Candida albicans is a naturally found yeast that lives in our body. It is very prominently found in the mouth, vagina, and gastrointestinal tract. Under normal circumstances, it doesn’t cause any problems and totally harmless. However, overgrowth of the yeast can lead to bloating, rashes, infections, fatigue, and many other problems.
An overgrowth of this yeast can occur due to numerous reasons such as stress, increased anxiety, impaired digestive system, alcohol consumption, poor diet, increased toxicity, etc…
To defend yourself from candida overgrowth you need to alter your dietary habits. High sugar intake, consuming sugary fruits, carbs, alcohol, dairy products, honey, and maple syrup can all trigger candida infection. If you are someone who frequently has to deal with candida outburst then try these 7 natural foods in your regular diet to fight back the condition.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil is a rich source of caprylic acid, capric acid, and lauric acid. All of these acids exhibit anti-fungal properties that keep a check on candida and other fungal growth in your body. Lauric acid found in coconut is popularly used to treat mouth sores and candida infections in the mouth.
Turmeric
The popular Indian spice is well known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties. It is very effective in inhibiting the growth of Candida albicans and protects your body parts from yeast or any fungal infestation. Apply freshly prepared turmeric paste made from organic turmeric powder over the vulnerable or infected areas of the skin, leave it off for 10 minutes and wash it using cool water.
You can also consume turmeric orally. Just add a pinch of turmeric to your salads, milk, and other food items.
Garlic
Allicin a popular chemical compound found in abundance in crushed or chopped garlic. Numerous studies have demonstrated the anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties of allicin. It is an effective remedy against candida overgrowth in the mouth. It cripples the ability of candida to attach itself to the cells lining the mouth.
Heating up garlic can potentially damage allicin and destroy its healing powers. It is best to consume garlic in its raw form to enjoy maximum benefits.
Ginger
Ginger contains two chemical compounds called ginger and shagelol in high quantities. Both of these compounds exhibit anti-microbial properties and said to inhibit the growth of candida. A study found that an antifungal cream with added ginger demonstrated enhanced healing capability with yeast infections over the same anti-fungal cream without any ginger.
Kimchi
A very popular fermented cabbage dish from Asia is rich in probiotics. Good bacterias present in kimchi are found to be very effective in protecting the colon from pathogens. Studies show kimchi is effective in alleviating symptoms of candida, and also prevent its overgrowth when consumed regularly.
Not to mention that kimchi contains ginger and garlic, both of which are very effective in fighting against the yeast overgrowth.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is acidic in nature and has antimicrobial properties, both of which can effectively inhibit candida overgrowth. Apple cider vinegar is a popular home remedy for yeast infections. A study showed that it is more effective in preventing candida overgrowth in the mouth over nystatin, an antifungal drug.
Kale
Kale is rich in fiber, low in calories, and it nourishes good bacterias in the gut, effectively preventing candida overgrowth when consumed regularly. Kale is believed to contain chemical compounds that have antimicrobial properties, and very effective in controlling candida overgrowth.