Candida
Candida Overgrowth Treatment in NYC
Expert Holistic Medical Care from Dr. Dean Mitchell, author of Conquering Candida
Dr. Dean Mitchell is a Specialist in Treating Candida Overgrowth
Candida overgrowth is one of the most misunderstood – and often dismissed – medical conditions today. Many patients, especially women, spend years seeking answers to chronic fatigue, digestive issues, brain fog, recurrent yeast infections, sugar cravings, and unexplained symptoms . . . only to be told “everything looks normal.”
Dr. Dean Mitchell knows this story well – because most of his Candida patients arrive in his NYC practice after seeing six, eight, or even ten other doctors without relief.
As a board-certified physician with over 30 years of experience in functional medicine, immunology, and allergy medicine, Dr. Mitchell is nationally recognized for diagnosing and treating complex Candida overgrowth. His unique approach blends the latest microbiome science with holistic, patient-centered care – and forms the foundation of his book Conquering Candida.
If you suspect that Candida overgrowth is behind your ongoing symptoms, you’re in the right place. You can also take our Candida Symptom Questionnaire to help evaluate if you likely have candida overgrowth.
What is Candida Overgrowth?
Candida is a yeast, naturally found in the mouth, gut, vaginal tract, and skin. In small amounts, it’s harmless – and even part of a healthy microbiome.
Candida becomes a problem when something disrupts the balance of bacteria and fungi in the body, allowing yeast to grow unchecked. This imbalance triggers inflammation locally and systemically, leading to multi-organ symptoms that traditional medicine often overlooks.
Common Disruptors include:
- Long-term or repeated antibiotic use
- Acid blockers / proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
- Birth control pills or high-estrogen states
- Corticosteroids (including inhaled steroids)
- Diets high in refined carbohydrates and sugar
- Chronic stress
- Underlying gut dysbiosis
- Immunosuppressive medications
As Dr. Mitchell explains in Conquering Candida, Candida overgrowth is not an invasive infection – it’s an inflammatory response triggered when the microbiome loses its diversity and resilience. Modern research from Dr. Satish Rao confirms this, showing that Candida can overgrow in the small intestine and contribute to symptoms often mistaken for IBS.
How Dr. Mitchell Diagnoses Candida Overgrowth
A Clinical, Microbiome-Focused Approach from 30+ Years of Experience
Diagnosing Candida overgrowth isn’t as simple as ordering one test. As Dr. Mitchell explains in Conquering Candida, there is no single perfect laboratory test – Candida overgrowth is a microbiome imbalance, not a bloodstream infection. That’s why many patients are told “everything looks normal” even when their symptoms are unmistakable.
Instead of relying on unreliable at-home tests or incomplete lab panels, Dr. Mitchell uses a pattern-based diagnostic approach rooted in immunology, microbiome science, and decades of clinical observation.
A Detailed Medical History – The Most Important Diagnostic Tool
Dr. Mitchell uses a proven, medically sound evaluation that blends:
- a detailed microbiome-focused history
- long-term antibiotic or steroid use
- acid-blocker medications
- hormonal exposure (birth control, estrogen)
- diet patterns, sugar intake, carb cravings
- gut symptoms (bloating, gas, IBS-like issues) as well as vaginal, sinus, or skin fungal flare-ups
- brain fog, fatigue, mood changes
- mold or chemical sensitivity
These patterns often reveal Candida long before any lab can.
Some doctors think that an overgrowth of Candida isn’t a problem. We completely disagree. “Candida is diagnosed by recognizing the pattern – not by chasing a single test.” – Dr. Mitchell
Additional Diagnostic Tools
Instead of lengthy questionnaires, Dr. Mitchell uses his 15 key diagnostic questions – a fast, accurate way to uncover the triggers and symptoms most associated with Candida. If multiple answers are “yes,” Candida overgrowth becomes highly likely.
While history guides the diagnosis, Dr. Mitchell may use selective testing to support the clinical picture, not to replace it.
Targeted Lab Tests
- Urine organic acids (yeast metabolites)
- Candida antibodies (IgA, IgG, IgM)
- ASCA antibody (may indicate intestinal fungal overgrowth)
- Nutrient deficiencies commonly seen with Candida (low B12, low ferritin, low magnesium, low vitamin D)
What He Doesn’t Rely On
- Stool testing (Candida often does not show up even when overgrown)
- Saliva / “spit tests” (scientifically unreliable)
Screening for Overlapping Conditions
When symptoms suggest other microbiome issues, he may assess for:
- SIBO
- SIFO
- Celiac
- MCAS
Dr. Mitchell’s Candida Expertise
A Leading National Voice in Candida & Microbiome-Driven Illness
Dr. Mitchell is one of the few physicians in the country who truly specializes in Candida overgrowth and yeast hypersensitivity.
