Food For Vaginal Health? Eat This NOT That?
Are you prone to yeast infections or urinary tract infections?
Hi ladies, let’s try to make some dietary changes to maintain the proper pH balance, fighting infections, alleviating dryness for the sensitive areas.
1. Eat this: PROBIOTICS!
A healthy population of “good” bacteria can help keep the bad microorganism that caused vaginal infections such as yeast and bacteria at bay. You can re-establish the healthy flora by eating probiotics foods like plain yogurt, tempeh, kimchi and miso. Lactic acid that produces by good bacteria may keep the pH of vaginal in the acidic range, driving down the risk of yeast and other types of infection.
Not that: SUGAR!
Yeast and bacteria absolutely love sugar! Instead of consuming sugar-packed food such as cookies, cakes and sugary drink, choose foods that contain low or no sugar likes nuts and whole grain foods. Restrict your sugar intake to no more than 5 teaspoons or 20g for adults. Avoid food that contain yeast such as bread and beer which may promote yeast growth.
2. Eat this: CRANBERRIES
Cranberry contains a compound called proanthocyanidin, which prevents bacteria from binding on urinary tract wall and flush out bacteria to prevent or ease urinary tract infection (UTI). Drink 8 glasses of water a day to flush out waste is important for maintaining a healthy vaginal environment.
Not that: SWEETENED CRANBERRY JUICE
Choose cranberry products that do not contain added sugar because it will make you more susceptible to infections.
3. Eat this: FOODS HIGH IN VITAMIN C
Strawberries, oranges, vegetables are high in Vitamin C. It is an important factor to up-lifting the immune system and fight infections. Regular consumption of foods high in Vitamin C can help reducing infection.
Not that: FOODS HIGH IN REFINED CARBS
Cakes, biscuits, white rice, noodles, crackers, pies are examples of refined carbs. Taking this will spike up your blood glucose and increase risk for bacterial vaginosis and yeast infection.
The Must-Have? WATER!
Having sufficient water is one of the best things you can do for good vaginal health. Hydration is the key for proper functioning of all cells. Sufficient water intake increases lubrication, it also allows secretions to be released for proper pH balance. Drinking more water can also help to flush out bacteria from the urinary tract, minimizing chances of infection.
Excessive coffee and alcohol can irritate bladder and also causing dehydration. If you are prone to vaginal infection or urinary tract infection, minimize the intake!
If your vagina has a strong or unpleasant odor or discharge, see your doctor or gynaecologist. Avoid frequent douching or harsh soaps or cleansers, this can change the vagina’s pH levels, reducing acidity and increasing the bacteria growth that leads to infections.
