A yeast- or candida-free diet is a strict dietary regimen designed to eliminate yeast-containing foods. Some of these diets also suggest eliminating yeast-producing foods and recommend detoxification, cleansing processes and supplements. But before you rush into one of these diets, understand that little scientific proof indicates they actually reduce yeast growth. On the other hand, not much overall research has been done to support or deny yeast-free benefits either.
Candidiasis
Candidiasis, or yeast infection, is more common in women than men, especially after menopause, but a yeast infection does not just affect women, nor does it only manifest symptoms in a woman's reproductive system. Any area that is moist can have a yeast overgrowth. Typically, they occur in the genitals, underarm area, nail beds, mouth, beneath the breasts and in teeth. Additionally, a systemic yeast infection affects the entire body and is spread through the bloodstream. This type of infection is quite serious and possibly life-threatening. Often, a lowered immune system is the cause. Yeast-free diets are not condoned by medical professionals for these conditions.
Yeast Syndrome
Most who advocate a yeast-free diet do so to alleviate what they call "yeast syndrome." This supposed condition can be characterized by tiredness, repeated infections and proliferation of candida albicans, a specific type of yeast growth, according to the Mayo Clinic. It might occur after antibiotic use. According to Dr. Rebecca Gurney, an alternative medicine practitioner, conventional medicine does not acknowledge a yeast syndrome, hypersensitivity to yeast or any related conditions. Yet, alternative medicine practitioners use stool samples and a collection of symptoms to make a diagnosis.
Yeast-Free Foods
Dark green leafy vegetables are yeast free. So are beans, eggs, natural nuts without excessive processing, rice, spelt pasta, beans, shellfish, chicken and beef. You can have unrefined vegetable oils. Some fruits are allowed as long as they are fresh, unspoiled and eaten in moderation. Apples, avocado, coconut and lemon are some examples.
Avoid Simple Sugars
To be yeast-free, you must avoid all cakes, cookies, pastries, doughnuts and any simple sugars. Even fruits high in sugar, such as bananas, watermelon and cantaloupe, are out. Your body will likely crave these simple sugars, especially at the beginning of a yeast-free diet regimen. Expect to go through a detoxification in which you might feel worse before feeling better.
Other Foods to Avoid
Avoiding foods that produce yeast in the body is a part of yeast-free diets. Along with simple sugars, you must also eliminate breads, pastas and other grains. You can enjoy rice and spelt flours. Because yeast is produced through milk sugars, your yeast-free diet might also need to avoid milk, cheese, yogurt and sour cream. Watch that you stay away from dried, preserved fruits too. Also, be careful what you drink. Avoid anything fermented, such as wine and black teas. Alcohol in general is a no-no. Even natural B-vitamins are made from yeast, so synthetic varieties might be a better choice.
Yeast-Free Diet
A yeast-free diet is an all-natural diet that combines foods not containing yeast. It also means avoiding processed foods and condiments or salad dressings that you have not made yourself. You will give up alcohol, sugar and milk products to stick to it. The diet can last up to six weeks for maximum benefit. This eating regimen is reported to help with yeast overgrowth symptoms and help people lose weight.