His credentials include:
- Author of Conquering Candida (based on 20+ years of clinical experience)
- Board-certified in Immunology and Allergy and internal medicine
- Clinical instructor and experienced lecturer on micrbiome disorders
- Host of The Smartest Doctor in the Room podcast featuring leading Candida researchers and GI specialists
- One of the earliest physicians to apply functional medicine principles to Candida care
- Nationally recognized for treating chronic, complex, and multi-system Candida cases
Most importantly, he listens to patients who feel unheard. Many women come to him after years of medical gaslighting – told their symptoms are psychological or “just stress.” Dr. Mitchell’s work has helped validate their experiences, uncover the root cause, and guide them toward recovery.
Why Standard Medical Tests Often Miss Candida
Candida Overgrowth is Real – But Requires the Right Diagnostic Lens
Dr. Mitchell has treated thousands of Candida cases using a clinical diagnostic approach, a method shared by pioneers such as Dr. William Crook, Dr. Orian Truss, Dr. Marjorie Crandall, and Dr. George Kroker.
Most traditional tests are designed to identify invasive Candida infections – serious conditions seen in immunocompromised patients – not the microbiome-driven overgrowth seen in otherwise healthy individuals.
Candida overgrowth occurs along mucosal surfaces, not in the bloodstream, and rarely shows up on basic lab tests. This leads many physicians to dismiss the condition altogether.
Dr. Mitchell approaches diagnosis differently.
He looks at:
- detailed medical history
- antibiotic and medication exposure
- diet patterns and gut symptoms
- vaginal or skin yeast history
- immune system tendencies
- oral, sinus, or respiratory symptoms
Conditions Often Associated with Candida Overgrowth
Candida rarely exists in isolation. It often overlaps with:
- small intestinal fungal overgrowth (SIFO)
- small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
- leaky gut / intestinal permeability
- IBS
- autoimmune-like symptoms
- chronic vaginitis
- recurrent sinusitis
- food sensitivities
These connections are supported by research from experts like Dr. Satish Rao and Dr. Mark Pimental, as well as decades of clinical observation by leaders such as Dr. Marjorie Crandall and Dr. Kroker.
Why Patients Choose Dr. Mitchell for Candida Care
What Makes His Approach Different
- He wrote the book – literally
Conquering Candida is one of the most comprehensive guides on diagnosing and treating Candida today - He blends conventional and functional medicine
You get the best of both worlds – science-driven and holistic insight - He understands multi-system symptoms
Candida affects the gut, brain, hormones, immune system, and skin – Dr. Mitchell addresses the full picture - He treats the root cause, not just the symptoms
- He listens
Patients consistently say the same thing – “this is the first doctor who believed me” - He has decades of clinical expertise in this exact condition
- He accepts patients that other doctors have dismissed
Telehealth New Patient Meeting
We know it can be difficult to always find time to get to the doctor’s office which is why we are now offering telehealth virtual new patient meetings with Dr. Mitchell. During the meeting, you will speak directly with Dr. Mitchell about your health issues just like you would at his office.
It is important for all those who are interested in a telehealth appointment with me to know that medico-legally I cannot diagnose or treat anyone unless we have a face-to-face, in-person office visit. I cannot prescribe any medications or supplements from a telehealth visit (the exception to this is if you live in New York State).
These telehealth visits are intended for educational and informational purposes only. My goal is to help provide you with these resources to work with your local healthcare provider to get the best care possible.
Call our office today at 212-397-0157 to schedule your meeting or request an appointment online.
Dr. Mitchell’s Candida Overgrowth Treatment Approach
A Personalized, Multi-Phase Plan Based on Immune Science & Microbiome Healing
Dr. Mitchell’s treatment approach goes far beyond a one-size-fits-all or a simple prescription. Candida overgrowth is a condition that affects the gut, immune system, hormones, skin, and nervous system – so successful treatment must address each of these layers.
Drawing from three decades of clinical experience, Dr. Mitchell uses a strategic, comprehensive protocol designed to reduce yeast, calm inflammation, rebuild the gut lining, and restore long-term balance. His program typically includes a combination of the following therapies.
1. Antifungal Therapy
The first step is addressing the yeast directly.
Dr. Mitchell often begins treatment with a well-tolerated antifungal that works locally in the gut without entering the bloodstream. This makes it extremely safe yet highly effective for reducing Candida overgrowth and relieving digestive symptoms.
Depending on your history and severity, different protocols may be recommended to stage dosing plans to minimize “die-off” reactions carefully.
2. Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) for Yeast Hypersensitivity
One of the signature elements of our approach. Many patients with Candida overgrowth also develop yeast hypersensitivity – an exaggerated immune response that continues to trigger symptoms even after yeast levels fall back into balance.
To address this, Dr. Mitchell uses sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) to retrain and calm the immune system. SLIT delivers extremely small doses of Candida antigen under the tongue to help the immune system respond more normally over time.
