Jerry - Candida is a common pathogen that needs to be obliterated. Although there will always be some level of candida detectable, over-proliferation is not good.
There is a test from Great Smokies Labs called a Comprehensive Stool Analysis that checks Candida levels (along with other undesirable things such as parasites ...and very important things such as digestibality and absorption, etc.)
It isn't a hoax. Systemic candida treatment is relatively easy but it takes time and a change of diet during the process. I believe one can go to the Great Smokies web site and read about it. Candida proliferation can indicate an immune system that is functioning at a substandard level.
After my GSL evaluation that was positive for Candida, I followed an herbal program and was retested. No Candida.
Then I found a different method of elimination which is fast, easy and good for maintenance. The product is called Candex and works by dissolving or destroying the yeast cell walls. I believe they have a web site. I use this product as a maintence item - or preventive.
Intestinal Candida colonies thrive on carbohydrates. When the host consumes the carbs, the yeast then grows and produces the typical CO2 gas - this can create alot of digestive and intestinal discomfort. An easy evaluation is to note if after eating a carb-rich meal, one experiences indigestion and gas.....pretty positive for Candida.
The book, Digestive Wellness, by Elizabeth Lipski is just one of many that discusses the yeast problem... a classic is The Yeast Connection by William Crook... (I thinkit is William). That's been known forever and Dr. Crook is a recognized authority.
Anything that compromises the intestinal wall and creates permeability (Leaky Gut Syndrome) needs to be corrected since LGS allows large molecules of undigested protein to get into the blood stream and create allergens.... this leads to other complications such as autoimmune diseases including arthritis, etc.
There is quite a cascade of conditions that can be traced back to Candida if one knows where to look in the first place.
As it relates to afib.... there has been alot of discussion about bloating after meals that puts pressure on the stomach area/vagal stimulation/ and afib.
If you google Candida - you can get lost for weeks reading. Alot of it will relate to HIV conditions since that is opportunistic with suppressed or weakened immune systems.
Jackie