Already, in four teaching hospitals in the U.S., other strains of candida are appearing that seem to be resistant to fluconazole, one of the most popular new antifungal medications. Resistance to fluconazole has, in the past, been seen only in cases of thrush in AIDS patients. Now it is being seen in other patients, as well. Poor digestion is another factor in candida overgrowth, since the presence of hydrochloric acid in the stomach helps kill off many types of unwanted fungi. As we get older, our stomachs naturally produce less hydrochloric acid.
Some people have almost none.
Others neutralize or inactivate their hydrochloric acid when they take antacids such as TUMS and Rolaids. In addition to not being able to digest your food properly, colonies of candida and other fungi can proliferate when your body is not producing sufficient gastric juices. Numerous degenerative diseases like arthritis, lupus, and other autoimmune diseases have connections to fungal overgrowth. Any change in hormone balance can also contribute to an overgrowth of candida, including pregnancy, the use of birth control pills, and hormone replacement therapy. This includes alcoholic beverages, which need to be eliminated completely for a while.