Thrush is a condition caused by the Candida albicans fungus, which causes infection in the inner lining of your mouth. This condition causes sores on your tongue, the inside of the mouth, gums, tonsils and throat. Diet cannot cure thrush; however, it may control the growth of Candida albicans and speed healing. Dietary therapy should not replace medical attention for thrush. Consult your doctor for advice.
Vitamin C-Rich Foods
Vitamin C may help reduce inflammation of mucous linings, alleviating mouth pain associated with thrush. This vitamin may also boost immune system function by stimulating the function of interferon and increasing white blood cell production, according to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Enhanced immune system function may help control the spread of Candida albicans. Pomegranates, broccoli, spinach, limes, oranges, kiwi fruit and papayas are abundant sources of natural vitamin C.
Garlic
Adding fresh garlic to your diet may help speed the healing of thrush and prevent recurring outbreaks. Garlic contains a chemical compound called allicin, which may offer fungicidal properties, according to Balch. This chemical is activated when you chop, dice or crush fresh garlic cloves. Include fresh garlic in pasta sauces, curries, Asian stir fry dishes, soups and stews. Check with your doctor before adding garlic to your diet to treat thrush, becaise it may reduce your body's ability to clot blood.
Clove
Add fresh or dried clove to curries, vegetable dishes, Indian soups and stir fry dishes. Clove is widely known for its strong taste and aroma in cuisine; however, it also has a long history of medicinal uses. It contains eugenol, a chemical compound that may help destroy fungi, including Candida albicans, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The New Healing Herbs." Talk to your physician if you plan to consume clove to treat thrush. It may cause stomach discomfort and skin rashes.
Flax Seeds
Flax seeds are rich sources of dietary fiber; however, they also provide essential fatty acids in your diet. Essential fatty acids may help reduce inflammation caused by thrush, according to Balch. They may also help prevent Candida albicans from attacking and damaging mucous membranes. Add ground flax seeds to smoothies, casseroles, steamed vegetables and oatmeal, or substitute flax oil if you do not like the texture of flax seeds.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Oral Thrush
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C., et al.; 2010
- "The New Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 2010
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