A common question we come across is, “Is glutamine beneficial for Candida?” Glutamine is an amino acid, and while many online sources promote its consumption, ranging from minimal amounts to exorbitant doses, it’s essential to understand its role. Typically, the average recommended dose ranges from 3 to 8 grams or 8,000 milligrams per day, with some extreme suggestions of 100 grams per day. Naturally, our bodies produce glutamine. When you consume a balanced diet rich in aminos, you’ll obtain the necessary amount of glutamine. Hence, the real emphasis should be on acquiring amino acids from whole foods rather than supplements.
Relying heavily on supplements can sometimes be counterproductive. For instance, melatonin, a hormone, is increasingly being consumed as a supplement. The increasing trend towards heavy supplementation is concerning. In our view, a balanced diet and a minimal approach to supplementation is more beneficial. Supplements should be secondary, with the primary focus on natural foods and a healthy lifestyle.
Many individuals resort to glutamine, hoping it will mend their ‘leaky gut’. While it’s true that glutamine serves as fuel for enterocytes or cells lining the gut and contributes to the production of GABA, a hormone that affects anxiety, relying solely on it may not be the best approach. We advocate for natural sources of prebiotics and nourishing the gut lining through fermented and cultured foods. Here’s a list of some foods beneficial for gut health:
- Burdock roots
- Chicory roots
- Dandelion roots
- Garlic
- Onions
- Leeks
- Asparagus
- Artichokes
- Beet roots
- Green beans
- Raw cacao
- Green tea
- Broccoli
- Brussel sprouts
- Chinese vegetables
- Legumes
- Sunflower seeds
- Pumpkin seeds
- Pecan nuts
In essence, we firmly believe in the power of natural foods over supplements when it comes to nourishing and healing the gut lining.
Disclaimer: It’s always important to consult with your healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or supplement routine.