How can diet changes prevent yeast infections. What lifestyle modifications reduce the risk of vaginal candidiasis. Which foods should be avoided to maintain vaginal health. How do probiotics help prevent yeast overgrowth. What are effective natural remedies for yeast infections.

Understanding Vaginal Yeast Infections: Causes and Symptoms

Vaginal yeast infections, also known as candidiasis, are a common condition affecting up to 75% of women at least once in their lifetime. These infections occur when there’s an overgrowth of Candida, a type of fungus naturally present in the vagina. Understanding the causes and symptoms is crucial for effective prevention and treatment.

Common Causes of Yeast Infections

• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Antibiotic use
• Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause, breastfeeding)
• Weakened immune system
• Use of vaginal sprays or douches
• Sexual activity

Do certain factors increase the risk of developing a yeast infection? Indeed, several conditions and lifestyle choices can disrupt the vaginal microbiome balance, leading to yeast overgrowth. For instance, high blood sugar levels in uncontrolled diabetes provide an ideal environment for yeast to thrive. Similarly, antibiotics can eliminate beneficial bacteria that normally keep yeast in check, increasing the likelihood of infection.

Recognizing Yeast Infection Symptoms

Identifying the symptoms of a yeast infection is crucial for prompt treatment. Common signs include:

• Intense itching and irritation in and around the vagina
• Redness and swelling of the vulva
• Burning sensation during urination or intercourse
• Thick, white, odorless discharge resembling cottage cheese

Can yeast infection symptoms mimic other conditions? Yes, it’s important to note that these symptoms can be similar to those of other vaginal infections or sexually transmitted diseases. Therefore, consulting a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis is essential, especially if it’s your first yeast infection or if symptoms persist despite over-the-counter treatment.

The Role of Diet in Preventing Yeast Infections

Diet plays a significant role in maintaining vaginal health and preventing yeast infections. Certain foods can either promote or inhibit the growth of Candida, making dietary choices an important factor in managing yeast overgrowth.

Foods to Avoid for Yeast Infection Prevention

To reduce the risk of yeast infections, consider limiting or avoiding the following foods:

• White flour and rice
• Foods or drinks fermented with yeast
• Simple sugars and high-sugar foods
• Alcohol
• Processed and packaged foods high in preservatives

Why should these foods be avoided? These items are high in simple carbohydrates and sugars, which can feed yeast and promote its growth. By reducing their intake, you can create an environment less conducive to Candida overgrowth.

Beneficial Foods for Vaginal Health

Incorporating certain foods into your diet can help maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome:

• Non-starchy vegetables (leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower)
• Lean proteins (chicken, fish, tofu)
• Healthy fats (avocado, olive oil, nuts)
• Low-sugar fruits (berries, green apples)
• Probiotic-rich foods (yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut)

How do these foods support vaginal health? These nutrient-dense options provide essential vitamins and minerals that support immune function and promote a balanced microbiome. Additionally, probiotic-rich foods introduce beneficial bacteria that can help prevent yeast overgrowth.

The Power of Probiotics in Yeast Infection Prevention

Probiotics have gained significant attention for their role in maintaining vaginal health and preventing yeast infections. These beneficial bacteria help restore and maintain the natural balance of microorganisms in the vagina, making it less hospitable for yeast overgrowth.

Natural Sources of Probiotics

Incorporating probiotic-rich foods into your diet can be an effective strategy for preventing yeast infections. Some excellent sources include:

• Yogurt with live cultures
• Kefir
• Kombucha
• Sauerkraut
• Kimchi
• Miso

Are all probiotic foods equally effective for vaginal health? While all probiotic foods can contribute to overall gut health, those containing Lactobacillus species, particularly L. acidophilus and L. rhamnosus, have shown the most promise in supporting vaginal health and preventing yeast infections.

