What foods destroy yeast

Foods to Eat to Get Rid of Yeast in the Body

The yeast-like fungus known as candida occurs in everyone's body. While modest amounts don't cause problems, overgrowth can lead to infections called candidiasis in the vagina, mouth, skin or digestive system. About 75 percent of women will experience at least one vaginal yeast infection, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, and most people with HIV/AIDS will develop some form of candidiasis 12. Along with any necessary medical treatment, particular foods may help prevent or minimize your symptoms.

Is This an Emergency?

If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.

Yogurt and Kefir for Probiotics

While research is limited, numerous clinical trials show that probiotics can help improve bacterial balance in the body, according to a "Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy" report published in 2006, lowering the risk of candida overgrowth and yeast infections. Probiotics may be particularly useful if you experience more than three vaginal yeast infections per year 3.

Fish and Flaxseeds for Omega-3s

Foods to Heal Thrush

The anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 fats make fish and flaxseeds, top sources of the nutrients, helpful if you're prone to yeast infections. UMMC recommends consuming more fish and fewer fatty animal products, such as red meat and whole milk, for improved symptoms. Fish particularly rich in omega-3s include mackerel, lake trout, herring and salmon. Grind whole flaxseeds within 24 hours of use or purchase ground seed in Mylar packaging to keep the ingredients active. Eat ground flaxseeds alone or as a nutritious addition to other foods, such as yogurt, cereal or smoothies.

• The anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 fats make fish and flaxseeds, top sources of the nutrients, helpful if you're prone to yeast infections.

Whole Grains for B Vitamins

White flour and other refined grains may increase yeast growth in your intestines, says WomensHealth.gov. Whole grains provide a nutritious alternative and, unlike refined grains, haven't been stripped of valuable nutrients such as B vitamins -- nutrients that may lower your risk for candida infections.

Fruits and Vegetables for Antioxidants

Should I Take a Probiotic Every Day?

Maintaining a strong immune system is important for keeping your candida levels in check, and colorful fruits and vegetables, leading antioxidant sources, are your best dietary friends. Eating at least 2 cups of fruit and 2-1/2 cups of vegetables per day is a good way to start meeting your basic needs, says the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics 5. Particularly antioxidant-rich varieties include:

• citrus fruits
• berries
• dark
• leafy greens
• sweet peppers
• potatoes

For added benefits, choose sweet fruits and vegetable dishes, such as natural applesauce or a baked sweet potato, instead of sugary sweets for dessert. Added sugars can stimulate candida production in your body, increasing your risk of infection.

• Maintaining a strong immune system is important for keeping your candida levels in check, and colorful fruits and vegetables, leading antioxidant sources, are your best dietary friends.

Antifungal Garlic and Spices

Cloves and cinnamon also provide a flavorful alternative to sugar in sweeter dishes, such as baked apples, pears and winter squash. Using more garlic and less butter on fish and in sauces and other dishes can help keep your intake of inflammatory fats down.

8 Foods That Kill Yeast

Yeast is a problem for many people, and there is a good chance that many do not even know it! Many doctors even claim that yeast does not cause wide spread health problems, however, there is evidence to the contrary.

In fact, manypeople that are suffering from a long list of health problems may actually be suffering from an underlying fungal infection.These can be problems ranging from weight gain and low energy to asthma, allergies and recurrent sinus infections, all the way todiabetes and cancer!

Many doctors, scientists, and researchers have published on the yeast connection to diseases, but it is still not well understood or accepted by many physicians.

Eat Your Medicine?

Fortunately for all, there is much you can do simply by changing your eating habits.

(For information on the Kaufmann Anti-fungal Diet,click HERE!)

While diet can go a long way, there are certain foods that are stellar at actually killing yeast!

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is known to have a variety of health benefits in the body and as a topical agent, in addition, to be extremely useful in the kitchen. Coconut oil, as it turns out, is excellent for killing yeast.

Many of the fatty acids inherent in coconut, such as caprylic acid, are potent yeast-killing compounds.

Cinnamon

In some studies, cinnamon performed better than some prescription medications at killing yeast, and it was effective against strains that were resistant to bacteria. Cinnamon is easy to incorporate into your diet, or it can be used supplementally in oil form. You should likely not use cinnamon topically.

Clove

Similar to cinnamon, clove performs remarkably well against potent strains of yeast. Clove contains a powerful compound called eugenol, which is effective against Candida and other yeasts.

