Yeast, or candida, is a micro-organism that exists in many people's bodies in normal amounts, without causing problems. Excessive yeast growth, however, can cause cracks, itching, blisters and discharge in the vagina, mouth, groin, throat or other body areas. According to the Mayo Clinic, three in four women are likely to experience vaginal yeast infections at some point. Yeast infections are also common in people with HIV/AIDS. As part of a healthy, yeast-free diet, certain foods may help prevent or alleviate yeast-related health problems.
Vitamin B-Rich Foods
Vitamin B refers to a group of water-soluble vitamins that support the metabolism, the immune system and other important body functions. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests B vitamins as helpful dietary tools for people with candidiasis--a medical term for yeast infections. B vitamins are present in an assortment of healthy foods, including complex carbohydrates such as yeast-free whole grain breads, oats, pasta and rice; protein-rich foods including meat, fish, milk products, eggs and legumes; and molasses.
Essential Fatty Acids
Essential fatty acids are healthy fats the body requires but does not manufacture; thus, they must be obtained from food. The two types of fatty acids--omega-3 and omega-6--help alleviate inflammation and support cardiovascular health, brain function and gene synthesis. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, essential fatty acids can help reduce instances of yeast infections and inflammation associated with candidiasis. Valuable food sources of omega-3 fatty acids include cold-water fish, such as albacore tuna, wild salmon, sardines, herring and mackerel, ground flax seed, flax seed oil, walnuts, walnut oil, tofu, mustard oil and canola oil. Omega-6 fatty acids are present in safflower oil, sunflower oil, sunflower seeds, pine nuts, corn oil, soybean oil, pecans, Brazil nuts and sesame oil.
Vitamin C-Rich Foods
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin known for its potent antioxidant, or disease-fighting, properties. Vitamin C can also help prevent re-infection in individuals who experience frequent or occasional yeast infections, according to women's health expert Christiane Northrup, M.D.. Valuable sources of vitamin C include red bell peppers, oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, citrus juices, cantaloupe, strawberries, papaya, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, tomatoes, tomato juice, sweet potato and baked potato--with skin.
Probiotics
Probiotics are "good" bacteria that support healthy digestion. They also reduce harmful bacteria that can lead to yeast infections, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Probiotics can be reaped from yogurt with live active cultures, buttermilk, kefir, fermented soy products, sauerkraut, fermented cabbage and in foods and beverages fortified with probiotics. People prone to yeast overgrowth may wish to increase probiotic intake while taking antibiotics, since antibiotics can reduce healthy bacteria and increase risk of yeast infections.
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