Probiotic Supplements for Yeast Infection Prevention

In addition to dietary sources, probiotic supplements can be an effective way to increase beneficial bacteria in the body. When choosing a probiotic supplement for yeast infection prevention, look for:

• Strains specific to vaginal health (e.g., Lactobacillus acidophilus, L. rhamnosus, L. reuteri)
• High colony-forming unit (CFU) count (at least 1 billion CFUs)
• Multi-strain formulations
• Delayed-release capsules for better survival through the digestive tract

How often should probiotic supplements be taken for optimal results? For general vaginal health maintenance, a daily probiotic supplement can be beneficial. However, during periods of increased risk (e.g., while taking antibiotics), more frequent doses or higher potency supplements may be recommended. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Lifestyle Modifications to Reduce Yeast Infection Risk

While diet plays a crucial role in preventing yeast infections, lifestyle factors are equally important. Implementing certain habits and avoiding others can significantly reduce the risk of developing vaginal candidiasis.

Hygiene Practices for Vaginal Health

Proper hygiene is essential for maintaining a healthy vaginal environment. Consider the following practices:

• Wear breathable, cotton underwear
• Avoid tight-fitting pants or synthetic materials
• Change out of wet swimsuits or workout clothes promptly
• Use unscented, gentle soaps for cleansing
• Avoid douching or using scented feminine products
• Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom

Why are these hygiene practices important for preventing yeast infections? These habits help maintain a dry, breathable environment around the vagina, which is less conducive to yeast growth. Additionally, avoiding harsh chemicals and maintaining proper cleanliness can help preserve the natural balance of vaginal flora.

Stress Management and Yeast Infection Prevention

Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to yeast overgrowth. Implementing stress-reduction techniques can be beneficial:

• Regular exercise
• Meditation or mindfulness practices
• Adequate sleep (7-9 hours per night)
• Engaging in hobbies or relaxing activities
• Seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist when needed

How does stress reduction contribute to preventing yeast infections? By managing stress, you support your immune system’s ability to maintain balance in the body, including the vaginal microbiome. This can help prevent opportunistic overgrowth of yeast and other pathogens.

Natural Remedies and Supplements for Yeast Infection Prevention

In addition to dietary changes and lifestyle modifications, certain natural remedies and supplements may help prevent yeast infections or alleviate symptoms when they occur.

Herbal Remedies for Vaginal Health

Several herbs have shown promise in supporting vaginal health and preventing yeast overgrowth:

• Garlic: Contains allicin, a compound with antifungal properties
• Oregano oil: Rich in thymol and carvacrol, which have antimicrobial effects
• Tea tree oil: Possesses antifungal and antibacterial properties
• Calendula: Known for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties

Are these herbal remedies safe for everyone? While generally considered safe, it’s important to use caution when applying these remedies, especially internally. Always dilute essential oils properly and consult with a healthcare provider before using any new herbal remedy, particularly if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications.

Beneficial Supplements for Yeast Infection Prevention

Certain supplements may help boost the body’s natural defenses against yeast overgrowth:

• Vitamin C: Supports immune function
• Vitamin D: Helps regulate immune responses
• Zinc: Essential for immune system health
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Possess anti-inflammatory properties
• Caprylic acid: A medium-chain fatty acid with antifungal properties

How do these supplements contribute to yeast infection prevention? These nutrients support overall immune function and help maintain a healthy balance of microorganisms in the body. However, it’s crucial to remember that supplements should not replace a balanced diet and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Managing Recurrent Yeast Infections: When to Seek Professional Help

While occasional yeast infections can often be managed with over-the-counter treatments and lifestyle changes, recurrent infections may require professional intervention. Understanding when to seek medical help is crucial for effective management of chronic yeast infections.

Signs It’s Time to Consult a Healthcare Provider

Consider seeking professional help if you experience:

• Four or more yeast infections in a year
• Symptoms that don’t improve with over-the-counter treatments
• Unusual symptoms or discharge
• Persistent symptoms despite lifestyle and dietary changes
• Yeast infections coinciding with other health issues

Why is professional intervention important for recurrent yeast infections? A healthcare provider can perform tests to confirm the diagnosis, rule out other conditions, and identify any underlying factors contributing to recurrent infections. They may also prescribe stronger antifungal medications or recommend a long-term prevention plan tailored to your specific needs.

Advanced Treatment Options for Chronic Yeast Infections

For those suffering from recurrent yeast infections, healthcare providers may recommend:

• Long-term suppressive antifungal therapy
• Boric acid suppositories
• Prescription-strength probiotics
• Hormone therapy (in some cases)
• Evaluation for underlying health conditions

How effective are these advanced treatments for chronic yeast infections? While individual responses may vary, many women find relief through these more intensive treatment approaches. Your healthcare provider can work with you to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on your medical history, symptoms, and the frequency of infections.