Oregano

This common spice is known to have potent anti-fungal capabilities. Oregano oil is also potently antiviral and antimicrobial, making it an excellent first line of defense against infections, particularly if you would wish to avoid the necessity of an antibiotic.

Garlic

Rich in sulfur compounds, garlic exhibits powerful anti-fungal effects. Like oregano, garlic has many anti-microbial properties. It is one of the easiest ingredients to regularly and tastefully include into your diet.

(Some recommend garlic as use for a vaginal yeast infection, but this is likely advised against, unless under supervision of your doctor.)

Fatty Fish

Fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, sardines and other fish are rich in omega 3 fatty acids. Among their legion of benefits for heart health, skin health, mental function and other benefits, omega 3s exhibit some anti-fungal activity.

Omega 3s are something recommended by naturopaths and physicians, alike; it is just a bonus that they are also anti-fungal!

Plain Yogurt

While plain yogurt does not necessarily kill yeast, the beneficial bacteria within them can assist in fortifying the bodys natural defense mechanisms against yeast in the first place.

Beneficial bacteria line the gut and perform a variety of tasks, including immune function. It is no accident that they prevent yeast from flourishing; on the other hand, it is not surprising that yeast infections can occur following a round of antibiotics, which can damage the cultures of these good bacteria.

This is the primary reason why plain yogurt is recommended on Kaufmann 1 of the Kaufmann Diet.

Carrots

Carrots are rich in a number of phytonutrients, including beta-carotene, which is responsible for a carrots orange color. Among the other carotenoids and phytonutrients inherent in carrots is the nutrient falcarinol, which is known to kill to yeast.

The Candida Diet: Beginner's Guide and Meal Plan

While more research is needed, the candida diet limits foods and drinks with the potential to increase candida. The diet typically excludes alcohol, caffeine, and foods high in sugar and gluten.

Candida is the most common fungus in the human body. Its often found in areas like the mouth, skin, digestive tract, toenails, rectum and vagina (1).

Its generally harmless, but an overgrowth of this fungus can lead to infection (2).

The candida diet is a strict diet meant to alleviate the symptoms of candida infections. However, its effectiveness is unsupported by scientific evidence.

Heres a beginners guide to the candida diet and a sample meal plan.

There are more than 150 known candida species living in various parts of your body. These species aid digestion and nutrient absorption from food.

Possible symptoms of an infection include (3, 4, 5, 6):

• Nausea
• Bloating, constipation or diarrhea
• Chronic fatigue
• Skin issues such as eczema or rashes
• Recurrent urinary tract infections
• Irritability and mood swings
• Anxiety or depression
• Joint pain

Despite the large number of candida species in your body, only 15 can cause an infection. Candida albicans is the most common infection culprit, accounting for over half of all cases (7).

Risk Factors for Infection

There are several risk factors for candida infection, including (1, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12):

• A diet high in refined carbs and sugar
• High alcohol consumption
• Elevated stress levels
• Imbalance in your microbiota
• Improper use of catheters
• Birth control pills or antibiotics
• A diabetes mellitus diagnosis
• A weak immune system

If you have any of these risk factors, try addressing them through a change in diet or lifestyle. Consider incorporating meditation or stress management into your schedule.

Summary

Over 150 different candida species live in your body. Of these, 15 can cause infection if they overgrow. Risk factors for candida infections include a weak immune system and use of broad-spectrum antibiotics.

Though many studies have examined the risk factors for candida overgrowth, treatment plans are inconsistent and insufficiently studied (13).

The candida diet is claimed to be a possible treatment option.

This diet excludes sugar, gluten, alcohol, certain dairy products and harmful additives while encouraging low-sugar fruits, non-starchy vegetables and gluten-free foods.

However, most of these dietary restrictions are not supported by scientific evidence, as explained below:

• The diet excludes gluten because of claims it may damage your intestinal lining. However, there is no evidence that gluten causes intestinal damage in people who do not have gluten intolerance (celiac disease) (14).
• Very high sugar intake may worsen candida infections in people with weakened immune systems. A high-carb diet may increase candida counts in some people, but evidence that it increases infection risk is lacking (15).
• The diet also excludes some dairy products. In theory, lactose (milk sugar) may stimulate candida growth by increasing acidity in your mouth, but this hasnt been confirmed so far (16).
• Foods with artificial ingredients, high mold content, preservatives and pesticides are also excluded. However, no evidence has linked mold, preservatives or pesticides to an increased risk of candida infections.

Alcohol and caffeine are discouraged in order to support healthy lifestyle practices and prevent dietary cheating.

