The practice involving saliva assessment to determine the presence of excessive Candida yeast in the body lacks scientific validation. This method, often promoted online and in alternative health circles, suggests that observing the appearance and behavior of saliva in a glass of water can indicate a Candida overgrowth. Proponents believe sinking strands or cloudy saliva suggest a systemic yeast infection, requiring treatment.
The popularity of this self-diagnostic approach stems from the perceived difficulty in obtaining accurate Candida diagnoses through conventional medical testing. Individuals experiencing symptoms like fatigue, digestive issues, and brain fog, which are sometimes attributed to Candida, may find this at-home test appealing. However, variations in saliva consistency and appearance are commonly influenced by factors such as hydration levels, oral hygiene, and the presence of mucus, rendering the test unreliable as a diagnostic tool.