Candida albicans is an overgrowth of bacteria that is naturally found in the gastrointestinal tract and on the skin. Children and adults can develop candida infections. According to the National Institutes of Health, children may develop thrush, or oral candidiasis, as a side effect of taking oral antibiotics, poor nutrition or from using inhaled steroids as prescribed for asthma. By consuming an antifungal diet, candida infections generally can be reduced and eliminated.
Avoid Baker's Yeast
Antifungal diets are a form of elimination diets that remove any potential sources that will feed the candida infection. Foods made from baker's yeast such as cookies, breads, muffins, pizza and other baked goods are one example. The yeast in these foods can worsen a candida infection. Instead, prepare foods without baker's yeast and use baking soda instead or eggs to leaven baked goods.
Replace Cheese, Mushrooms, Fermented Foods
Avoid giving your child cheese or mushrooms of any kind, as these foods are in contact with mold from the cheese rind or are a form of fungus. Also avoid fermented foods. Instead, prepare pizza using soy or rice-based cheese substitutes. Grilled cheese sandwiches can be made with rice-based cheese and many kids will not notice the difference. While not a common item on every child's diet, fermented foods should also be removed if there is a candida infection. Vinegar, pickles, sauerkraut, kimchee and any other kind of fermented foods are found to activate and irritate a candida infection.
Remove Sugars
Sugar in all its forms, including fruits, fruit juice and fructose, are also to be avoided while fighting a candida infection. The sugars feed the infection. Read food labels as many things are actually sugar: cane juice, maple syrup, honey, molasses and agave. Stevia is the exception. Made from a plant, stevia is often sold as a highly concentrated white powder for use in drinks, over cereal or baking. It is also available as a clear liquid. Experiment with it to see how your child tolerates it in very small amounts.
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