Foods To Control A Candida Diet

Candidiasis, also called yeast infections or simply candida, develops when candida, a yeast-like fungus, grows excessively in your body. Candidiasis is common among women and HIV/AIDS patients, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, and causes bothersome symptoms, such as a creamy discharge in the mouth or vagina, skin rashes and/or cracks around the mouth known as oral thrush. In addition to medical treatment and positive hygiene, healthy foods may help manage candida-related health problems.

Whole Grains

Whole grains are grains that have retained valuable nutrient, fiber and protein content during food processing. As a result, whole grains are low-glycemic, meaning they have a mild impact on your blood sugar levels. According to Liliana Stadler Mitrea, natural health practitioner and author of "Pathology and Nutrition: A Guide for Professionals," low-glycemic foods may effectively reduce candida overgrowth and lead to fewer yeast infections and less severe symptoms. To reduce the glycemic load of your diet, replace enriched breads, pasta, rice and snack foods with whole grains, such as barley, whole wheat, brown rice, wild rice, oats, popcorn and quinoa, most often. When purchasing prepared foods, check food packaging to ensure that whole grains are listed as primary ingredients.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are valuable sources of antioxidants, which help your body fend off infections and diseases. Fruits and vegetables rich in the antioxidant vitamin C, such as red bell peppers, citrus fruits, strawberries, tomatoes and spinach, may help alleviate inflammation associated with candidiasis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Preparing foods with anti-fungal vegetables, such as garlic, may also reduce your symptoms. For maximum antioxidant benefits, incorporate a variety of fresh, colorful fruits and vegetables into your meals and snacks routinely. Additional antioxidant-rich varieties include blueberries, raspberries, cantaloupe, papaya, mangos, kale, mustard greens, broccoli, brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes and winter squash.

Yogurt and Kefir

Yogurt and kefir -- a yogurt-like beverage -- provide valuable nutrients, such as calcium and vitamin D, protein and "friendly" bacteria known as probiotics. Probiotics enhance digestive balance and may help prevent or minimize candida infections, according to Mitrea. Probiotics may prove particularly beneficial while taking antibiotics -- a potential yeast infection trigger. Consume yogurt and/or kefir containing live active cultures, such as lactobacillus acidophilus, regularly for best potential results. Top yogurt with antioxidant-rich berries and flaxseed -- a fiber-rich seed variety rich in omega-3 fatty acids -- for heightened nutritional benefits; omega-3 fats may provide additional anti-inflammatory benefits.