O intestinal fungal overgrowth (SIFO) is a condition that affects the small intestine, in which an increased presence of fungal organisms occurs. At first, it can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, bloating, excessive gas, and more. In general, this condition is caused by poor diet or the prolonged use of certain medications.

What can cause fungal overgrowth in the gut?

In short, hypochlorhydria is when the presence of hydrochloric acid in the stomach decreases, i.e. the stomach acid is in lesser quantity, which causes uncontrolled stomach and intestinal health.

Also, patients with diseases such as Crohn's, diabetes, and gastritis, or who suffer from lactose, fructose, or gluten intolerance are also at greater risk for fungal overgrowth.

Read more: Habits that hinder healthy bowels

Most common symptoms

The most common symptoms of this condition are:

• Oral and vaginal candidiasis
• Stomach aches and cramps
• Diarrhea
• Urinary Infection
• Headaches and migraines
• Excessive gas and abdominal bloating
• Chronic fatigue
• Hair loss
• Brain fog (mental confusion and memory lapses)
• Desire to eat sweets

Read also: Galactosemia: What it is, symptoms and what to eat

How diet can prevent intestinal fungal overgrowth

Finally, diet is one way to prevent the development of this condition or to help in its treatment and the relief of its symptoms. In this sense, the general recommendation is that patients with this condition should add more leaves and vegetables to their diet, as well as low-sugar fruits, good fats, and proteins (meat, egg, legumes, etc.).

Not only that, there are foods that are considered antifungals Therefore, these foods can help prevent the development of mold overgrowth.

Read more: Bacterial overgrowth: What it is, symptoms and treatment