Candida Prevention

Candida Prevention

Good hygiene is considered the all-around best way to prevent most yeast infections. However certain yeast fungi, e.g. Candida albicans, are tolerated by our metabolism and may even serve a useful function. Useful, that is, until intestinal imbalance throws off normal immune system balance and weakens the body’s natural yeast prevention ability. This leads to an upset digestive system and an all out yeast infection. Besides good hygiene, a balanced digestive system helps yeast prevention by keeping yeast fungi in check.  The yeast fungi can survive but not thrive. The use of antibiotics or a diet that includes too much sugary foods can unbalance this yeast prevention mechanism and create conditions that contribute to excess yeast growth.

 

Control your carbohydrates

Candida albicans derive nourishment from the carbohydrates in the food we eat. If we can control our carbohydrate intake, then Candida cannot thrive in our body.  This does not mean we must starve ourselves to control the yeast. The best results can be obtained by planning meals that are low in dietary sugars or simple carbohydrates. Our goal is to  limit the amount of simple carbohydrates enough to ensure yeast prevention without starving ourselves in the process. If we substitute complex carbohydrates that makes it more difficult for the yeast population to grow out of control.

Complex carbohydrates are best consumed in the form of fresh vegetables. Avoid bread made from processed flour or bleached white rice. The starch they contain converts into sugar in the intestines. If you must have bread, go for the whole grain or mixed whole grain variety since they contain more complex carbs.  Foods that contain sugar and yeast, such as cookies and cakes, must be avoided because these components disturb your metabolism and weaken the natural defense your body has against yeast.

  • Mushrooms
  • molds
  • vinegar
  • wine
  • dry roasted nuts
  • canned soups
  • white flour
  • bacon
  • ham

All these can attract and sustain small amounts of yeast. If your immune system has already been weakened by illness or medications, this small amount of yeast can grow into a major infection.

Certain foods not only discourage yeast growth but strengthen our immune system and kill off unwanted yeast fungi.  Garlic is one of these and is readily available at most grocery stores and from food supplement distributors.

These yeast prevention techniques not only work, but do so in a way that does not disturb our immune system or cause eating disorders. The good bacteria, such as lactobacillus, helps prevent the undesirable fungi from gaining a foothold in our body. The helpful bacteria are found in yogurt or similar probiotic foods. They are also available at most grocery stores.

If you suffer from a chronic condition that affects your immune system such as Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, or HIV, yeast infections may be recurring, and more difficult to treat. However, some simple yeast prevention steps can help you avoid re-infection. Practice oral hygiene: brush teeth daily, gargle with an antiseptic mouthwash and floss after every meal. Include vitamins A, C, E, selenium, zinc, iron, glutamine in your diet.. First though, be sure to discuss any planned food supplement therapy with your pharmacist or doctor to ensure there is no conflict with your prescribed medications.