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Ep 94: Candida Overgrowth: Signs, Root Causes, Testing, and What Actually Helps

October 29, 2026 · 58 min

Show notes

Could fungal overgrowth be part of the picture behind your ongoing digestive issues? In this episode, I'm diving into Candida, the fungal community within your gut microbiome, and how this impacts both digestion and overall health. We'll explore potential risk factors, underlying root causes, testing options and emerging research on the relationship between fungi, bacteria, and health. Simply "starving Candida" heavily oversimplifies the issue, since at its core, candida isn't the main issue. We'll dig into dietary approaches, supplementation, and natural solutions to explore to truly overcome fungal overgrowth.

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE:
  • The differences between localized Candida infections, suspected intestinal overgrowth, SIFO, and invasive candidiasis.
  • Digestive issues and patterns that may warrant investigation into fungal issues.
  • How fungal and bacterial overgrowth can coexist in the small intestine.
  • Risk factors and underlying root cause drivers of candida overgrowth
  • My perspective on stress, dietary patterns, and environmental exposure history.
  • The limitations of stool testing and why it cannot confirm SIFO.
  • Early research involving Candida, ADHD, anxiety, and inflammatory bowel disease.
  • The iron x candida connection
  • Should you follow a strict anti-Candida diet? Probably not.
  • How we combine nourishment, lifestyle support, and targeted interventions for candida overgrowth.

LINKS:
  • Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE
  • Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free!
  • Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off
  • Create a Fullscript account and get access to 15% off our recommended practitioner-grade supplements here.
  • Apply for HAN's 1:1 Coaching Program!
  • Listen to Episode 84 - Why Most SIBO Protocols Fail
  • Listen to Episode 62 - The Hidden Gut Disruptor: How Mold Exposure Impacts Your Digestion, Gut Microbiome & Histamine
  • Listen to Episode 82 - Why Your Iron Levels Won't Budge: The Deeper Root Causes of Low Iron
  • Listen to Episode 87 - What Came First—Your Anxiety or Your Gut Issues? Understanding the Gut–Brain Connection
  • Listen to Episode 34 - Breaking Down Microbiome Imbalances: dysbiosis, candida, and leaky gut

CONNECT WITH HANNAH:

Instagram | Website

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