Candidiasis, commonly referred to as a yeast infection, is an infection caused by Candida albicans, a yeast-like fungus that lives in your body. It commonly appears as oral thrush and vaginal yeast infection; however, Candida albicans can also infect your skin, urinary tract and stomach. Candidiasis is most common among children, the elderly and people with compromised immune systems, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Diet cannot cure candidiasis; however, it may help control the spread of Candida albicans.
Talk to your physician if you plan to change your diet to address candidiasis.
Limit Refined Flour
Refined flour, also known as white flour, is a staple of the typical American diet. It is found in pastries, white bread, pasta, cookies, cakes, flour tortillas, hamburger buns and bagels. The processing required to produce white flour converts grains into simple carbohydrates, which are short-chain sugars that your body quickly breaks down and transfers to your bloodstream. These carbohydrates provide fuel for Candida albicans, and may encourage the spread of this fungus. This may increase your risk of candidiasis, according to Columbia University. Limit or eliminate white flour products, and opt instead for whole-grain breads and pastas.
Essential Fatty Acids
A balance of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential fatty acids derived from food sources, may help reduce tissue inflammation associated with candidiasis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Omega-3 fatty acids are primarily found in the oils of fish such as tuna, mackerel, herring and salmon, although they are also found in walnuts and flax seeds. Nuts and seeds such as pumpkin seeds, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds and pecans are rich sources of omega-6 fatty acids.
Probiotic-Rich Foods
Probiotics are friendly bacteria that may help control the growth of Candida albicans in your body, and may help prevent or reduce the symptoms of candidiasis, according to Columbia University. Yogurt and sauerkraut are abundant sources of natural probiotics. Probiotics are also found in kombucha, a mushroom-like colony of yeast and bacteria that is fermented and mixed with green or black tea.
Garlic
Adding fresh garlic to your diet may help control Candida albicans growth, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Fresh garlic contains a chemical compound called allicin, which may offer anti-fungal benefits. Allicin is activated when you cut or crush garlic cloves. However, it is an unstable chemical compound that may be destroyed by processing -- garlic supplements may not offer the same anti-fungal benefits. Use fresh garlic cloves to stir-fry dishes, curries, soups, wraps and stews.
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