through. However, the expectant or nursing mother is afraid to take medications, although it is “in position” and after childbirth that the thrush attacks the female body especially aggressively. Are there other ways to deal with this disease?

Where do mushrooms come from?

Thrush is a fungal disease caused by the fact that candida fungi begin to multiply actively on the mucous membranes of a person. If a person is completely healthy, the presence of these fungi in the body does not cause concern – the immune system keeps them in check. However, during pregnancy, a heavy burden falls on the body, and the immune response can fail. This may be due to both hormonal processes and the fact that the immune system is weakened by the fight against a viral infection.

Symptoms of thrush are known to many: cheesy discharge, sometimes very abundant, which is often accompanied by itching and burning in the perineum. (It happens that fungi also affect other organs, such as the oral mucosa, and then you have to deal with the symptoms of stomatitis).

In addition to diseases and specific hormonal disorders of pregnant and lactating women, which are difficult to influence without the help of a doctor, the reasons for the increased growth of fungal colonies in the body can be ignorance, our bad habits, and sometimes even simple laziness. The first reason on this list is ill-conceived nutrition. Fungi have a “lip is not a fool” – most of all they love flour and sweets. That is, the features of immunity, metabolism and the functioning of the excretory system of a person who eats unhealthy food work for the fungus.

The second reason is lack of personal hygiene. The fungus loves moisture very much, and we often help it with this. How? Very simple! Beautiful synthetic underwear does not remove sweat from the body, does not allow secretions to dry quickly – and in such a “greenhouse” fungi multiply quickly. Disposable “everyday” pads that we wear, embarrassed by secretions and their smell, also interfere with air circulation and increase humidity. Particularly harmful are the air-tight pads that women use during critical days or with lochia after childbirth. After all, most of the pads that are actively advertised now do not “leave the skin dry and clean” at all, but turn the liquid into a gel and help fungi multiply and multiply.

The third reason is the notorious “chemistry”, all kinds of fragrances, detergents and preservatives. For example, the same pads quite often contain harmful substances with which the manufacturer flavored the pad. No less harmful to a weak mucosa can be panties that are poorly rinsed or washed with an inappropriate powder for you.

The fourth reason is the stagnation of blood in the small pelvis. A sedentary lifestyle, restrictions on sexual life and active movements that pregnancy and childbirth impose on a woman – all this leads to congestion in organs and tissues. And where the blood supply worsens, fungi live better there.

Is thrush dangerous?

Unfortunately, yes. Chronic thrush can conquer more and more expanses of your body and harm many organs, complicate breastfeeding, and the baby can become infected with it, passing through the birth canal.

How to be?

What if it’s impossible to put up with thrush, and you can’t “poison” yourself with strong medicines? It is best to spend energy on the prevention and treatment of thrush in the early stages, in order to prevent a severe form when you can’t think of anything else.

Purchase cotton underwear (preferably white), wash it to get rid of the “chemistry” that inevitably resides in the fabric and wear without pads unless critical days require it. If necessary, change the linen more than once a day, wash it in a machine with a boiling mode and a minimum of detergent – it is best to use special eco-powders and gels or children’s washing powder. In the rinse cycle, run the machine twice. At home, if possible, go without underwear in a skirt or bathrobe, for better air circulation.

Use cellulose pads on critical days. There are cheap domestic ones, there are more expensive imported ones. The main thing is to change them as often as possible. Adjust your nutrition. Minimize “empty” carbohydrates, foods that contain a lot of sugar, yeast, or ferment when cooked (beer, wine, muffins, desserts, etc.). Beware of old cheese, raw mushrooms, chocolate, dried fruits, honey, nut pastes, pickles and marinades, potatoes, soy sauce, vinegar. Reduce milk intake – leave only low-fat sour-milk products.

Drink green tea 3-4 times a day – this can help cleanse the body of excess yeast. There should be more vegetables and fruits on your table. Eat fish, gluten-free grains (brown rice, millet, buckwheat), avoid foods containing gluten (wheat, rye, barley, semolina and pasta, oats). Consume dietary supplements that promote the growth of beneficial bacteria.

If the desired balance in the body has already been disturbed, you can, after consulting with your doctor, try to help yourself with long-known home remedies. The most famous of these is douching with apple cider vinegar (2 tablespoons per liter of water, 2-4 times a day). At night, you can also put “garlic candles” (a clove of garlic is peeled from the upper rough shell, so as not to damage the clove itself, and is placed in the vagina). The effect is noticeable after 3 days. It is also useful to make baths for the perineum: with a decoction of oak bark, calendula, yarrow, rosemary (3 tablespoons of a decoction according to a standard recipe for each liter of water, sit in a warm bath for 15-20 minutes). Take inside bifidobacteria and put tampons with them, as well as treatment of concomitant viral infection.

