Candidiasis is a condition caused by Candida albicans, a parasitic fungus that lives in your throat, urinary tract and intestines, according to Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch, authors of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." It can cause a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, headaches, memory problems, diarrhea, heartburn and joint pain. Avoiding certain foods may help prevent the Candida albicans fungus from spreading, allowing your body to naturally cleanse itself.
Check with your physician before changing your diet to combat candidiasis.
Alcohol
Consuming alcohol may provide an ideal environment for the Candida albicans fungus to multiply, according to the Every Diet website. Your body quickly converts alcohol into sugar, which is distributed in your bloodstream. Candida thrives on sugars, and can quickly spread throughout your body. Alcohol also suppresses your immune system, preventing white blood cells from attacking and destroying Candida albicans cells.
Fruits
Avoid consuming fruits to help your body cleanse itself of candida. Fruits such as apples, oranges, pears, papaya, mangoes and nectarines are high in fructose, which provides a sugary environment that feeds the Candida albicans fungus, according to the Balches. Acidic fruits such as oranges, tomatoes, limes and pineapples may be particularly dangerous if you have candidiasis.
Yeast-Containing Foods
Foods that contain yeast can feed the Candida albicans fungus, allowing it to multiply and travel through your bloodstream, according to the Every Diet website. These foods include breads, cakes, muffins, bagels, pies and crackers. Fermented foods, which naturally contain yeast, may also facilitate the spread of candida. These foods include miso, tempeh, soy sauce and natto, which are made from fermented soybeans.
Other Foods
Numerous other foods may support the spread of candida. These include aged cheeses, pork products, honey, chocolate, peanuts, mushrooms, alfalfa sprouts, grains, potatoes and pickles, according to the Balches.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 1997
- Every Diet: Candida Diet
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