Most people think of a yeast infection only affecting one area of the body. But yeast can overwhelm the gut and in turn affect metabolism and energy production, says Sciencedirect.com. This may lead to increased body fat and the distribution of fat in the body.

Yeast infections are caused by the growth of a fungus on the body. This fungus is known as Candida, and therefore yeast infections are known as Candidiasis. While yeast normally lives on your body, your immune system keeps it from becoming dangerous.

Yeast infections are caused by a growth of bacteria and the fungus candida, says MayoClinic.com. Although the body uses bacteria for many functions, a yeast infection happens when natural bacterial growth is thrown out of balance.

Yeast, or candida, is a ubiquitous fungus that is part of your normal flora. However, it can cause opportunistic infections if you have reduced immunity. The infection can affect any part of the body, and the symptoms may be mild or life-threatening.

Candida albicans is yeast that grows naturally in a person’s digestive tract and in a woman’s vagina. Normally, the body keeps the amount of yeast at a minimal level, but conditions such as poor hygiene, antibiotic use and a weakened immune system may cause an overgrowth of candida.