Benefits of SLIT include:
- reduces chronic, lingering Candida-related symptoms
- helps stabilize the immune system
- addresses the “hypersensitivity loop”
- helps prevent relapses in long-term sufferers
- safe for both adults and children
SLIT is especially helpful for patients who flare easily, have complex or cyclical symptoms, or have been struggling for years.
3. IV Vitamin Therapy for Immune & Gut Support
Candida overgrowth places heavy stress on the immune system and the gut, often leaving patients depleted. To support recovery, Dr. Mitchell may incorporate IV vitamin therapy – especially in patients who have:
- severe fatigue
- nutrient absorption issues
- long-term gut inflammation
- chronic stress or immune weakness
- vitamin deficiencies
His IV formulas typically include combinations of vitamin C, B-complex, magnesium, glutathione, and immune-modulating antioxidants. These infusions help restore energy, reduce inflammation, and support detoxification pathways, especially during the early phases of treatment.
4. Gut Restoration & Microbiome Rebuilding
Once Candida is reduced, the next step is strengthening the gut. This may include:
- targeted probiotics
- digestive enzymes
- l-glutamine or other gut-lining nutrients
- anti-inflammatory botanical support
- microbiome diversification strategies
Dr. Mitchell focuses heavily on rebuilding the gut lining to prevent future relapse which is supported by research from Dr. Rao and others identifying fungal overgrowth in the small intestine.
5. Candida Dietary Personalization – Realistic, Flexible, Sustainable
No starvation. No shame. No perfectionism. Dr. Mitchell developed a practical, real-world Candida diet framework that helps calm inflammation and starve excess yeast without overwhelming patients or requiring rigid restrictions. This includes:
- reducing sugar and refined carbs
- selecting antifungal food combinations
- balancing proteins, vegetables, and healthy fats
- supporting fiber for microbiome diversity
- offering guidance for eating out, ordering in, and social situations
Patients often receive tailored suggestions from our dietician, Joelle Mitchell, to match your lifestyle and stress levels.
6. Identifying & Eliminating Hidden Triggers
To prevent recurrence, Dr. Mitchell looks for deeper issues that may have opened the door to Candida overgrowth, such as:
- repeated antibiotics
- acid blockers / PPIs
- birth control pills or hormonal shifts
- stress-related immune suppression
- food sensitivities
- mold exposure or environmental triggers
- blood sugar fluctuations
- sleep disruption
Candida treatment works best when the root causes are uncovered – not ignored.
7. Long-Term Maintenance & Relapse Prevention
For patients with chronic, recurring Candida (some struggle 5-20+ years), Dr. Mitchell builds a long-term plan that reinforces:
gut strength
immune resilience
microbiome balance
hormone stability
anti-inflammatory nutrition
His goal is not just to eliminate symptoms – but to restore health, confidence, and quality of life.
At Mitchell Medical Group, no two Candida cases are treated the same.
Every protocol is shaped by your immune responses, gut patterns, testing results, and personal history.
Who This Treatment is for
Women and men who:
- suspect Candida is linked to their ongoing symptoms
- have been told “all your tests are normal”
- feel frustrated or dismissed by previous doctors
- struggle with chronic gut issues, fatigue, or brain fog
- experience recurring yeast infections
- prefer an evidence-based but holistic approach
- want a doctor who understands them
If this describes you, you’re not alone – help exists.
Signs & Symptoms of Candida Overgrowth
Why So Many Women & Men Are Misdiagnosed
Because Candida affects multiple organ systems, the symptoms can look unrelated – making the condition easy to dismiss without a specialist who understands the microbiome.
Common Gut Symptoms
- bloating, gas, or abdominal discomfort
- IBS-like symptoms
- constipation or diarrhea
- sugar and carb cravings
- nausea after meals
- difficulty digesting certain foods
Cognitive and Mood Symptoms
- persistent brain fog
- poor concentration
- fatigue, sometimes severe
- irritability or mood changes
Skin, Sinus, and Immune Symptoms
- recurrent sinus infections
- chronic postnasal drip
- skin rashes (especially in folds)
- itchy ear or throat
Vaginal and Genitourinary Symptoms
- recurring yeast infections
- vaginal itching or irritation
- pain or discomfort during intercourse
- bladder discomfort or urgency
Whole-Body Patterns
Many women say the symptoms come and go in flares, often triggered by stress, sugar, antibiotics, or hormonal changes.
This is not “all in your head.” These symptoms align with the microbiome research described in Conquering Candida and verified through Dr. Rao’s work on small intestinal fungal overgrowth (SIFO).
Schedule Your Appointment – Begin Your Candida Healing Journey Today!
Dr. Mitchell has helped thousands of patients reclaim their health and confidence. If you’re ready for answers – and a physician who understands Candida – schedule a consultation at our NYC office or via telehealth.
We have offices in midtown Manhattan, NYC and Rockville Centre on Long Island.