Eliminate Chronic Yeast Infections

Yeast infections are extremely common, with up to 75% of women estimated to experience them in their lifetime. Yeast is normally present in the body in small amounts, and is kept in check by beneficial bacteria. Certain changes to the internal environment such as increased vaginal pH, hormone imbalance, elevated sugars, or compromised beneficial bacteria, can allow yeast to overgrow into an active infection. Natural treatment for recurrent yeast infections involves determining and addressing the root cause of overgrowth, eradicating current infections with dietary changes and herbal antifungals, repopulating the microbiome with beneficial strains of bacteria, and maintaining remission with diet and lifestyle modifications.

 Eradicating Active Infections

Yeast thrives on sugar. Limiting refined sugar consumption is essential in combating yeast overgrowth. Other foods to reduce include risen breads and fermented foods, which also contribute to yeast growth. A temporary elimination of these foods may be necessary to eliminate an active infection, with a less restricted long-term dietary plan set in place to prevent recurrence. There are several botanical medicines that are effective in combating yeast that can be used along with dietary modifications for eliminating the active infection.

Nourish the Microbiome

The microbiome is composed of trillions of microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, and fungi that reside within the human body. A vital piece in preventing yeast infections is supporting the microbiome with certain foods and beneficial bacteria that help prevent yeast overgrowth. Certain strains of Lactobacillus are helpful in preventing yeast overgrowth, and can be taken orally or used as vaginal suppositories.

Prevent Recurrence

In addition to resolving an active yeast infection, the root cause behind the yeast overgrowth must be investigated in order to prevent recurrent infections. Diet plays a major role in feeding yeast and determining the state of the microbiome, and must be explored in depth. Hormone imbalance or use of oral contraceptives can affect the pH of the vaginal tract, which plays a role in maintaining a lower yeast population. Immune function plays a role as well, and must be supported appropriately for the body to effectively ward off infections. The underlying causes of chronic yeast infections should be explored for each individual in order to effectively eliminate active infections and prevent future overgrowth.

Disclaimer: this information is meant to be general and for informational purposes only. It is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a licensed healthcare practitioner for personal medical care and prior to starting new treatment.