Foods To Avoid When You Have A Candida Infection

Candida albicans, or simply candida, is a yeast-like fungus that causes infections called candidiasis in the vagina, skin, mouth, stomach and urinary tract. Candidiasis is characterized by creamy white discharges, rashes, blisters and itching in areas of infection. Candidiasis may occur from an overgrowth of the organism caused by a weakened immune system, antibiotics, corticosteroids, birth control pills and diabetes. If you have candidiasis, avoid certain foods that may stimulate growth of infection.

Sugar

Foods with sugar may stimulate growth of candida infections. Yeast ferments sugar into alcohol, causing low blood sugar levels and more intense cravings for sugar. The University of Maryland Medical Center says reducing sugar in your the diet may help to prevent yeast infections. Dietary sugar comes from fruits, processed foods with added sugar, honey and maple syrup and carbohydrates. Avoid eating fruits, cereals and grains, such as granola, wheat, rice, corn, rye, amaranth, buckwheat, barley, pasta, breads, tortilla, cookies, cakes and processed foods with added sugars or sweeteners. Some processed foods to avoid include ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, horseradish, soy sauce, relish and salad dressings. Research by Miriam Bocarsly published in "Pharmacology, Biochemistry and Behavior" in 2010 reports that high-fructose corn syrup accounts for as much as 40 percent of sweeteners used in the U.S. and that excessive consumption of this sweetener may increase the incidence of obesity, a metabolic condition associated with Type 2 diabetes. The American Academy of Family Physicians says that diabetics are susceptible to candidiasis, in part because of high blood sugar levels.

Dairy

High amounts of milk and dairy products may contribute to candidiasis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Pasteurized milk and dairy products, such as yogurt and kefir, contain unfermented sugar that feed the candida organisms. Pasteurization may reduce the amount of enzymes naturally present in milk and dairy products. Furthermore, some people lack sufficient amount of enzymes to digest the milk proteins and sugars, enabling growth of candida throughout the gastrointestinal tract.

Yeast Containing Foods

The University of Maryland Medical Center says that you should avoid foods with high concentrations of yeast, such as peanuts and alcohol. Nuts and peanuts that are cracked open and uneaten may develop mold and stimulate candida growth. Candida may feed on mushrooms. Alcohol containing foods, such as vinegar, and beverages, such as wine and beer, may also stimulate growth of candida infections. Talk with your doctor or dietitian more about the foods you may eat and should avoid if you have a candida yeast infection.