Breastfeeding mothers

A symptom of thrush in a breastfeeding mother can be severe burning pain on the surface of the nipples or deep inside the breast. Unlike the pain of nipple cracks and mastitis, which gradually subsides while the baby suckles, this pain lasts throughout the feeding, continues immediately after it, and sometimes persists between feedings. Sometimes a sharp, shooting pain radiates from the nipple to the chest, back, or arm. All this is accompanied by increased sensitivity of the nipples, itching. If you are sure that the cause of the pain is not improper attachment or lactostasis, and you do not suffer from eczema, herpes or psoriasis, then it is most likely that you have thrush. Tests will help to confirm the diagnosis.

Warning: You don’t have to stop breastfeeding at all. To treat thrush in a child’s mouth, your doctor may prescribe special antifungal drops. You also need to follow the rules of hygiene when feeding: wash your hands often, cool your breasts carefully before feeding to reduce pain, as a last resort, express milk and feed your baby with a spoon. However, remember that with thrush, breast milk cannot be stored, and bottles and other utensils must be boiled after use.

After feeding at home, wipe the nipple with a solution of vinegar (2 tbsp per 1 liter of water), air dry your breasts and, if this does not cause you discomfort and pain, walk without a bra, if possible with bare breasts (without, of course, allowing hypothermia).

Author: Anna Nikitina
Consultant: Veronika Nazarova (Maslova), family doctor, homeopath

Ways to treat oral thrush with natural remedies

Treatment of oral thrush: how is it?

Thrush of the oral cavity not only looks bad, it is a rather painful and problematic disease. It can be easily passed from one person to another even before the symptoms of candidiasis begin to appear. To make matters worse, there are many cultures of drug-resistant fungi that cannot be cured with conventional antifungal agents.

But there are still safe, proven and natural remedies for treating thrush. Strong immunity, fermented foods and essential oils will help not only cope with the problem, but also prevent its further occurrence.

What is oral thrush?

Overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans in the oral cavity leads to the appearance of thrush. Fungi in a small amount are present in the mouth of every person, without harming him. However, when there are too many of them, they spread throughout the oral cavity, gums, tonsils, back wall of the larynx. This causes symptoms such as white patches, redness, and even bleeding. Left untreated, oral thrush (or candidiasis) weakens the immune system and contributes to the development of more serious diseases.

Oral thrush is very “sociable”, meaning it is easily spread from person to person. Pregnant women can pass thrush to their baby at the time of birth; children can pick up by exchanging toys with other children. And adults pass it on to each other through saliva.

When you have oral candidiasis, your doctor will usually prescribe antifungal medications. But antifungal medications can damage the liver and affect estrogen levels. They can also cause an allergic reaction and interact with other medications. In addition, antifungal creams and medications only treat the symptoms and do not affect the environment in which the fungus thrives.

If it is resistant to the drug, which is quite common due to the spread of antibiotic resistance, amphotericin B may be prescribed.

Amphotericin B is an antifungal medicine given by intravenous drip over 2 to 6 hours every day. It can cause serious side effects, including fever, rapid breathing, blurred vision, fainting, vomiting, and changes in heartbeat. The drug should only be used to treat life-threatening fungal infections. However, people with weakened immune systems due to stress, illness, or medication are prescribed stronger drugs, such as amphotericin, due to the resistance of microorganisms to drugs.

Fortunately, there are safer and more natural ways to treat candidiasis, particularly oral candidiasis. The most important element is the elimination of foods and drugs that cause this disease. Instead of using antibiotics that weaken the immune system, look for natural and effective essential oils (like oregano oil) that have antibiotic and antifungal properties. It is also important to maintain optimal pH balance in the body and stimulate the development of beneficial bacteria in the gut with the help of probiotics and fermented foods.

Symptoms of oral thrush

Oral thrush develops very quickly, and symptoms can become pronounced and dangerous over time:

• white coating on the tongue, upper palate, or inner cheeks. It can cause pain and even bleeding if touched by teeth, food, or a toothbrush.
• inflammation of the mouth
• pain
• loss of taste
• erosion of tooth enamel
• mucus in the mouth

Breastfed babies and their mothers can pass the infection to each other while breastfeeding. During pregnancy, a woman with a vaginal yeast infection can pass the yeast on to her baby at birth, causing him to develop oral thrush.

