Vaginitis, also known as vulvovaginitis or inflammation of your vagina, is caused by infection and may occur in women of all ages. This condition, notes the Cleveland Clinic, may be caused by numerous pathogens, including bacteria, yeast, viruses and sexually transmitted diseases. Chemicals in certain consumer products may also cause vaginitis in some women. Before using diet and nutrition to help treat your vaginitis, review all diet-related topics with your doctor.
Vaginitis
Genital itching and irritation, redness and swelling of your genitalia, abnormal vaginal discharge and a burning sensation when you urinate are among the most common signs and symptoms associated with vaginitis. The National Center for Biotechnology Information states that pathogens thrive in warm and moist environments and in irritated tissue, and that these factors can both cause your condition and extend your recovery time. Conventional treatments for this health problem involve the use of various antimicrobial creams.
A Beneficial Diet
A beneficial diet in treating your vaginitis should include nutrient-dense foods such as almonds, whole grains, tofu and dark leafy green vegetables, states naturopathic physicians Michael Murray and Joseph Pizzorno, co-authors of "Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine." Other beneficial foods in treating this health problem may include yogurt, brown rice, millet and the probiotic acidophilus. Murray and Pizzorno recommend avoiding all refined foods and simple carbohydrates. Consider also avoiding gluten-containing grains and citrus and acidic fruits.
Highlighted Food
Yogurt may be one of the most beneficial foods in treating your vaginitis. According to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," eating plain yogurt can help fight infections, including yeast infections causing your vaginitis, and can soothe inflamed vaginal tissues. Yogurt contains numerous vitamins, such as vitamins B-2, B-5 and B-12, as well as significant amounts of calcium, iodine and phosphorus. Yogurt may also be beneficial in helping you control your weight and improve the function of your immune system.
Warning
Vaginitis is a health condition that should always be treated by a qualified health-care practitioner. Possible health complications associated with vaginitis include skin infections, unrelenting vaginal discomfort and problems associated with the underlying cause of your condition, such as gonorrhea. A health-care professional who has advanced training in clinical nutrition can counsel you on the best foods to take for your condition as well as the risks, benefits and limitations associated with these foods.
References
- Cleveland Clinic: Vaginitis
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Vulvovaginitis
- "Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine"; Michael Murray, N.D., and Joseph Pizzorno, N.D.; 1998
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
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