Millions of bacteria live in your digestive system, and Candida is just one type of yeast-like fungus. Candida albicans poses little threat, unless it's allowed to populate too quickly; in which case it can overwhelm beneficial bacteria and interfere with digestion as well as cause other health problems. A Candida overgrowth is responsible for all types of yeast infections including vaginitis, which will affect 75 percent of women at some point, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Candida and Sugar
To cleanse your digestive system of a Candida overgrowth you need to kill the existing bacteria and then repopulate your digestive system with beneficial bacteria to prevent a future overgrowth. Starve the Candida by eliminating sugar from your diet. Unfortunately this includes natural sugars such as fructose and lactose, as well as added sugars and foods that your body can quickly convert to sugar, such as starchy vegetables, refined carbohydrates and alcohol. Read ingredient labels carefully and avoid any product containing an ingredient ending in -ose such as dextrose, malatose, sucrose or galactose, all names for sugar.
Probiotics and Anti-Fungals
Beneficial digestive bacteria, also known as probiotics can be taken as supplements or are found in certain foods. Foods that contain live and active cultures, such as kefir, yogurt and fermented vegetables such as sauerkraut naturally contain good bacteria that help keep the Candida from repopulating. Other foods have natural anti-fungals, especially coconut oil, which contains lauric and caprylic acids -- two powerful agents that will fight Candida. Other anti-fungal foods include garlic, onions and ginger.
Other Foods to Eat
The majority of your diet should come from non-starchy vegetables, along with lean proteins and healthy fats. Coconut and olive oils are good fat choices, as olive oil contains oleuropein, another anti-fungal. Eggs and all types of animal protein including poultry, beef, seafood and fish are acceptable, but try to buy meats without added antibiotics. Plant-based protein such as legumes should be avoided for the first couple of weeks on a Candida fighting diet, but may be added back into your diet in moderation.
Other Foods to Avoid
Avoid any food that contains yeast or mold. Often foods such as peanuts, pistachios and cashew nuts, as well as coffee beans may have some mold contamination. All vinegars, with the exception of raw apple cider vinegar, should be avoided. Look for vinegars in condiments such as ketchup, salad dressings, mustards and barbecue sauces. Do not use egg, margarine or butter substitutes, although real eggs and butter are fine. When eating fermented dairy products such as yogurt, look for the lowest possible sugar content.
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