Yeast infections are a problem for many people. They are most often caused by candida yeasts, especially candida albicans. If you think you may have a yeast infection, the first thing you should do is talk to your doctor. However, there are several foods or dietary changes that may also help. This article lists 3 diet tips that can be effective against candida.
Coconut Oil For Candida Treatment-
Candida yeasts are microscopic fungi found around the skin, mouth or gut. They are usually harmless, but may cause infections when your body’s defenses are weakened. Plants have their own defenses against yeasts and other fungi, and some produce compounds that are toxic to fungi.
A good example is lauric acid, a saturated fatty acid widely studied for its antimicrobial and antifungal effects. Coconut oil is almost 50% lauric acid. This makes it one of the richest dietary sources of lauric acid, which is otherwise rarely found in high amounts in food.
Probiotics For Candida Treatment-
Several factors may make some people more prone to Candida infections, including diabetes and a weakened or suppressed immune system. Antibiotics may also increase risk, as strong dosages sometimes kill a portion of the beneficial bacteria in the gut.
These bacteria are a part of the body’s natural defenses against Candida yeasts. They protect against infections by competing with them for space and nutrients. Consuming probiotics may help restore these populations of beneficial bacteria.
Probiotics are live bacteria often found in fermented foods, such as yogurt with active cultures. They can also be taken in supplements. Studies suggest that probiotics may be a useful preventive or complementary treatment against Candida infections.
Garlic For Candida Treatment-
Garlic is another good example of a healthy plant food with strong antifungal properties. This is partly due to allicin, an antifungal substance that forms when fresh garlic is crushed or damaged.
When given to mice in high amounts, allicin seems to fight Candida yeasts, but is slightly less effective than the antifungal drug fluconazole. Test tube experiments also indicate that garlic extract may reduce yeasts’ ability to attach to the cells lining the mouth.
However, keep in mind that garlic provides only tiny amounts of allicin, whereas most studies have used high amounts of isolated allicin. One 14-day study in women found that taking garlic supplements in capsules had no effects on vaginal yeast infections.
Overall, more clinical trials are needed to confirm whether eating garlic has any treatment value in humans. Nevertheless, using garlic to spice up your food is safe and healthy. It might also work well alongside conventional Candida treatments.