Overall, this diet is designed to reduce inflammation and incorporate wholesome foods that may benefit your gut and reduce the risk of candida over time.

Still, to date, no studies have confirmed the diets effectiveness.

Summary

The candida diet is supposed to reduce inflammation and ultimately cure candida infection by restricting certain food groups. However, there is currently no evidence that the diet works.

Before beginning the candida diet, advocates recommend going on a candida cleanse. This is a short-term diet that proponents believe will alleviate stress on your digestive tract and release toxins from your body.

While no studies support the benefits of a candida cleanse, it might help get you into the mindset for the candida diet. So far, no human studies have proven the effectiveness or benefits of detox diets or cleanses (17).

There are many ways to do a cleanse, but two common ways are:

• Drinking only fluids, such as lemon water or bone broth.
• Eating mainly vegetables, such as salads and steamed vegetables, alongside a small amount of protein throughout the day.

Some people may experience negative symptoms while starting a cleanse, such as fatigue, headaches, mood swings or changes in sleep patterns.

Keep in mind that the candida cleanse should not last more than a few days.

After you complete the cleanse, you can start following the candida diets food guidelines.

There is no specific timetable for the candida diet. The diets proponents claim that people may experience relief in a matter of weeks, while others may require many months to see a positive effect.

Its best to work with a healthcare provider when undertaking the candida diet to ensure adequate nutrient intake.

Before starting the candida diet, there are several things to consider:

• Start out slow: Instead of removing sugar, caffeine and gluten from your diet all at once, focus on removing one thing at a time to ease the process.
• Its meant to be short-term: This diet is meant to be used short-term until your symptoms have improved. Its not meant to replace a long-term diet plan.

Summary

The candida diet starts with a cleanse followed by strict adherence to the diets food list. Its best to work with a healthcare provider when following this diet.

Focus on incorporating these foods while on the candida diet:

• Low-sugar fruits: Lemon, limes, berries (may be eaten in small amounts).
• Non-starchy vegetables: Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, broccoli, kale, celery, cucumber, eggplant, onion, spinach, zucchini, tomatoes and rutabaga (best if eaten raw or steamed).
• Gluten-free grains: Millet, quinoa, oat bran and buckwheat.
• High-quality protein: Chicken, eggs, salmon, turkey and sardines (organic, pasture-raised and wild-caught varieties are best).
• Healthy fats: Avocado, olives, unrefined coconut oil, flax oil, extra-virgin olive oil and sesame oil.
• Certain dairy products: Butter, ghee, organic kefir or plain yogurt.
• Nuts and seeds low in mold: Almonds, sunflower seeds, coconut or flaxseed.
• Herbs and spices: Black pepper, salt, cinnamon, dill, garlic, ginger, oregano, rosemary, paprika, turmeric and thyme.
• Condiments: Apple cider vinegar, coconut aminos and sauerkraut.
• No-sugar sweeteners: Stevia, erythritol and xylitol.
• Non-caffeinated beverages: Herbal teas, chicory coffee, filtered water, homemade almond milk, coconut milk (look for one without additives) and water infused with lemon or lime.

In addition, probiotic supplements may help alleviate inflammation, kill off harmful organisms and reduce the prevalence of candida and infection symptoms (18, 19, 20).

Summary

The candida diet promotes the consumption of whole and low-sugar foods, non-starchy vegetables, healthy protein, non-caffeinated beverages and gluten-free grains.

The candida diet is a strict diet that eliminates sugar, gluten, alcohol and some dairy products. Candida diet proponents believe these foods promote candida overgrowth.

Avoiding these foods has not been proven to be effective against candida infections. However, studies suggest excessive sugar intake may worsen infections in mice with a weakened immune system (21).

The list of foods to avoid on the candida diet include:

• High-sugar fruits: Bananas, dates, raisins, grapes and mango.
• Grains that contain gluten: Wheat, rye, barley and spelt.
• Certain meats: Deli meats and farm-raised fish.
• Refined oils and fats: Canola oil, soybean oil, sunflower oil or margarine.
• Condiments: Ketchup, soy sauce, white vinegar, BBQ sauce, horseradish or mayonnaise.
• Certain dairy products: Cheese, milk and cream.
• Sugar and artificial sweeteners: Aspartame, agave, cane sugar, corn syrup, honey, maple syrup, molasses and table sugar.
• Nuts and seeds higher in mold: Peanuts, cashews, pecans and pistachios.
• Caffeine, alcohol and sugary beverages: Caffeinated teas, coffee, energy drinks, soda, fruit juice, beer, wine or spirits.
• Additives: Nitrates or sulfates.