Maintaining Long-Term Vaginal Health: A Holistic Approach

Preventing yeast infections and maintaining overall vaginal health requires a comprehensive, long-term approach. By combining dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and appropriate medical care, you can significantly reduce your risk of recurring infections and promote optimal vaginal health.

Key Strategies for Long-Term Vaginal Health

• Maintain a balanced diet low in sugar and rich in nutrients
• Incorporate probiotic foods and supplements into your routine
• Practice good hygiene habits
• Manage stress through regular exercise and relaxation techniques
• Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid unnecessary antibiotic use
• Get regular check-ups and screenings

Can a holistic approach completely eliminate the risk of yeast infections? While no strategy can guarantee 100% prevention, adopting a holistic approach to vaginal health can significantly reduce your risk of developing yeast infections and improve your overall well-being. Remember that each person’s body is unique, so it may take some time to find the combination of strategies that works best for you.

By implementing these dietary, lifestyle, and preventive measures, you can take control of your vaginal health and reduce the frequency and severity of yeast infections. Remember to listen to your body, stay informed about your health, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help when needed. With the right approach, you can maintain a healthy vaginal environment and enjoy improved overall well-being.

Preventing Vaginal Yeast Infections With Lifestyle and Diet Changes

SCL Health


Saltzer Health


Intermountain Nevada

Marysa Anderson-Cardwell, MS, RDN, CD, CPT






Mar 22, 2018

If you prefer to listen to this article, click on the SoundCloud player below.

About 75% of women will experience a vaginal yeast infection sometime in their life, and up to 45% of those women will have repeat yeast infections. That’s a daunting prospect if you’ve had one before —it’s not something you want to do again. Thankfully, you can make lifestyle and diet changes to prevent a yeast infection.

Symptoms of a yeast infection

A vaginal yeast infection can be a miserable experience. Symptoms typically include:

• Redness, swelling, and itching in and around your vaginal opening
• Vaginal pain
• Watery or thick discharge that looks like cottage cheese
• Burning sensation while urinating or during intercourse

Causes of a yeast infection

Many things can cause a yeast infection. Some of the common causes of vaginal yeast infections include:

• Uncontrolled diabetes. High amounts of sugar in your body can feed yeast in your vagina. Once you get your diabetes under control, the bacteria in your body should follow suit.
• Antibiotics. Because antibiotics kill both good and bad bacteria, you’re more likely to get a yeast infection while taking them. If you get recurrent yeast infections, let your doctor know if they’re considering prescribing an antibiotic. They may be able to help.
• Sex. You can pass a yeast infection to your partner during sex, so communicate clearly with your partner before engaging in intercourse.
• Hormones during pregnancy, menopause, or breastfeeding can change the bacterial balance in your vagina.
• Immune system disorders may let yeast grow uncontrolled in your body.
• Products like vaginal sprays or douches can change the balance of bacteria in your vagina.

Being aware of the causes of a yeast infection can often help to head them off before symptoms begin. For example, if you know you’ll be taking antibiotics, also take probiotics. This can help keep the bacteria in your vagina balanced.

Diet for a yeast infection

The foods you eat may be contributing to your recurring yeast infections. Yeast loves sugar. Avoiding the following foods (also known as a Candida diet) can curb the growth of yeast in your body.

• White flour and rice
• Foods or drinks fermented with yeast
• Foods made up of simple sugars

Although avoiding these foods may help you avoid a yeast infection, this diet can be difficult to maintain. Fortunately, you may not need to completely eliminate these foods to see positive effects in the number or severity of yeast infections you get. Cutting back in small amounts may help.

It may also help to increase your intake of healthy proteins and fats and increase your intake of low-starch fruits and vegetables. Eating a low-sugar diet doesn’t mean you have to go hungry; you just need to eat more from other food groups.

Probiotics might help

Certain bacteria occur naturally in your digestive tract, on your skin, and in other parts of your body. When you get a yeast infection, your body’s natural bacteria have gotten out of balance. Consuming probiotics can help to balance the good bacteria in your body. Good sources for probiotics are:

• Yogurt with live bacterial cultures
• Fermented foods such as kimchi, kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut, and pickles
• Supplements containing lactobacillus or acidophilus

Some women have success in preventing and treating yeast infections when they consume yogurt (or a probiotic supplement) regularly.

