In healthy individuals there is a balance between Candida albicans, a fungus present in small amounts in the vagina, mouth, digestive tract and skin, and other microorganisms. Pregnancy, diabetes, obesity and antibiotics, which eliminate protective bacteria, can disturb this balance. This disruption can cause yeast to grow more easily, potentially leading to a yeast infection. However, you can prevent this by making a few simple changes to your diet.
Probiotic Yogurt
Since yeast infections occur when there is too much Candida albicans and not enough protective bacteria, the University of Maryland Medical Center suggests taking daily probiotics. Consuming 1 to 10 billion live organisms of lactobacillus acidophilus per day, or 10 billion colony-forming units of bifidobacterium per day, may help you restore the normal balance of protective bacteria in your body. However, studies reveal mixed findings on the effectiveness of this method, whether taking probiotics in pill or yogurt form.
Citrus Fruit
Citrus fruit, such as oranges, are often a great source of vitamin C. Since you are more likely to get a yeast infection if you have a weakened immune system, consuming 500 to 1,000mg of vitamin C daily can give your immune system the boost it needs to stay healthy.
Milk and Broccoli
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, many people who experience recurrent yeast infections do not get enough calcium in their diet. Sources of calcium include milk and other dairy products such as cheese or yogurt, as well as kale and broccoli.
Garlic and Spices
Garlic and spics such as oregano, cinnamon, sage and cloves are fungicidal, meaning they destroy fungus, including the type responsible for yeast infections, Candida albicans. Adding these spices while cooking can not only improve their taste, but may also help to avoid future yeast infections.
