Treating yeast infections

Diaper rash is a general description for skin irritations that occur under the diaper area in babies. If the rash is mild, and does not involve the skin fold regions, it is usually the result of contact irritation (friction with the diaper) or an allergic reaction to ingredients and fragrances used in the diaper or washes. However, more severe diaper rash is often caused by a bacterial (Staff and Strep) or yeast (Candida) infection. Fungi and bacteria thrive in the warm moist, environments that result from diapering.

In the case of yeast infections caused by Candida, bright red areas form on the skin, often with lesions at the borders. Candida mostly takes hold in skin folds and creases. Bacterial infections are normally associated with tiny blisters or pustules that are easily ruptured.

Diaper rash remedies

The first step is to ensure frequent diaper changes and limit fecal and urine exposure to the affected area. (Frequent diaper changes are also the number one preventative measure for diaper rash)

Use water and soft cloths for cleaning. Disposable wipes may contain irritating chemicals so should be avoided. Take steps to ensure that the skin is completely dry before applying a new diaper. The use of talcum powder or other moisture absorbing powders is a good preventative measure.

If the rash is mild and likely to result from contact irritation, the application of a ‘barrier’ cream or ointment may help to protect the skin from further friction. Again, it is vital that the skin is completely dry before applying a ‘barrier’ cream. It is thought that a zinc oxide based ointment may be more effective than petroleum jelly (Vaseline) as these have an astringent (drying) quality.

Exposing the irritated skin to the air for as long as possible between diaper changes is a very simple, but effective, diaper rash remedy.

As bacterial and yeast infections can progress to secondary areas of the body, if the diaper rash persists or is severe, it is important that you discuss the symptoms with a pediatrician. Diaper rash home remedies may not be effective and your health professional may suggest an antibiotic ointment for the treatment of bacterial infections, or an antifungal topical treatment for yeast infections (diaper Candidiasis). A mild topical corticosteriod preparation is sometimes considered to relive irritation.

Probiotics are live microorganisms, which when ingested, provide health benefits by improving the balance of healthy intestinal flora (microflora) in the gut. The most common microorganisms used as probiotics are Lactic acid bacteria (the best known being Lactobacillus acidophilus) and bifidobacterial strains.

Studies have linked the best probiotics with a wide range of health benefits including:

• Management of antibiotic associated diarrhea and traveler’s diarrhea.
• Reducing inflammation in the gut and assisting in the management of inflammatory bowel syndromes.
• Preventing harmful bacterial growth and associated toxins.
• Yeast infection treatment by restoring the natural balance of gut microflora thought to keep Candida yeast growth in check. Probiotics are often recommended as part of a Candida diet or yeast free diet.
• Managing lactose intolerance via the action of lactic acid bacteria.
• Prevention of colon cancers. It is thought that probiotics may bind with carcinogenic substances or reduce the activity of harmful enzymes.
• Improving the absorptive capacity of the gut.

Untangling the definitions: Probiotics, Antibiotics, Prebiotics and Symbiotics

It’s useful to think of probiotics, which add beneficial bacteria, in contrast with antibiotics, which are designed to destroy bacteria in the body. Probiotics are often recommended following a course of antibiotics in order to restore the balance of healthy bacteria in the gut.

Probiotics, comprised of live bacteria, are sometimes confused with prebiotics, which are non-digestible ingredients, (usually oligosaccharides), that stimulate the activity of beneficial bacteria in the digestive system. Note also that synbiotics are nutritional supplements combining probiotics and prebiotics.

Choosing the best probiotic supplement

There is no standardized manufacturing process for probiotic supplements, so their effectiveness varies between products. When choosing the best probiotics for your needs, bear in mind the following points:

• While probiotic supplements are available in liquid, powder or capsule form, most health professionals recommend purchasing probiotic capsules. In particular it is important to make sure the capsule has been specifically designed to withstand stomach acids and pass intact to the gastro intestinal tract.
• Multi-strain probiotics that contain both Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species are the most common. These replicate the bacteria found in most healthy diets. The concentration of bacteria is measured in colony forming units (CFUs) and will vary from product to product. Studies have shown health benefits for products ranging from 30 million to more than 1 trillion CFU/day, but more CFUs does not always mean better quality.
• The best probiotics provide very specific information on the strains provided and how many CFUs per strain.
• Products should have an expiration date and the best probiotic supplements use inert packaging that does not allow any contamination. Note that some products will require refrigeration.