Lifestyle changes for preventing yeast infections

You can do several other things – beyond dieting – to help prevent yeast infections. In fact, good genital hygiene is one of the best ways to prevent this type of infection. This includes:

• Keep things clean. Use mild, unscented soap and water to keep your vaginal area clean.
• Choose the right underwear. Your underwear should keep your genital area dry. Cotton underwear is a good choice. Sleeping without underwear can also help.
• After using the bathroom, wipe from front to back to avoid spreading yeast or bacteria between your anus, urinary tract, or vagina.
• Don’t wear swimsuits longer than necessary. Wearing a wet swimsuit will foster the spread of yeast because it keeps things warm and wet.
• Don’t wear tight clothes. Tight-fitting clothing also keeps your genitals warm and moist.
• Change tampons and pads regularly.
• Avoid douches and any kind of perfumed sprays, powders, or tampons.

When to see a doctor?

Even with all of your preventive efforts, you can still get a yeast infection. So when should you see a doctor? You should consider making an appointment if:

• You’re experiencing a yeast infection for the first time
• Your symptoms don’t go away after using over-the-counter antifungal vaginal creams or suppositories
• You’re not sure if you have a yeast infection
• You develop unrelated symptoms
• You have recurrent yeast infections regardless of any preventive efforts

LiVe Well

Last Updated:
2/29/2020

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5 Diet Tips to Fight Candida Yeast Infections

If you think you have a yeast infection, see your medical practitioner for an antifungal medication. Following a healthy diet or taking supplements like probiotics may help.

Yeast infections are a problem for many people.

They’re most often caused by Candida yeasts, especially Candida albicans (1).

If you think you may have a yeast infection, the first thing you should do is talk to your medical provider.

However, several foods and dietary changes may also help.

Here are 5 diet tips to fight Candida infections.

1. Coconut oil

Candida yeasts are microscopic fungi found around the skin, mouth, or gut (2).

They’re usually harmless but may cause infections when your body’s defenses are weakened.

Plants have their own defenses against yeasts and other fungi, and some produce compounds that are toxic to fungi.

A good example is lauric acid, a saturated fatty acid widely studied for its antimicrobial and antifungal effects.

Coconut oil is almost 50% lauric acid. This makes it one of the richest dietary sources of this compound, which rarely occurs in high amounts in food.

Test-tube studies suggest that lauric acid is very effective against Candida yeasts. As such, coconut oil may have similar effects (3, 4, 5).

For this reason, using coconut oil as mouthwash — a method known as oil pulling — may curb thrush, or Candida infections in your mouth.

Keep in mind that human studies are needed to confirm these benefits.

SUMMARY One of the main components of
coconut oil, lauric acid, may fight Candida infections. However, human
research is needed to confirm these effects.

2. Probiotics

Several factors may make some people more prone to Candida infections, including diabetes and a weakened or suppressed immune system.

Antibiotics may also increase your risk, as strong dosages sometimes kill a portion of the beneficial bacteria in your gut (1, 2).

These bacteria are a part of your body’s natural defenses against Candida yeasts. They protect against infections by competing with them for space and nutrients (6).

Probiotics may help restore these populations of beneficial bacteria (7).

Probiotics are live bacteria often found in fermented foods, such as yogurt with active cultures. They can also be taken in supplements.

Studies suggest that probiotics may fight Candida infections (8).

A 12-week study in 215 older adults showed that taking lozenges containing 2 strains of the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri significantly reduced the amount of Candida yeasts in their mouths (9).

In another study in 65 people with thrush, taking probiotics significantly improved the effectiveness of a conventional antifungal treatment (10).

Probiotics may also reduce the growth of Candida in your gut, and some evidence indicates that vaginal capsules with Lactobacillus probiotics may combat vaginal yeast infections (11, 12, 13, 14).

SUMMARY Probiotics may reduce Candida
growth and protect against infections in your mouth and gut. Vaginal capsules
may also be effective.

3. A low-sugar diet

Yeasts grow faster when sugar is readily available in their environment (15, 16, 17).

