Candidiasis and Yeast Free Diet

Candida Albicans are microscopic fungal organisms that resemble yeast-like properties which are naturally found in warm, moistened mucous membranes such as the mouth, vagina, and intestinal tract of able-bodied people. Factors that affect growth of candida are regular consumption of processed meat products that contain food preservatives, use of oral contraceptives, chronic use of NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), unhygienic or multiple sexual practices, immune-compromised patients (having diabetes or AIDS), and stress, or any other causative factor that may weaken the body's defenses. However, an overproduction of such microorganisms may cause pathological diseases such as Candidiasis.

Candidiasis is an infection characterized by painful, inflamed, burning-like pruritus (itching) accompanied by white exudate (or cheese-like discharge), peeling, and easy bleeding on the affected site. Drug of choice for this type of disease could be benystatin or clotrimazole. For severe cases, amphotericin B or fluconazole may be given through oral, topical or anal drug administration.

In contrast, yeast free diets are used in conjunction with drug therapy to enhance treatment and prevent further spread of the harmful fungi. In other words, sticking to non-processed food varieties that includes all sorts of vegetables, refined vegetable oil, unprocessed seeds and nuts, eggs, whole grains, all kinds of beans, and uncured meat products. Likewise, yogurt can either be consumed orally or can be applied to affected areas to alleviate itch and burning sensation.

Nevertheless, certain dietary restrictions include foods that contain yeast - like plain and wheat breads, pastries, rolls and cookies. Moldy foods are also prohibited in this diet such as canned tomatoes, mushrooms, peanuts and pistachios, all forms of cheese, soy sauce, cured bacon and the like. Moreover, foods that contain sugar are also banned from this diet. Whereas, starchy food intake (corn and potatoes) may be limited to about 3-4 times a week the most.