To avoid the proliferation of fungi in the intimate area it is important to have a healthy and balanced diet to avoid the alteration of the vaginal flora, as well as a correct hygiene.


Throughout their lives, most women develop different disorders, diseases and ailments that may appear as a result of the hormonal changes they go through during puberty and when they reach menopause.





Knowing this, it is normal that many feel some concern, especially in everything that has to do with intimate health, which is usually one of the most affected.


One of the most common and frequent female disorders are infections caused by fungi. It is a very annoying and sometimes painful disease, which develops due to the action of Candida albicans.


The vagina, as well as the mouth and digestive tract, have a humid environment in which this type of yeast lives. It is estimated that between 20% and 50% of healthy women have them present in their organism, being harmful only when something causes them to proliferate in large quantities.


What are the causes of yeast infections?

Yeast infections are triggered when there is an overgrowth of yeast. This usually occurs when there is some kind of disturbance in the vaginal flora, which plays a key role in acting as a protective barrier.


An imbalance of the vaginal flora can be caused by:



Excessive consumption of antibiotics.

Overweight and obesity.

Hormonal changes.

Diabetes.

Sexually transmitted diseases.

steroids

Wearing tight-fitting underwear made of material such as nylon or lycra, which traps moisture and heat.

Excessive or poor vaginal hygiene.

Use of vaginal soaps or deodorants.

Tampons and pads.


What are the symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection?

A yeast infection can be easily detected by the appearance of some bothersome symptoms that gradually increase. These include:


Thick, white, curd-like vaginal discharge.

Slight bready or yeasty odor.

Vaginal itching and burning.

Irritation and redness.

Pain during urination or intercourse.

Tips for preventing vaginal yeast

Although vaginal yeast can be treated with medications and some natural remedies, the best course of action is to adopt some simple habits to prevent its frequent occurrence.


The following tips will help to avoid altering the vaginal flora to prevent the growth of yeasts and other microorganisms that generate infection.


Healthy eating

A balanced diet rich in nutrients helps strengthen the immune system to achieve a more resistant body against the attack of fungi and bacteria.


For this specific case, the most recommended foods include:


Eggs.

Whole grains.

Legumes.

Nuts.

Lean fats.

Liver.

Pumpkin.

Green leafy vegetables.

citrus fruits

Good intimate hygiene

Woman wearing a bathing suit


Cleansing the "V" zone is a determining factor in the balance of the vaginal flora. If it is done in an exaggerated or deficient way, it can generate a strong alteration that diminishes its protective capacity.


It is very important to clean it well every day, using a neutral soap without any added deodorant.


It is also important to avoid excess humidity, since microorganisms proliferate more easily in this type of environment.


Avoid antibiotics

Exaggerated consumption of conventional antibiotics destroys good bacteria and alters the natural pH of the vagina and the body in general.


In case you have to take them, it is good to pay attention to their side effects and also try to look for other alternatives such as those of vegetable origin.


Consuming more probiotics

Probiotics are microbial organisms that are present in the digestive tract and the vagina. Their presence in some foods is a good way to provide them to the body when there is some kind of imbalance in the natural flora.



Known as "healthy bacteria" they help stop the growth of harmful organisms such as fungi and bacteria.


These types of cultures can be ingested through supplements or naturally occurring foods such as yogurt and fermented dairy products.


Beware of clothing

Clothing made of synthetic materials or that is too tight can create a warm, moist environment that is ideal for bacterial growth. It is best to choose clothing made of cotton, preferably with some type of ventilation.