Candidiasis, also known as a candida or yeast infection, can occur in various parts of your body, including your stomach, mouth or vagina. This condition is particularly common among women. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that about 75 percent of women will develop candidiasis at some point in their lives. Before using diet and nutrition to help resolve your candidiasis, schedule an appointment with your family physician to discuss all nutrition-related topics.
Candidiasis
Candidiasis affects about 8 out of every 100,000 Americans, reports the Seattle Biomed website. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of this health problem include cracking at the corners of the mouth, skin rashes, vaginal itching and vaginal discharge that is white and lumpy. Possible causes of candidiasis include obesity, pregnancy, low immune function, bacterial infections and certain medications, such as corticosteroids and antibiotics. Candidiasis is a common health problem among people with HIV/AIDS.
Dietary Strategies
A healthy diet is an important part of a well-rounded candidiasis treatment plan. Certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," states that increasing consumption of vegetables, fish and gluten-free grains -- millet, brown rice -- may be helpful in treating candidiasis. Other beneficial foods may include yogurt, guar gum and psyllium seed. Consider eliminating the following foods or beverages from your diet: refined and simple sugars, milk, alcohol, chocolate, dried fruit, pickles and potatoes.
Helpful Oils
Evening primrose oil and fish oil may be one of the most useful foods for treating your candidiasis. When taken together, these oils, states the University of Maryland Medical Center, provide you with a significant amount of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, which are helpful in reducing inflammation throughout your body. The Center notes that both these oils have traditionally been used in treating candidiasis, although they caution that certain people -- especially those who have bleeding disorders -- should use these oils only if they are under the care of a physician.
Additional Information
Candidiasis is a health condition that is best managed by a licensed healthcare professional. Avoid using diet and nutrition in lieu of other treatment measures suggested by your primary care provider. In most cases, a combination of therapies -- both alternative and conventional -- may produce optimal treatment results. Though nutritional therapy has long been used in treating candidiasis, a larger body of scientific research evidence may be necessary to validate the purported health benefits of dietary changes.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Candidiasis
- Seattle Biomed: Candidiasis
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Candidiasis
