Candidiasis, also called a yeast infection, is caused by overgrowth of candida --- a yeast-like fungus. Candidiasis can develop in the mouth, vagina, stomach, skin or urinary tract and is common among women and people with HIV/AIDS, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. A healthy diet, limited in certain foods and nutrients and inclusive in others, may help prevent or reduce candidiasis outbreaks. For best results, seek guidance from a qualified health care professional.
Function
Diets for candidiasis, also called candida diets, aim to prevent or reduce symptoms, such as vaginal discharge, creamy areas in the mouth, cracks in or around the mouth, skin rashes and itching. Although the diets vary in specific guidelines, most suggest eliminating foods believed to trigger or exacerbate symptoms, and encourage natural, whole foods over processed foods. Ideally, your candida diet should meet your energy, nutrient and wellness needs while providing enjoyment.
Effectiveness
The effectiveness of diets for candidiasis remains controversial. Although advocates of the diets believe that yeast overgrowth is to blame for fatigue, headaches and memory problems that can be resolved through dietary changes, the Mayo Clinic suggests that feeling better stems from eating healthier foods during the diet rather than perceived yeast reduction.
Certain foods encouraged by candida diets may provide benefits. A study published in the "Journal of Dental Research" in February 2007 showed a positive correlation between probiotics --- healthy bacteria found in fermented dairy products and other foods --- and reduced candida overgrowth in elderly people. In the study, 276 participants consumed cheese containing probiotics or cheese without probiotics for six consecutive weeks. The yeast content in participants who consumed probiotics decreased by 32 percent, while those who did not consume probiotics demonstrated increased yeast growth.
Optimum Foods
Candida diets generally encourage a variety of healthy foods, including vegetables, unrefined grains, lean protein and healthy fats. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, probiotics may help restore balance in your digestive system. Valuable sources of probiotics include yogurt with live active cultures, kefir, buttermilk, fermented cabbage and sauerkraut. Vitamin C, vitamin E and the mineral selenium may help reduce inflammation and improve your immune system function. Vitamin C-rich foods include red bell peppers, citrus fruits, raspberries, kiwi, papaya, baked potatoes (with skin), broccoli, spinach and kale. (Since some candida diets suggest avoiding fruit, you may need to rely on vegetable sources of vitamin C.)
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble nutrient present in numerous healthy foods, including wheat germ oil, almonds, safflower oil, sunflower oil, sunflower seeds, peanuts, corn oil, peanut butter and almond butter. For ample amounts of selenium, consume Brazil nuts, tuna, lean beef, cod, turkey breast and/or chicken breast regularly. Since people with yeast infections often lack calcium in their diets, consume calcium-rich foods, such as fortified dairy products, soy products or juices, sardines, salmon and/or tofu regularly.
Foods to Avoid
Candida diets promote avoidance of processed foods, such as potato chips, pretzels, crackers, cookies, pastries and processed meats and cheeses. They also restrict yeast -- which is found in most breads, pie crust, pizza dough, dinner rolls -- and added sugars, such as cane sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup, honey and molasses. Some proponents of the diets believe that dairy products trigger candida overgrowth, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, and thus restrict milk, yogurt, cheeses and other dairy-containing foods. Fresh and dried fruit may or may not be allowed, depending on the diet's specific guidelines.
Suggestions
If particular foods seem to trigger or worsen candidiasis symptoms, you may benefit from limiting or avoiding these foods. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, adding garlic, nuts, oregano, cinnamon, sage and cloves to your foods may also help prevent candida infections. Healthy hygiene habits and medications, when necessary, can also help. Candida diets are not intended as replacements for medical treatment. For this reason, discuss your symptoms and dietary concerns with your doctor before making significant changes.
