A yeast infection, which is an overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus, most commonly affects the mouth and vagina. Three-quarters of women will experience a vaginal yeast infection at some point, and 90 percent of people with HIV or AIDS develop yeast infections. You are more likely to develop a yeast infection if you are pregnant, if you have reduced immune system function, if you are overweight or if you take birth control pills or antibiotics. Changing your diet may help reduce your risk of developing a yeast infection.
Step 1
Increase the amount of fresh fruits and vegetables that you eat and switch to fat-free or low-fat dairy products. These strategies may help you lose weight if you are overweight. Since being overweight is a risk factor in developing yeast infections, this may reduce your risk.
Step 2
Add yogurt containing live active cultures to your diet. "American Family Physician" cites a 1992 study in which women who consumed 8 oz. of yogurt containing L. acidophilus each day experienced fewer yeast infections than those who did not eat the yogurt.
Step 3
Reduce the amount of sugary food that you eat. Excess sugar in the diet can make you more prone to developing yeast infections, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Step 4
Eat foods that are high in vitamin C. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can reduce inflammation and boost your immune system, reducing your risk of getting a yeast infection. Good dietary sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, orange juice, bell peppers and broccoli.
Step 5
Drink more milk and eat calcium-containing foods. According the University of Maryland Medical Center, many people who experience recurring yeast infections do not get enough calcium in their diets.
Tips and Warnings
- Talk to your doctor about taking acidophilus, vitamin C or calcium supplements. These may help prevent yeast infections, but should not be taken without the advice of your doctor.
- See your doctor if you experience more than four yeast infections in one year, or more than three yeast infections if you are not taking antibiotics. Recurring yeast infections can, in some cases, indicate a serious medical condition, such as diabetes or a weakened immune system.
Things You'll Need
- Fruits and vegetables
- Low-fat dairy products
- Yogurt
- Foods containing vitamin C