Young children with oral candidiasis may be irritable and restless, and may also have feeding problems. If a woman’s breasts are infected with a fungus, she has a shiny or dry areola, redness, itching and tenderness in the nipples, and stabbing or unusual pain deep in her breasts and nipples.

In severe cases, the lesions may spread outside the mouth, traveling down the esophagus to the stomach. This condition is called candidal esophagitis and can cause difficulty swallowing and gastrointestinal bleeding.

The body may also show signs of a metabolic response as the fungus and toxins are released. Symptoms that occur when the fungus is eliminated include brain damage, headache, fatigue, dizziness, bloating, gas, sweating, sinus infections, skin rashes, and flu-like symptoms. These signs usually disappear within 7-10 days. When the fungus leaves your body, you will feel more energetic and focused.

Main causes of oral thrush

1. Weakened immunity

Weak immunity can lead to the development of candidiasis. Therefore, it often appears in young children and the elderly. We all have fungi in our mouths, on our skin, and in our digestive tract, but stress, some illnesses, and medications can upset the microbial balance and cause Candida to grow.

Diseases and disorders that affect the immune system make us more susceptible to infections. HIV/AIDS, for example, destroys the cells of the immune system, as do other inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.

In fact, in the 1980s there was a surge in the incidence of oral thrush, which was associated with the growth and spread of HIV infection and AIDS. And the widespread use of immunosuppressants has only exacerbated the problem.

2. Medicines

Some medications, such as birth control pills, corticosteroids, and antibiotics, disrupt the balance of microorganisms in the mouth.

Birth control pills adversely affect the body, leading to the development of a fungal infection. Some women note that birth control pills provoke the appearance of fungal infections. A study conducted in Italy, which included 153 patients, concluded that oral contraceptives can contribute to the recurrence of candidiasis.

According to the study, patients with recurrent fungus tend to take or have taken birth control pills, antibiotics, or have had more sexual partners compared to controls. All this increases the risk of developing candidal vaginitis.

Inhaled corticosteroids used by people with asthma can also cause health problems because they increase the risk of developing a fungus in the mouth.

Over the past decade, there has been ample scientific evidence of immune dysfunction associated with antibiotic use and a reduction in beneficial probiotics. Antibiotics kill both good and bad bacteria in the body, allowing candidiasis to thrive.

Probiotics refer to beneficial bacteria or flora present in the human digestive tract. These bacteria, yeasts and molds make up 70-85% of the immune system and help break down food to take nutrients from it.

3. Cancer treatment

Cancer patients are at a higher risk of developing fungal infections because cancer and its treatments (radiation or chemotherapy) weaken the immune system, allowing harmful germs to spread in the body.

In 2005, a study was published in the Journal of Infection that showed that invasive candidiasis is a common and serious complication of cancer and its treatment. Of 224 patients (33%) undergoing cancer treatment, 74 had active candidiasis pathogens and a confirmed diagnosis of invasive candidiasis.

4. Diabetes

In diabetic patients who do not treat or control their disease, saliva contains large amounts of sugar. It promotes the growth of the fungus, in particular Candida . The fungus is a type of yeast, and sugar feeds the yeast. As a result, people with diabetes are more likely to develop oral thrush. According to a study published in Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism , diabetic patients are more susceptible to infections because the hyperglycemic environment causes immune dysfunction.

5. Dentures

Sugar and bacteria can build up on dentures, allowing candidiasis to grow and overwhelm good bacteria in the mouth, especially if the person has taken antibiotics in the past or eats foods high in sugar and refined carbohydrates. It is very important to properly care for dentures and clean them every day, because plaque on dentures can lead to the accumulation of microorganisms and the development of candidiasis.

Top 6 products to help treat oral thrush

1. Cinnamon

Studies have shown that people who include cinnamon in their diet tend to be less likely to suffer from fungal overgrowth. Cinnamon, which has many health benefits, also contains antifungal compounds that control microbial growth, according to scientists in Brazil.

2. Unsweetened cranberry juice

A cup of unsweetened cranberry juice will create an acidic environment in your mouth that makes it difficult for fungus to grow.

3. Fermented vegetables

Fermented vegetables strengthen the immune system and improve the microflora in the intestines. Kimchi, pickled cucumbers and sauerkraut enrich the body with probiotics and help restore the balance of bacteria in the mouth and throughout the body. Regular consumption of fermented vegetables also improves immunity.

4. Warm starchy vegetables

Vegetables such as sweet potatoes, yams, peas, mung beans, lentils, red beans, pumpkin, carrots, and beets help the spleen clear fungus from the body.