In fact, high levels of sugar in your bloodstream increase your risk of Candida infections (1, 18, 19, 20).

In one study, sugar increased Candida growth in the digestive system of mice with weakened immune systems (21).

In a human study, rinsing with dissolved sugar (sucrose) has been linked to increased infections and higher yeast counts in the mouth (22).

On the other hand, another human study found that a high-sugar diet did not affect Candida growth in the mouth or digestive system (23).

However, human studies are limited, and more research is needed (24).

Even if a low-sugar diet may not always be effective against yeasts, eliminating added sugar from your diet will improve your health in many other ways.

SUMMARY Candida yeasts favor high-sugar
environments. However, there’s limited evidence for the benefits of a low-sugar
diet against Candida infections.

4. Garlic

Garlic is another plant food with strong antifungal properties. This is partly due to allicin, a substance that forms when fresh garlic is crushed or damaged (25).

When given to mice in high amounts, allicin seems to fight Candida yeasts at a slightly less effective level than the antifungal drug fluconazole (26).

Test-tube research also indicates that garlic extract may reduce yeasts’ ability to attach to the cells lining your mouth (27).

However, garlic provides only tiny amounts of allicin, whereas most studies use high doses.

One 14-day study in women found that taking garlic supplements in capsules did not affect vaginal yeast infections (28).

Overall, more clinical trials are needed to determine whether eating garlic has any treatment value in humans.

Nevertheless, spicing up your food with garlic is safe and healthy. It might also work well alongside conventional Candida treatments.

Keep in mind that using raw garlic in sensitive areas, such as your mouth, can be harmful and cause severe chemical burns (29, 30).

SUMMARY Allicin in garlic acts against Candida.
Still, it’s unclear whether eating garlic affects yeast infections.

5. Curcumin

Curcumin is one of the main active components of turmeric, a popular Indian spice (31).

Test-tube research indicates that curcumin may kill Candida yeasts — or at least reduce their growth (32, 33, 34, 35).

Another study suggested that curcumin may reduce yeasts’ ability to attach to cells from the mouths of people with HIV. In fact, curcumin was more effective than fluconazole, an antifungal drug (36).

Nonetheless, studies are limited to test tubes. It’s unclear whether curcumin supplements have effects in humans.

SUMMARY Curcumin, one of the active components of turmeric,
may kill Candida yeasts. However, human studies are needed.

The bottom line

If you think you have a yeast infection, see your medical practitioner for an antifungal medication.

If you tend to get a lot of these infections, following a healthy diet or taking supplements like probiotics may help.

On their own, these diet strategies are far from being an effective treatment. But as a preventative measure, or alongside medication, they could make a difference.

Diet for candidiasis: proper nutrition for thrush

02/09/2022

• Reasons to follow a diet when treating thrush in women
• Diet for thrush in women
• Products that provoke candidiasis

Candidiasis (thrush) causes considerable discomfort to both women and men. With incorrect / insufficient treatment or non-compliance with some preventive rules, this disease can become chronic. And this entails not only psychological stress, but a significant decrease in the quality of life. Therefore, the treatment of candidiasis should be comprehensive and include not only the use of antifungal drugs, but also the observance of certain rules. And first of all it concerns the diet.

Why you should follow a diet in the treatment of thrush in women

Candidiasis is an infectious disease that occurs as a result of the growth and reproduction of yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida. These fungi are conditionally pathogenic for humans. For most healthy people, they are absolutely natural and do not cause discomfort, because. immunity independently controls the growth of these fungi.

However, if the immune system fails, then the likelihood of thrush is significantly increased. So, when a person consumes few fruits, vegetables, he lacks vitamins and nutrients, this can provoke the growth of a colony of Candida fungi. Therefore, it is the products used that can slow down or speed up their division.

Diet for thrush in women

The menu for candidiasis, as a rule, corresponds to the rules of a healthy and balanced diet. However, there are still minor differences. So, it is allowed to use all products that help suppress the fermentation process in the intestines.

The right foods to eat for thrush in women:

• Lean meats: veal, chicken, turkey.
• Low-fat varieties of fish.
• Dairy products. They contain beneficial lactobacilli, which have a detrimental effect on fungi of this species.
• Vegetables. It is better to give preference to beans, cucumbers, tomatoes, garlic, onions and any kind of cabbage.
• Whole grain cereals.
• Greens (dill, parsley).

