Are you what you eat?

You may not think there's much of a connection between your top and your bottom, but what you put into your mouth can sometimes affect the health of your vagina.

Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of the normal yeast in your body. So foods that affect your yeast levels may help prevent – or even kick-start – a yeast infection.

Then again, some of the foods you eat make no difference. While it's easy to find claims that foods like legumes, grains, and dairy products can cause yeast problems, what's more important is sorting out the fact from the fiction. Read on for the facts.

Sugary foods
Those sweet treats you crave are like supervitamins for the yeast inside your body. High levels of sugar in foods can promote yeast growth and lead to an infection. That doesn't mean you have to give up completely on chocolate bars or pop. But do limit your intake.

Alcohol
Drinking alcohol may also put you at greater risk for yeast infections. So if you're worried about yeast infection symptoms, consider curbing your cocktails.

Yeast-free diet
Eating only yeast-free foods is one way some women try to control yeast infections. But before you turn your back on breads, you should know that researchers have not yet found any clear benefit from yeast-free diets.

Yogurt
Eating yogurt can help prevent a yeast infection. But check the label before you buy. Be sure to choose yogurt containing active Lactobacillus acidophilus. These are helpful bacteria that can keep your yeast levels in line. And make sure you're not buying yogurt packed with sugar – choose plain yogurt that dose not contain added sugar, or choose low-sugar options.

Overall healthy diet
A healthy, well-balanced diet high in fibre will boost your body's ability to resist any kind of infection. Make sure your meals and snacks include choices from all the food groups. If you struggle with eating well, consider taking a multivitamin. Talk to your doctor about what's right for you.

If you're experiencing yeast infection symptoms or would like to know more about the connection between food and yeast infections, visit your doctor.

All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2023. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/Yeast-Infections-Fact-vs-Fiction