5. Dairy products

By adding fermented milk products and foods rich in probiotics (such as goat’s milk, kefir or yogurt) to your diet, you can support the work of beneficial bacteria and effectively fight the fungus.

6. Coconut oil

Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties, and the combination of lauric and caprylic acids in its composition kills harmful fungus. A 2007 study published in the journal Journal of Medicinal Food, , found that coconut oil was as effective in fighting fungus as fluconazole, a common antifungal drug prescribed for thrush.

Gargling with coconut oil is one of the best ways to prevent oral diseases. According to Indian Journal of Dental Research, oil pulling removes toxins from the mouth and creates a clean environment.

Simply gargle with 1-2 tablespoons of coconut oil for 10-20 minutes every day. In no case do not swallow the oil, because it contains toxins and bacteria. Then rinse your mouth with warm water and brush your teeth.

Foods to avoid

Processed, refined and sugary foods create an environment in the body that is conducive to the development of the fungus. Even fruits and natural sugars like honey and maple syrup should be consumed in very moderation.

A study published in the Journal of Reproductive Medicine, showed that sugar restriction resulted in a significant reduction in the incidence and severity of candidiasis . A study of 100 women attempted to elucidate the role of sugar in the pathogenesis of this infection.

Alcohol should also be avoided if you want to get rid of oral thrush forever. Alcohol weakens the immune system and allows the fungus to grow

Dietary supplements for oral thrush

1. Natural antibiotics

• Raw garlic . The allicin in raw garlic is a powerful antifungal, antibiotic, and antiviral agent, making it an effective natural treatment for thrush. One clove of garlic a day or taking garlic supplements will help you fight the infection.
• Oil of oregano. Oregano oil has antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects! It is enough to take 500 mg or 5 drops of oil per day for no more than 10 days.
• Colloidal silver . This beneficial alkaline and antiviral agent strengthens and supports the immune system. Take 1-2 tablespoons daily to treat infection.

Caprylic acid. Since caprylic acid acts as a natural anti-yeast agent, it is believed that it can penetrate the membrane of fungal cells, cause their death and then excrete from the body, contributing to the treatment of candidiasis. A 2001 study found that caprylic acid reduced symptoms associated with viral and fungal infections, including thrush.

Natural remedies for oral thrush

1. Essential oils

• Carnation. One of the most striking features of clove oil is its ability to fight oral thrush. A study published in Microbiology , looked at the effectiveness of clove oil compared to other antifungal agents. The results show that cloves were as effective as nystatin (a drug commonly prescribed to treat oral thrush and has many unpleasant side effects). Another study in 2005 found that clove oil has strong antifungal activity against fungal pathogens. Dilute 2-3 drops of clove oil with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and gargle this mixture in your mouth for 20 minutes. Then spit out the oil and brush your teeth.
• Oregano. Oregano oil is able to quickly destroy bacteria, viruses and infections inside the body. In 2010, scientists conducted a study that was published in the journal “ Brazilian Journal of Microbiology “. During this study, they noticed that oregano oil has a potent antifungal effect against the fungus Candida and could be included in an alternative treatment for oral thrush. Drink a glass of water every day with 1-2 drops of oregano oil. The course can last no more than 10 days; the break between courses should be at least a week.
• Mirra. Myrrh oil is capable of destroying parasites and fungi, including Candida. A 2012 study found that the combination of sodium fluoride found in toothpaste and botanicals such as myrrh, sage and chamomile showed antifungal activity, stimulated the immune response and reduced inflammation. Toothpaste with herbal extracts effectively controls oral candidiasis.

2. Baking soda and vinegar. Mothers with thrush on the nipples should apply white distilled vinegar and one teaspoon of baking soda diluted with a glass of water to the affected area.
3. Correct dental hygiene. Because of the plaque and sugar that build up on dentures, it’s important to clean them thoroughly and properly. You should always remove your dentures before going to bed, this gives the oral mucosa an opportunity to recover. They should also be soaked overnight in vinegar or a natural denture cleaner.
4. Pau d’arco tea. Take a tablet to treat oral thrush or just drink pau d’arco tea. This drink has antifungal properties and naturally blocks the spread of fungus in the mouth and vagina. To make pau d’arco tea, pour two cups of bark into four cups of boiling water and let it simmer for 20 minutes. Then take the tea off the heat and let it cool for at least an hour. Strain the drink and drink in small portions throughout the day.

Keywords

• Overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans causes oral thrush.
• Oral thrush can be easily transmitted from person to person, including from mother to child and vice versa.
• To reduce the risk of thrush, it is necessary to maintain a strong immune system and limit the intake of sugar, which promotes protein growth.