Candida Yeast Infection

Lactoferrin. Several studies have found that lactoferrin, a subfraction of whey protein, inhibits a wide range of bacteria, yeasts, and even certain intestinal parasites. Lactoferrin taken orally appears to survive absorption in the stomach and can make its way into secretory tissue such as breast and salivary glands. It has been described as an important part of the primary host immune defense against microbes including Candida. Candida albicans, in particular, has been proven to be inhibited by lactoferrin. In lab studies, the majority of Candida albicans isolates succumbed to lactoferrin.

Lactoferrin worked well in combination with fluconazole, a prescription antifungal agent, demonstrating that lactoferrin and antifungal medications work together to reduce oral yeast infections in HIV-infected individuals. In a different study human lactoferrin was effective against candida strains that had become resistant to fluconazole and amphotericin B, raising the possibility of a potent new therapy.