A healthy Miss V contains health bacteria and a number of yeast cells. These components in their right balance maintain its natural environment. When the balance in the bacteria changes, it gives room for the yeast cells to multiply in large unnecessary numbers, causing an uncomfortable itchy situation. This resulting irritation is often known as yeast infection or simply Candidiasis.
Candidiasis is common and affects three out of every four women. Most women experience this condition at least twice during their lifetime. Research indicates that 5 to 8 percent of women experience recurrent (chronic yeast infections) and come down with four or more yeast infections in a single year. Candidiasis is characterized by itchiness in the vulva, swelling, soreness, redness, discharge and pain during intimacy among others.
There are many factors that contribute to an imbalance in healthy vaginal bacteria. Among these factors is diet. Foods you choose to eat may alter your body’s ability to produce the bacteria in healthy amounts. Some foods increase the risk of getting a yeast infection while others maintain your bacterial component to a healthy amount.
Some of the foods that help you keep yeast infections at bay are;
Yogurt (unsweetened)
Yogurt contains Lactobacillus acidophilus, a bacterium that also happens to be found in healthy vaginas. This bacterium restores balance in your cookie jar by killing yeast through the production of hydrogen peroxide. Including yogurt in your diet regularly lowers the risk of yeast infections.
Garlic
This onion like bulb was used to help wounds heal back in World War I due to its powerful bacteria ability. It contains natural antifungal substances that kill yeast which leads to itching and keeps your bacterial balance right.
Coconut oil
The fatty oil derived from the flesh of the coconut fruit is known for its many health benefits including keeping your hormonal production on track. In 2007, Researchers discovered that the Candida albicans, a strain of the yeast in your cookie jar is susceptible to concentrated coconut oil. Coconut oil also has three fatty acids (antiviral, antimicrobial and antifungal) that target harmful bacteria and explode the nucleus of yeast cells.
Apple cider vinegar
Constant inclusion of apple cider vinegar in your diet keeps your pH levels right. Sipping at least one to two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar fights candida. For best results, add the vinegar to your glass of water. Alternatively, substitute vinegar in all recipes such as salad dressings since it ensures an ongoing prevention against crazy yeast cells multiplication.
Cranberries
When consumed regularly, juice from cranberries prevents recurrent yeast infections. The juice, which is rich in vitamin C, helps to correct the pH levels and keeps yeast cells under control. After you drink freshly extracted cranberry juice, your body flushes out unhealthy yeast cells.
Apart from observing this diet, you should also observe proper hygiene and avoid clothes that increase the risk of yeast infections.