Allowable Grains on Candida Diet

The candida diet is designed for those who have an abundance of yeast in the digestive tract, or suffer from yeast infections. Naturally occurring yeast candida albicans is important to the body, but when the balance of yeast is upset through a diet high in sugar or taking antibiotics, the yeast can take over other microorganisms, spreading throughout the body and blood stream. There are only a few allowable grains on the candida diet and sugar is forbidden.

Candida Diet

The candida diet is very strict, but is effective in killing the overabundance of yeast. In order to get rid of the yeast, you must avoid foods that help it thrive, including carbohydrates and sugar. Unfortunately, the yeast craves these food items, making it difficult for your body to avoid them.

Avoid sugar at all costs to start to kill yeast in the body. Eating sugar while having excessive yeast in the body also weakens the immune system, making you susceptible to colds and flus. Candida thrives on sugar, so eliminating it is the first step in getting rid of the yeast. Read food labels carefully to avoid eating hidden sugar, especially in the form of lactose, dextrose, maltose, fructose and any types of syrups, sugars or molasses.

Other foods to avoid that can increase yeast growth are wheat, alcohol, dairy, caffeine, yeast and processed foods. Stick to a low-carb diet, eating mostly vegetables and lean protein such as chicken, fish and beef. Eat low-carb vegetables like kale, cabbage, spinach, green leafy vegetables, zucchinis, cucumbers, onions and garlic.

While grains are not forbidden on the candida diet, keep in mind they might be high in carbohydrates which can prompt yeast growth in the digestive tract. Some grains that are allowed in small servings include rye, oats, rice and quinoa.
Yogurt is beneficial since it has healthy bacteria which will help in the fight against candida. Eggs are acceptable to eat, since they are a good protein source.

Length of Diet

The amount of time you should stay on the candida diet depends on how long your symptoms last. Most individuals begin to see a decline of yeast infection symptoms within four weeks; however, some may take longer to see results.

Once you stop the candida diet, slowly incorporate foods back into daily meals. Reduce additional occurrences of candida by limiting sugar intake and eating healthy probiotics like acidophilus, which is found in yogurt or as supplemental capsules.