Summary

The candida diet discourages the intake of high-sugar foods, additives, processed foods, certain meats, fats and oils, as well as caffeinated and alcoholic beverages.

This sample menu provides foods that are acceptable on the candida diet. Adjust this menu based on your own preferences.

Monday

• Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with tomatoes and avocado on the side
• Lunch: Turkey atop a salad of greens, avocado slices, cabbage, broccoli and an olive oil dressing
• Dinner: Stir-fry of quinoa, chicken breast, steamed vegetables and coconut aminos

Tuesday

• Breakfast: Yogurt parfait made with plain yogurt, 1/4 cup (25 grams) of berries, cinnamon and almonds
• Lunch: Thai red curry chicken (try this recipe)
• Dinner: Salmon cakes served with steamed broccoli and a cup of bone broth

Wednesday

• Breakfast: Turkey-and-sage breakfast sausages (like these) with a side of Brussels sprouts
• Lunch: Lemon-roasted chicken served over salad greens
• Dinner: Hamburger patty (no bun), topped with avocado and served with steamed vegetables and sauerkraut

Thursday

• Breakfast: Vegetable omelet made with eggs, shallots, spinach and tomatoes
• Lunch: Leftover turkey-and-sage breakfast sausages with a side of sauted cabbage
• Dinner: Coconut curry chicken over quinoa and steamed vegetables

Friday

• Breakfast: Omelet made with red peppers, onions, kale and fried eggs
• Lunch: Turkey meatballs with a kale salad and millet topped with ghee
• Dinner: Wild-caught salmon seasoned with lemon and dill, plus a side of asparagus

Saturday

• Breakfast: Buckwheat breakfast muffins (try this recipe) with chicory coffee
• Lunch: Leftover coconut curry chicken over quinoa and steamed vegetables
• Dinner: Zucchini noodles topped with chicken, raw garlic, pesto and olive oil

Sunday

• Breakfast: Smoothie made from plain kefir, a handful of berries, almond butter, coconut and cinnamon
• Lunch: Chef salad of hard boiled eggs, turkey, tomatoes, cucumbers, olives and an olive-oil-based dressing
• Dinner: Chicken fajita bowl made with chicken, peppers, onions, cilantro, avocado and salad greens

Summary

Although this diet can be restrictive, there are still plenty of healthy, scrumptious options available.

Despite the lack of evidence supporting the candida diets effectiveness, it has many potential benefits due to its focus on healthy foods.

The diet consists of whole foods that can also be beneficial for weight loss, heart health, gut function and reduced inflammation in your body (22, 23, 24).

The diet also focuses on removing sugary foods, which have been linked to obesity, diabetes, heart disease and metabolic syndrome (25, 26).

A diet such as this can be beneficial for anyone even those without candida overgrowth.

Summary

The candida diet is an anti-inflammatory and nutrient-rich diet that may offer numerous health benefits beyond reduced candida overgrowth.

One major pitfall of the candida diet is that there is little human research into its effectiveness and available research is controversial.

One 3-month study in 120 people with intestinal candida overgrowth showed that dietary changes had significantly reduced the numbers of candida yeasts in stool, compared to those who didnt change their diet (27).

A study in mice with a weak immune system found that the consumption of sugar increased candida growth in the digestive tract (28).

On the other hand, one small study examined the growth of candida before, during and after a high-sugar diet in healthy people. Researchers discovered that a high-sugar diet had a limited effect on the growth of candida (29).

Another negative is the diets strictness. Sugar, gluten, most fruits, starchy vegetables, some meats, nuts, seeds, alcohol and caffeine are banned on this diet. Therefore, it requires more work to adjust to this eating style.

The candida diet may also pose difficulties if youre on a budget or dont enjoy cooking and meal planning.

Fortunately, this diet has a limited scope. Its intended to be followed only while you are experiencing symptoms of candida infection.

Summary

Major downsides of the candida diet include a lack of research and strict food rules. Therefore, it may not work for everyone.

Proponents of the candida diet claim that it kills off candida overgrowth by eliminating sugar, gluten, alcohol and some dairy products.

It focuses on organic, low-sugar, high-quality produce, meats and fats.

There is currently no strong evidence supporting the effectiveness of the candida diet. While the diet is healthy overall, many of its recommendations are not based on science.

Nonetheless, if you have been diagnosed with a candida infection, it may be helpful to see if this diet works for you.