Vaginal yeast infections are caused by Candida albicans -- a fungus that is always present, to some degree, in your vagina. FamilyDoctor.org states that if your vagina becomes less acidic, yeast can grow and cause a vaginal infection. The acidic nature of your vagina may be affected by numerous factors, including pregnancy, diabetes and birth control pills. Dietary supplements may be a helpful adjunct therapy in treating your yeast infection. Always discuss the use of supplements with your doctor before using them to treat your yeast infection.
Vaginal Yeast Infections
Vaginal yeast infections, states the National Center for Biotechnology Information, cause several common signs and symptoms, including unusual vaginal discharge that may be watery or chunky, pain during sexual intercourse, pain when urinating, vulvar redness and swelling and vaginal itching or burning. Recurrent vaginal yeast infections, notes the Center, may be a sign of another health problem. Vaginal yeast infections are not sexually transmitted diseases, although some men may develop a rash on their penis following sex with an infected individual.
Yeast Infection Supplements
Dietary supplements are a time-tested approach to the management of your yeast infections. However, not all supplements traditionally used in treating this condition have been extensively evaluated using rigorous scientific testing methods. Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," notes that the following supplements may be useful in treating your yeast infection: acidophilus, biotin, garlic, B-complex vitamins, aloe vera, barberry, fresh plantain, goldenseal, calendula and tea tree oil.
Featured Supplement
Biotin is a dietary supplement that may frequently be prescribed to help treat your yeast infection. Balch notes that biotin inhibits yeast growth, and that taking 300 mcg of this water-soluble B-vitamin three times per day may effectively treat your condition. According to the Linus Pauling Institute, a biotin deficiency may lead to impaired immune system function and a greater risk of bacterial and fungal infections. Other possible signs and symptoms associated with a biotin deficiency include hair loss and a red rash that manifests on your face and in your genital region.
Disclaimer
Although dietary supplements are a conservative treatment method and are largely safe, you should always clear the use of these natural substances with your family physician before using them to treat your yeast infection. A licensed healthcare provider -- especially one who is trained in clinical nutrition -- can provide you with valuable information about what supplements may be best for you, how best to use these supplements, proper dosage and what side effects may be associated with their use.
References
- FamilyDoctor.org: Vaginal Yeast Infections
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Vaginal Yeast Infection
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- Linus Pauling Institute: Biotin