Products should be steamed, boiled or stewed. It is advisable to avoid excessively fatty, spicy, salty and smoked foods. You should also refrain from drinking alcohol. The diet for thrush in men is the same, only it includes more calories.

Products that provoke candidiasis

To understand how to eat right with thrush, you should know what factors can provoke the onset of this disease. These include:

• Consumption of large amounts of sugar and sugar-containing foods: chocolate, ice cream, sweets, etc.
• Excessive consumption of sweet fruits (pineapple, banana, etc.) and flour products (yeast products, cakes, etc.).
• Abuse of fast food and semi-finished products, because these foods often contain “hidden sugar”.

Various sugars are an ideal breeding ground for the development and reproduction of fungi of the genus Candida. Therefore, by giving up sweets, a person removes favorable conditions for the reproduction of these opportunistic fungi and the likelihood of the reappearance of thrush is somewhat reduced.

In addition to following nutritional recommendations, it is better to adhere to other preventive measures that will prevent the appearance of thrush:

• Avoid inappropriate antibiotic therapy.
• Avoid wearing tight underwear and clothing, including
  from synthetic materials.
• Use drugs to prevent thrush
  according to the scheme prescribed by the gynecologist.

It should be understood that proper nutrition is not a way to treat candidiasis. This is just a preventive measure. Therefore, at the first signs of the disease, it is better to consult a doctor who will prescribe effective treatment and give all the necessary recommendations, including nutrition for thrush.

¹ Lysenko O.V. To study the sensitivity to antifungal drugs of the microflora of patients receiving antibiotic therapy for a long time. // Journal “Medical Sciences”, Yekaterinburg, February 2016.

² Popova A.L., Dvoryansky S.A., Yagovkina N.V. Modern aspects of treatment and prevention of vulvovaginal candidiasis. // Vyatka Medical Bulletin, No. 4, 2013.

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Yeast-free diet: pros and cons

Beauty

Beauticians and gastroenterologists vying with each other recommend an antifungal (or yeast-free) diet – in their opinion, it improves skin condition and provides a burst of energy. Maria Chekalina verified from personal experience how justified this is.

org/Person”> Maria Chekalina

November 22, 2021

“It is indecent to look so good at the end of a working day! Your skin glows like you’ve just had a Cinderella Effect treatment. Come on, tell me what you are doing with yourself there, ”the facial massage specialist greeted me with these words. By that time, I had already been on the yeast-free diet for the third week. I first heard about it from Ekaterina Medvedeva, a cosmetologist at the Tori clinic: “I recommend this diet to patients who complain of acne, excessive dryness or oily skin, dermatitis, and swelling of the face and body.”

I’m interested. Every winter I am haunted by dermatitis, which disappears with the onset of a warm spring. I learned to live with it and speak openly about it, like Kim Kardashian about psoriasis or her sister Kendall Jenner about acne. But how I wanted to get rid of him! First of all, I studied the nuances of the menu: it is required to exclude flour and dairy products, alcohol and everything that contains sugar, including fruits and sweet vegetables. Products on the plate must be in an unfermented form (fresh, steamed, boiled, stewed), without sauces, marinades and preservatives. A similar diet is followed by model Rosie Huntington Whiteley, actresses Sienna Miller and Penelope Cruz. They are all clients of Hollywood naturopath Nygma Talib, author of Skin Youth Begins in the Gut. The Talib nutrition program is based on probiotics and a ban on gluten, sugar, alcohol, and dairy products. As a reward for dietary restrictions, the naturopath promises an even skin tone, getting rid of dark circles under the eyes, swelling and acne. “And, judging by her wards, she doesn’t cheat,” I thought.

The gluten-free wave of catering has survived and adapted to the keto menu, but the introduction to the yeast-free diet is yet to come.

