Candida is a fungus that grows naturally in your body. When candida grows excessively, it can trigger infections known as candidiasis, or yeast infections. Candidiasis is common, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, affecting most women and patients with HIV/AIDS at some point. In addition to medications, proper hygiene and treating any underlying condition, a healthy diet, inclusive of certain foods and nutrients, may help prevent or reduce your symptoms.
Probiotics
Probiotics are healthy bacteria found in certain foods that promote digestive wellness and help prevent infections caused by harmful bacteria. According to research published in the "Brazilian Journal of Microbiology" in 2009, probiotics may help prevent or reduce candida overgrowth in your body. In the study, saliva samples from healthy individuals were collected and analyzed. Participants who had candida in their saliva -- a common place for yeast-related infections -- were given probiotics for 20 days. At the study's end, researchers found significant reductions in candida prevalence and concluded that probiotics support immune system strength and may help treat candida-related health problems. To reap potentially similar benefits, incorporate probiotic-rich foods and beverages, such as yogurt with live active cultures, kefir and fermented cabbage and soy products, regularly. Probiotics may also help prevent yeast infections triggered by antibiotics.
Nuts and Fatty Fish
Nuts and fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, halibut, lake trout, sardines, mackerel and herring, provide essential fatty acids -- healthy fats associated with positive heart health and reduced inflammation. In addition to soothing inflammation caused by candida infections, essential fatty acids found in fish and nuts provide anti-fungal, or fungus-eliminating, properties, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Fatty fish also provide nutritious alternatives to saturated fat sources, such as red meat and whole milk, which may increase inflammation. For best results, incorporate a variety of nuts, such as walnuts, almonds, pistachios, peanuts and Brazil nuts, and/or fatty fish into your diet regularly. Since Americans' diets tend to lack omega-3 fatty acids, be sure to consume fatty fish, walnuts and/or walnut oil regularly.
Whole Grains
Whole grains provide rich amounts of fiber and nutrients, including zinc, iron and B vitamins -- nutrients the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends for reduced candida symptoms. Whole grains also have a mild impact on your blood sugar levels, another attribute that may help prevent or alleviate candida overgrowth and infections. Replace enriched carbohydrate sources, such as white bread, sugary sweets and salty snack foods, with whole grains frequently for maximum benefits. Examples of nutritious whole grain foods include 100-percent whole grain breads and cereals, whole wheat pasta, barley soup, long-grain brown rice, wild rice, air-popped popcorn and old fashioned oatmeal.
Member Comments