Oral Thrush, also known as oral candidiasis, occurs when the Candida albicans yeast accumulates in the mouth's lining.  This condition typically affects toddlers or infants, but anyone can experience it.  Oral Thrush causes whitish or yellowish bumps to appear on the inner cheeks and tongue.  It is possible for Oral Thrush to spread to the roof of the mouth, gums, tonsils, or even the back of your throat.  Oral Thrush is typically a minor problem and it can be resolved via natural remedies and treatments.  It can, however, worsen if you do not address it quickly, or if you have a compromised/weakened immune system. Th

The early stages of Oral Thrush may not reveal any symptoms.  As the infection worsens, common signs and symptoms include:

• White or yellow patches/bumps on inner cheeks, tongue, gums, tonsils or lips
• Cotton-like sensation in the mouth
• Cracking or redness in corners of the mouth
• Loss of taste
• Slightly raised lesions that resemble cottage cheese
• Burning or soreness when you eat food
• Difficulty swallowing

Similar to other yeast infections, Oral Thrush is caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans in the mouth.  A small amount of this yeast exists in the mouth and doesn't harm or damage your gums, cheeks, tonsils, or throat.  The infection occurs when the immune system is weak or compromised, which causes an imbalance of microorganisms in the body.  The protective measures of the immune system can mistakenly interpret bad microbes for beneficial microbes, causing the body to produce more of them.  In the case of Oral Thrush, the body produces more Candida albicans.  Several risk factors for Oral Thrush include:

• Medications (antibiotics that disturb natural balance of microorganisms in the body)
• Having dentures (especially upper dentures)
• Weakened immune system
• Diabetes
• Vaginal yeast infections (caused by the same fungus that causes Oral Thrush)

• Gargling with saltwater is a great natural remedy for cleansing the mouth.  The antiseptic and soothing properties of salt water help to relieve symptoms of Oral Thrush.  Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt in one cup of warm water.  Little by little, swish the solution around in your mouth and then spit it out. 
• Call on natural yeast killers if you want to reduce symptoms of Oral Thrush.  Garlic and onion are two foods that help decrease the presence of yeast because they have powerful antifungal and antibacterial properties.  You can make an immune-boosting fire cider with garlic and onion, or you can add garlic and onions to your meal.  Some people don't mind a strong flavor and will add garlic to different fruit/vegetables juices.
• It is very common for babies and nursing mothers to be deficient in vitamin D.  Vitamin D is crucial for immune function and vitamin D deficiency compromises the immune system, which increases a child's risk of Oral Thrush.  It is important for babies to get 10-20 minutes of direct sunlight per day, preferably before 10 a.m. and after 2 p.m.  If this is impossible, consult with your health care provider about a vitamin D supplement. 
• In a 2010 study, mice were given curcumin to treat symptoms of Oral Thrush.  Curcumin's antifungal activity against Candida albicans proved effective at reducing the infection, especially when combined pipine, which is found in black pepper.  Turmeric is one of the best anti-inflammatory foods out there, and drinking golden milk, turmeric smoothie, or turmeric tea may help remedy Oral Thrush.
• People with dentures have an increased risk of Oral Thrush, especially if the dentures don't fit properly.  The risk increases if the dentures are not properly cleaned, because unclean dentures provide a thriving environment for Candida albicans.  The antifungal properties of raw apple cider vinegar may be an excellent alternative remedy for Oral Thrush.  Add one teaspoon of raw apple cider vinegar to one cup of water.  Swish this mixture in your mouth for 15 seconds.  Spit it out and repeat until you've finished the solution.
• If you have Oral Thrush, it is very important to immediately cut sugar out of your diet.  Since yeast feeds on sugar, health experts advise against sugar consumption.  If a child has Oral Thrush, the mother should stop consuming a lot of sugar.  Additionally, a mother may not want to breastfeed because it is possible to get itchy nipples.  You may want to pump the milk and use a bottle instead. 
• Some people who have experienced Oral Thrush swear by baking soda as a natural remedy.  According to a 2009 study, baking soda exhibited powerful disinfectant properties against Candida albicans when adhered to an acrylic resin.  Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda in one cup of warm water.  Swish the solution in your mouth and spit out the rinse until you have finished the solution. 

• Garlic 
• Onion
• Kimchi
• Kombucha
• Miso
• Artichokes
• Avocado
• Berries (in moderation)
• Tomatoes
• Kale
• Flaxseeds
• Pumpkin seeds
• Apple cider vinegar
• Raw almond butter
• Sunflower seeds
• Coconut oil
• Kefir