Many people with HIV/AIDS, predominantly females, experience yeast infections at some point. Oral yeast infections are common among elderly adults and small children. Caused by an overgrowth of the yeastlike fungus candida, these infections cause bothersome symptoms, such as creamy discharge; itching; and rashes in the mouth, vagina, stomach or skin. Acidophilus is a probiotic, or beneficial bacteria form, that guards against candida overgrowth. Foods rich in probiotics and particular nutrients may help manage your symptoms.
Dairy Products
Cultured dairy products, such as yogurt, kefir and aged and fortified cheeses, are top food sources of probiotics. In a study published in the "Journal of Dental Research" in February 2007, 276 elderly adults consumed 50 g of cheese either containing or not containing probiotics for 16 weeks. In analyzing the amount of candida in participants' saliva, researchers found that the probiotic-containing cheese decreased candida content by 32 percent. Candida in participants who did not ingest probiotics increased. For potentially similar benefits, consume yogurt, kefir or cheese that list "live, active" cultures, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus or Bifidobacterium bifidus, regularly.
Fermented Cabbage
Probiotics occur naturally during the fermentation process of foods. Fermented cabbage, also called kimchee, is a nondairy probiotic source. While cooking cabbage rids the vegetable of valuable vitamin C content, according to physician and food scientist Dr. Tom Cowan, salting and fermenting cabbage increases its ability to boost your immune system as healthy bacteria within its leaves flourish. In the book, "Probiotic Foods for Good Health," by Beatrice Trum Hunter, Cowan also describes fermented cabbage as a valuable digestive aid. Although research is needed to determine the yeast infection benefits of fermented cabbage, it may improve bacterial balance and boost your body's ability to fend off yeast-related infections.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are prime sources of antioxidants, such as vitamin C, which promote immune function. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends increasing your vitamin C intake for reduced inflammation associated with candida infections, and eating garlic for its antifungal properties. Fruits and vegetables particularly rich in vitamin C include berries, kiwi, tomatoes, cantaloupe, cabbage, broccoli, spinach, Brussels sprouts, baked potatoes and winter squash. Season cooked vegetables with fresh, chopped or minced garlic for antioxidant and fungus-reducing benefits.
Cold-Water Fish
Cold-water fish, such as salmon, albacore tuna, herring, lake trout, halibut, flounder and sardines, are prime suppliers of omega-3 fatty acids -- essential fats that may reduce inflammation. Replacing animal fat sources, such as red meat, butter and whole milk with essential fatty acids may help minimize candida infection symptoms, according to the UMMC. For heightened benefits, use healthy cooking methods, such as baking, broiling, poaching or grilling fish atop olive or canola oil. Canola oil provides omega-3 fatty acids as well.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Candidiasis
- "Journal of Dental Research"; Probiotics Reduce the Prevalence of Oral Candida in the Elderly---a Randomized Controlled Trial; K. Hatakka et al.; Feb. 2007
- "Probiotic Foods for Good Health"; Beatrice Trum Hunter; 2008
