Candida albicans are a yeast-like fungus that occur naturally in the body. Although modest amounts are typically harmless, Candida overgrowth can cause infections in your intestines, stomach, mouth, skin or vagina. These infections, also called yeast infections or candidiasis, are common among women and people with HIV/AIDS, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC. However, they may affect anyone. In addition to medical treatments, when necessary, a nutritious diet may help minimize your symptoms.
Garlic
Garlic has been used as a spice, food and herbal remedy for centuries. According to a study published in the "Indian Journal of Clinical Biochemistry" in 2010, increasing your garlic intake may help manage intestinal candidiasis. In the study, diabetic rats with and without Candida were given garlic extract. After one month, researchers found that the rats fed garlic extract had substantially less Candida than rats that were not. Humans may reap similar benefits. Try adding fresh, chopped, diced or dried garlic to pasta sauce, soups, casseroles and other dishes. The insides of baked, softened garlic cloves can also be used as a heart-healthy alternative to butter.
Yogurt
Yogurt provides valuable amounts of protein, micronutrients, such as calcium, and probiotics. Probiotics are beneficial, or "friendly," bacteria that may help restore bacterial balance in your digestive tract, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, and help reduce the effects of illnesses caused by harmful bacteria. For best potential results, routinely consume yogurt containing "live active cultures," such as Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium.
Soy Products
Soy is a protein-rich legume variety used in a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Although additional research is needed, according to the UMMC, some health care practitioners believe that diets rich in certain foods, such as milk and aged cheeses, contribute to Candida overgrowth. Soy-based milk, which is typically fortified with calcium, and cheeses provide nutritious alternatives. Other healthy soy-based dishes include grilled, steamed or baked tofu, edamame, and grilled soybean burgers.
Colorful Fruits and Vegetables
The nutrients that give fruits and vegetables their color also provide antioxidant benefits, meaning they help keep your immune system strong. A strong-functioning immune system can help keep your Candida levels in check, according to the UMMC. The antioxidant vitamin C may help reduce inflammation associated with Candida infections. Fruits and vegetables particularly high in vitamin C and other antioxidants include berries, citrus fruits, papaya, kiwi, cantaloupe, tomatoes, leafy greens, Brussels sprouts, bell peppers, broccoli and winter squash.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Candidiasis
- "Indian Journal of Clinical Biochemistry"; Effects of Garlic Extract Treatment in Normal and Streptozotocin Diabetic Rats Infected with Candida Albicans M. Bokaeian; et al.; 2010
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: An Introduction to Probiotics
Member Comments