Are you prone to yeast or perhaps you know someone who is? Well, apart from the correct hygienic routine, the right dietary adjustments are key to preventing infections and maintaining the proper PH balance for the overall wellbeing of your vagina.

Awareness

The body hosts both good and bad bacteria so it is important to create an environment which doesn’t encourage the reproduction of yeast and therefore allows the probiotics (body-friendly bacteria) to flourish and keep the microorganisms that cause vaginal infection at bay. Apart from using a product like FloraPlus by Multigyn which contains the necessary prebiotics to maintain a healthy vaginal flora by stimulating the individual’s friendly bacteria, you can also consider the following  food recommendations to help in prevention as well as part of your cure regimen:

General food guidelines

–          It is important to avoid the yeast or dampness-creating foods which tend to be cold in temperature, too sweet or salty, mucus-producing, and stale or rancid.

–           Yeast thrives on yeasted breads, alcoholic beverages and pretty much any food in excessive amounts.

–          Various sources suggest that it is imperative to avoid all kinds of sugars and other carbohydrates in order to starve the yeast and prevent it from multiplying. However, certain grains like millet, rye, oats, barley and quinoa are rich in digestive enzymes and may be a useful remedy for yeast overgrowth.  Furthermore, berries, pomegranates, lemons and limes may be tolerated in moderation.

–          Generally, animal protein should be avoided and replaced with legumes and grains.

–          Acidophilus is definitely one of the best sources of probiotics and is almost always mentioned in any yeast health related write up – it may be found in Yogurt, milk and other dairy products enriched with live acidophilus cultures. Chlorophyll-rich foods, such as deep green vegetables also promote acidophilus growth and discourage yeast reproduction.

–          Garlic has exceptional anti-viral/fungal properties

–          Kelp and other seaweeds are also exceptional in the treatment of yeast as they contain iodine-charged free radicals which deactivate yeasts.

The above is by no means an exhaustive list and you should always remember that everyone is unique and therefore unique in their respective requirements.  Speak to your doctor or naturopath / homeopath for further guidance.

Remember ladies, balance is key!

References:

Healing with Whole Foods, Asian Traditions and Modern Nutrition, Paul Pitchford

http://www.rickiheller.com/candida-faq-2/

“The Female Body: An Owner’s Manual,” recommends eating a cup of yogurt a day for optimal vaginal health, Peggy Morgan

http://www.thecandidadiet.com/foodstoavoid.htm