Candida is a yeast-like fungus that can cause infections in the mouth, vagina, stomach, urinary tract and skin. Though these infections -- also called candidiasis, yeast infections or simply "candida," -- can affect most anyone, they are common in women and people with HIV/AIDS, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Symptoms of candidiasis include painful cracks around the mouth, creamy discharge or patches in the mouth or vagina, and rashes. Certain foods may help alleviate candida overgrowth and infections.
Probiotics
Probiotics are healthy bacteria found in certain foods that support digestive health and help prevent infections caused by harmful bacteria. A study published in the "Journal of Dental Research" in February 2007 showed a positive correlation between probiotics and improved yeast-related symptoms in elderly adults -- a population in which oral yeast infections are common. In the study, 276 elderly participants consumed either cheese containing 50 g of probiotics or cheese free of probiotics for 16 weeks. Participants who consumed the probiotic-containing cheese demonstrated a 32 percent reduction of yeast overgrowth and were 75 percent less likely to develop infections than participants who did not eat the probiotic cheese. To reap potentially similar benefits, eat probiotic-rich foods -- such as yogurt with live active cultures, kefir, buttermilk, fermented cheese, soy products or cabbage -- regularly.
Calcium-Rich Foods
Recurrent yeast infections are linked with calcium deficiencies, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. To increase your calcium intake, eat a variety of calcium-rich foods, such as tuna, salmon, sardines, milk, yogurt, sour cream, cheese, pudding, almonds, bok choy, spinach and fortified orange juice, soy milk and cereals. Choose low-fat or non-fat dairy products over whole milk and heavy cream to prevent excessive saturated fat intake. Canned tuna and salmon often contain minuscule bone particles, which add more calcium.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables provide significant amounts of vitamins and minerals, many of which support the body's ability to defend itself from infections and disease. Though fruits and vegetables won't likely cure candidiasis, they may help prevent yeast from becoming infected or reduce the intensity and frequency of symptoms. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends consuming more vitamin C, in particular, which you can accomplish by regularly consuming red and green bell peppers, citrus fruits and juices, berries, kiwi, cantaloupe, tomatoes, leafy greens, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, baked potatoes, squash, sweet potatoes and cabbage.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats the body requires and must reap from dietary sources. Omega-3 fats promote heart health and may help ease inflammation associated with candida. Valuable sources of omega-3 fats include fatty fish such as salmon, albacore tuna, herring, lake trout, flounder, halibut and sardines, ground flaxseed, walnuts, walnut oil, canola oil and fortified foods.
Member Comments