A yeast infection is a troublesome and potentially painful affliction that can occur intestinally, vaginally or orally. Typically caused by the yeast species Candida albicans, vaginal yeast infections are common, occurring in 75 percent of the female population at least once in their lives, according to the National Women's Health Information Center. If you experience repeated yeast infections, certain supplements may help to prevent the occurrence.
Acidophilus
Lactobacillus acidophilus is the most common available probiotic. Friendly bacteria are naturally produced in the intestinal tract and vagina; these bacteria help to combat the proliferation of unfriendly bacteria and fungi, such as yeast, by breaking down food to produce lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide, two substances that will kill fungi. If you have low levels of friendly bacteria in your gut and vagina, you are prone to yeast infections. To prevent yeast infections, supplement with probiotics -- acidophilus in particular -- to help the body naturally stave off yeast overgrowth.
Garlic
Garlic contains organosulfur compounds that give garlic its characteristic taste and odor; they also give garlic its medicinal property. Ajoene is an organosulfur compound in garlic that combats yeast overgrowth. Therefore, to prevent yeast infections, shop for a garlic supplement and select one with ajoene content, opposed to allicin, another organosulfur compound found in garlic. Ajoene destroys the outer cellular structure of yeast cells and degrades cellular proteins, thus inactivating the yeast cells and ceasing yeast growth.
Caprylic Acid
Caprylic acid supplements are typically derived from coconut oil. Caprylic acid is a saturated fatty acid that breaks down the cellular membrane of yeast cells, deactivating the organelles within the cell, thus causing cellular death. Caprylic acid is usually taken with psyllium husks. The two work in tandem: The caprylic acid destroys the yeast and the psyllium husks act as a scrub brush, cleansing the intestinal walls. Caprylic acid is an effective way to prevent yeast growth and it is known to cause pronounced "die-off" reactions if high concentrations of yeast are present. This type of reaction is a period of time when the dead yeast cells cause increased fatigue and flu-like symptoms.
Oregano
Oregano is a popular herb added to pasta sauce or salads. Oregano, however, is not just a flavorful herb; its oil also contains medicinal properties that combat yeast growth. Available as an extract, oregano oil is a pungent supplement taken with water or as a capsule. Carvacrol, an oil found in oregano, is the active component of oregano that kills yeast cells. Take oregano oil to prevent yeast infections in addition to the common cold and indigestion. Look for an oregano extract that contains at least 55 to 65 percent carvacrol, according to the NYU Langone Medical Center.
