A yeast infection, or candidiasis, may cause inflammation and discomfort to the skin or membranes due to a fungal infection. Redness and itching may occur in the mouth -- known as thrush -- gastrointestinal tract, urinary bladder or the genital area. Diet may help improve or prevent the infection. The Blood Type Diet includes foods based on your blood type and has been used for yeast infections, but the controversial diet has both critics and proponents. Consult your doctor about dietary considerations for yeast infections.
Symptoms and Treatment
Yeast infections commonly cause vaginal irritation, called vaginitis, but may also affect the male genitals. The infection may spread through oral or genital contact. Symptoms may involve itching, burning, soreness and white discharges in the vagina or itching and burning or sores on the penis. Symptoms of thrush include white patches around the mouth. An overgrowth of yeast may overpower your body's immune system and cause infections. Treatment with antibiotics kills bacteria causing the infection and may relieve other symptoms associated with yeast infections, including headaches, indigestion and constipation.
Yeast Foods
Along with medication, avoiding certain foods may limit the buildup of yeast in your body that leads to overgrowth. These foods include items with yeast or molds added, such as yeast-raised breads, alcohol, vinegar, mushrooms and dried fruit, which may contain molds because of the drying process. A Blood Type Diet that includes yeast-free foods may work effectively to enhance the immune system to combat yeast infections, according to Integrated OBGYN, a clinic for obstetrics, gynecology and infertility in Parker, Colorado.
Diet Types
The Blood Type Diet was developed by naturopath Dr. Peter J. D'Adamo and popularized in his 1996 book, "Eat Right for Your Type." Proponents theorize that certain foods contain proteins, called lectins, which are incompatible with certain blood types. Eating the right foods for your blood type restores your body's natural rhythm. A type-O diet consists of meat, fish, vegetables and fruit. Type-A diets have a vegetarian foundation. Meat, dairy, grains, beans, legumes, vegetables and fruit work for the type-B diet. The type-AB diet includes meat, fish, dairy, tofu, beans, grains, vegetables and fruits. Opponents claim blood type has nothing to do with diet. Followers can choose foods from a list and may sometimes choose poorly for their particular health concerns.
Antibodies
Yeast infections may depend on your body's antibodies in saliva or vaginal fluid, according to Dr. D'Adamo on the "Eat Right for Your Type" website. Some people may have glands or cells that do not secrete fluids properly, leading to a low level of antibodies and an increased the risk for yeast infections. Understanding your "secretor status" through a medical examination and adjusting your diet accordingly may help improve your condition if you have recurrent yeast infections. Your doctor can provide you with medical treatment and advise you on a proper diet for your particular condition.