A yeast-free diet would be more correctly called an antifungal diet. In the West it is known as the candida or anticandida diet. The main task of the diet is to restore the balance of the intestinal microflora by combating an excessive amount of Candida yeast-like fungus. “It lives on the mucous membranes of the body,” explains Elena Volodkina, a gastroenterologist and nutritionist at the Aging Control clinic. – And conceived by nature in order to process excess sugar in the intestines and control the balance of other fungi. However, after taking antibiotics or hormonal drugs, with malnutrition or severe stress, Candida overgrowth – candidiasis can begin. To many, this diagnosis is known as a banal “thrush”, but it happens that the fungus affects the skin, nails, mouth and intestines. To restore the balance of microflora, just drinking a course of antimycotics (antifungal drugs) is not enough. It is important to deprive Candida of food. And she eats everything that causes fermentation. Hence the whole list of “prohibited”.

Although the main goal of the yeast-free diet is not to lose weight, but to improve the intestines, its side effects are one better than the other: extra pounds go away, the skin begins to glow like a child’s, and good spirits do not fall around the clock even without coffee and matchalatte. “Most of my patients have already tried this diet,” says Dr. Medvedeva. – Positive results were noticed by everyone, and quite quickly. The quality of the skin has improved, the digestive system has worked like clockwork, bloating has disappeared (which is why it has become flat again) and edematous cellulite, which is observed in almost all women who regularly consume dairy products and sweets. One patient shared: “Thanks to this diet, I found out that I have slender legs!” And another went into remission with severe rosacea. To eliminate the placebo effect from the diet, I decided to turn to the numbers – to take tests before and after. I did a test for dysbacteriosis and a study of the microecology of the small intestine (analysis according to Osipov). She showed the results to gastroenterologist Elena Volodkina and received a treatment regimen for three months, which included a yeast-free diet, taking antimycotics and probiotics.

The difficulty was finding food in the city. In the KM 20 restaurant, it’s not so much the budget, but the waiters keep in mind the composition of each dish right down to the micro-ingredients and easily go to the point of eliminating something. In Coffeemania, you don’t even need to exclude anything from Bora Bora salad or quinoa with herbs. A wonderful discovery was the democratic cafe Bowlroom in Sytinsky Lane, where you can meet DJ Vitaly Kozak, designer Andrey Artyomov and the president of the Russian Condé Nast Anita Gigovskaya with her husband Vadim Yasnogorodsky at breakfast. Half of the dishes on the menu are designed as if the chef himself is following an antifungal diet. For example, bowls consist of meat, fish, vegetables, black rice, quinoa, and sauces are served separately. In other establishments, my dialogue with the waiters goes something like this: “So you don’t have anything at all?” – “Yes, I’m without everything.” If catering has survived the gluten-free wave and has already adapted to the keto menu, then acquaintance with the yeast-free diet is yet to come. I began to cook at home more often, or rather constantly, because it is impossible to track where what was added to the dish without looking into the pan. For example, in the “Azbuka Vkusa” I caught the seller that instead of soy milk without sugar, she pours lactose-free cow’s milk into my cappuccino: “Is there a difference?”

Reading labels in shops became my forced hobby. Surprise: sugar is added to most plant-based milks and even rubbed on lightly salted salmon. I came to visit with “my own”, having prepared it in advance or ordered it in a restaurant. All of life suddenly turned out to be subordinated to food and, to be honest, it was a torment. There were no disruptions. Going out with friends in Berlin, I could not resist two glasses of cold prosecco – the soul demanded a holiday. However, I prepared for this hooliganism by drinking in half an hour a sorbent prescribed by my humane doctor just for such a case. And the other evening I stole a tube of condensed milk from a friend’s plate.

“Rampant cravings for sweets are one of the symptoms of an overabundance of Candida in the intestines,” explains Dr. Harry König, head of the Brenners Park-Hotel SPA Baden-Baden. “Fungus colonies feed on sugar and begin to dictate your food preferences.” My salvation in search of a bright taste was spices and herbs – turmeric, paprika, curry, parsley, cilantro.

Ideally, of course, the food should be prepared by a chef, as in the center of Dr. König. Or at the Russian resort “First Line. Health Care Resort, where, upon request, all unnecessary products will be excluded from the menu. In both health resorts, they will be asked to pre-pass the necessary tests or present ready-made ones. At the Austrian clinics Vivamayr, whose detox programs are held in high esteem by actress Elizabeth Hurley and models Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss, the yeast-free diet is one of two nutrition programs. Here they teach not only what to eat, but also how – carefully and for a long time, chewing thirty or forty times. So that you have time to grind food before it gets inside, and feel full even from a small portion. It is recommended to do this upon returning to normal life. But how to introduce this habit into the schedule of social dinners and business meetings? Easily. Chew while the other is talking. And eat less, and earn the glory of a good interlocutor in an age when, from an overabundance of information and distracted attention syndrome, everyone interrupts each other.

