What You Can Eat for Candida

Candida is a yeast-like fungus that normally lives in the body in limited numbers; there are actually more than 20 species of candida. When candida grows out of control, it causes candidiasis, which can result in infections such as thrush, diaper rash, skin infections and vaginal infections. Less commonly, it causes infection of the digestive tract and some system-wide infections.

Causes of Candidiasis

The most common cause of candidiasis is overuse or repeated use of antibiotics that kill the good bacteria that keep candida growth under control. Some of the more common causes of candidiasis are poor nutrition, use of steroids, pregnancy and use of birth-control pills. It is also a complication of type 2 diabetes and of conditions that weaken the immune system, such as cancer.

Symptoms of Candidiasis

Candidiasis can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms are like those of many other conditions. Depending on where the infection is, it can cause dry mouth and tongue, bleeding gums or white patches in the mouth; there may be cracks in the tongue or at the corners of the mouth. It can cause vaginal itching, burning and a white discharge. There may be skin rashes and skin irritation, especially in skin folds. The most common symptoms of digestive tract infection are indigestion, heartburn, abdominal pain, gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation and mucus in the stool. Candidiasis can also cause headache, drowsiness, fatigue and pain or swelling of the joints.

Treatment of Candidiasis

Prescription antifungal medications, such as Diflucan, Nystatin and Lamisil, are used in the treatment of candidiasis. Regular exercise also helps. Your doctor might also suggest digestive enzymes and probiotics (combinations of "friendly bacteria"). Diet is a major part of treatment and includes both foods you should eat as well as those you should not eat.

What You Should Not Eat

Stay away from foods that "feed" the fungi--especially anything containing sugar or artificial sweeteners, alcohol, vinegar and foods made with vinegar (including ketchup and barbecue sauce) or foods that contain yeast (such as bread). Avoid caffeine and carbonated drinks, mushrooms, fermented foods (such as cheese), pickled foods and wheat products that contain gluten (including pasta). Do not eat foods that contain MSG, sodium nitrite (found in processed lunch meats, bacon and hot dogs), and hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils (trans fats).

What You Can Eat

Eat plain, non-sweetened yogurt every day (make sure it contains no fruit and no sugars of any kind), plenty of non-starchy vegetables, chicken, turkey and lean beef. Omega-3 fatty acids are recommended, so eat tuna, salmon, fish oil, and walnuts. Sprouted nuts and seeds are good in the treatment of candidiasis, as is ground flax meal.