Probiotics & Fungus

Probiotics are live microbial ingredients from food that have a positive effect on health. They are sometimes called "friendly bacteria." Fermented dairy products contain probiotics. These foods may assist in controlling the growth of Candida albicans, which is a normal fungus that lives in healthy humans in colonies. Probiotics are sometimes useful when the colonies become too large, resulting in infections such as vulvovaginal candidiasis.

Benefits

Lactobacillus acidophilus, or L. acidophilus, may inhibit overgrowth of Candida to reduce infections. According to Go Ask Alice, a service of the University of Columbia, this probiotic may therefore prevent yeast infections, which are caused by too much Candida growth in the vagina. The addition of L. acidophilus to the vaginal area helps by creating colonies of L. acidophilus to neutralize effects fo Candida colonies. The L. acidophilus makes lactic acid, which keeps the pH level of the vagina low. A low pH level creates an inhospitable environment for Candida.

Considerations

Evidence of the effectiveness of probiotics is still debateable. A study published in May 2003 in the "Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, & Neonatal Nursing" observed the effects of Lactobacillus on vulvovaginal candidiasis yeast infections, from both taking Lactobacillus orally and using it directly on the vagina. The probiotic was able to colonize the vaginal ecosystem through both methods. This colonization of Lactobacillus may have positive effects against the overgrowth of Candida colonies, but researchers believe that more studies are necessary, as similar studies are few in number and have produced conflicting results.

Limitations

Helpful probiotics are limited to non-pasteurized foods, particularly yogurt. It is therefore important to consume products labeled that they are made with "live cultures." A study published in the "Archives of Family Medicine" in 1996 tested the effects of pasteurized yogurt without L. acidophilus and yogurt with live L. acidophilus. Probiotic colonization in the vagina and rectum was only found in the people eating yogurt with the live L. acidophilus.

Other Treatments

Probiotics from foods or supplements may help with infections, but they should not replace medications. You should consult your doctor if you believe you have an infection, as you may need medication. Other potentially beneficial alternative treatments include the use of tea tree oil and garlic, according to an article published in "Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey" journal in May 2003. Boric acid may help women suffering from recurrent vulvovaginal Candida infections who do not respond to conventional therapies, though vaginal burning is a possible side effect. Do not use douching to treat a yeast infection.