And the feeling of satiety is especially important in the first days, when due to the lack of habitual tastes you begin to starve mentally. But I clearly remember the morning after the first two weeks of the diet, when I stood in front of the mirror and wondered: “Why the hell do I look so good if I don’t get enough sleep for several days, I sit at work until the night and feel like a zombie?” I had that same glass skin that makeup artists and cosmetic brands have been promoting for the past three years. Plus, it seemed that I put the threads – such was the lifting effect. No bags under the eyes and slight swelling of the face. Excess liquid left, and then the weight began to gradually decrease. There was a lot of energy. I forgot what permanent laziness and apathy in the spirit of “I don’t want anything” are. “Poor psycho-emotional state is one of the indicators of problems with the intestinal microflora,” comments Irina Strokovskaya, general practitioner, geriatrician, specialist in functional and anti-aging medicine at the Bellefontaine clinic. – The brain and intestines are like Siamese twins, they are formed in utero from one embryonic leaf. Therefore, with an imbalance in the intestinal microflora, changes in mood occur.

I had that same glass skin that makeup artists have been promoting for the past three years.

The impact of the gut on mood, immunity, and general health has been talked about and written about in the last couple of years. In 2017, the biomedical holding Atlas has a new direction in tests – Microbiota Genetics. On the Instagram of fitness blogger Natalya Davydova, an advertisement for Daigo began to appear – a kind of Japanese complex of lactobacilli that promises to rejuvenate the entire body through the intestines.

“The popularity of talking about the intestines is understandable, it happened against the backdrop of general problems with digestion (including due to the irrational use of antibiotics) and sleep,” continues Irina Afanasyevna. – And many people were puzzled by yeast-free nutrition as a way of recovery. This is not a trendy diet, but a method of treatment in the anticandida program. But the transition to such a diet, even for a short period, forms the right habits and returns to simple food, which many have forgotten about because of fast food, convenience foods, an abundance of sweets and preservatives.

Despite the fact that the yeast-free diet contains proteins, fats and carbohydrates, doctors do not recommend eating it on your own. “I would not recommend this diet to patients with diabetes, kidney disease, systemic connective tissue diseases,” says Ekaterina Medvedeva. “In this case, the diet should be prescribed by the attending physician.” “The yeast-free diet excludes some vegetables and most fruits from the diet, and they contain a huge amount of vital vitamins and minerals,” adds Elena Volodkina. – If a person with existing deficiencies adheres to such a restriction, then his condition will only worsen. Therefore, without a doctor’s prescription, everyone is at risk.” “If you have problems with the skin, immunity, then first it is better to check all the obvious causes of diseases, so to speak, of a higher order,” advises Anna Popenko, head of scientific research at the Atlas biomedical holding. – And only if they are not found, you should pay attention to such a diet. Without a prescription, it may be an unnecessary restriction. In addition, diversity in food helps maintain microbiota diversity.”

A yeast-free diet certainly works. It’s just important to understand why. In one case – because before her the person had the wrong diet, in the other – because the intestinal barrier was broken. “There is such a thing as an “excessively permeable gut,” says Vladimir Pilipenko, researcher at the Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology of the FGBUN “Federal Research Center for Nutrition and Biotechnology”. – If the function of the selective permeability of the intestine “jumps”, unnecessary substances (bacterial metabolites) enter the blood from it, which the body is forced to excrete through the skin. In this case, the appointment of a yeast-free diet allows this flow to be reduced, which is why a person sees improvements in the skin condition. But when you return to the previous diet, the problems will return. A yeast-free diet is justified if an allergy is established
for yeast. Otherwise, we needlessly deprive the body of resources and reduce the diversity of microflora in the gut. This is dangerous in relation to the risk of developing certain diseases. Therefore, instead of going on such a diet (by the way, there are no serious clinical studies behind it), I recommend getting examined by a gastroenterologist, assessing the efficiency of food absorption according to the coprogram, and performing a hydrogen-methane breath test with lactulose.