A lot of us have experienced a yeast infection (thrush) at some point. But how we can prevent this with how we eat? We explore some foods that will help fight off yeast infections and protect your vaginal health and balance.

1. Garlic

WHY

Garlic is anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and antibacterial, so is brilliant for preventing thrush. Allicin is a compound that forms when garlic is crushed or chopped. This compound prevents the overgrowth of fungi and bacteria, so is thought to protect against thrush. Allicin is damaged by heating — so for the best results it is best to eat garlic raw.

HOW CAN I INCORPORATE THIS INTO MY DIET

Make a raw garlic dressing. Crush or finely chop garlic cloves and mix with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs of your choice (we recommend rosemary). Add this to salads, cooked vegetables, or a cooked fish filet.

2. Pro-biotic rich foods that are also dairy-free

WHY?

Foods with a high probiotic content are great at protecting your microbiome from pathogens, inflammation and overgrowth of yeast.

WHAT FOODS?

Kimchi, miso, coconut kefir, sauerkraut

HOW CAN I INCORPORATE IT INTO MY DIET

Add a small chopped portion of kimchi or sauerkraut to stir fries, or salads.Add coconut kefir to your morning meal — smoothies, yogurt bowls, or as a porridge topping.

Miso paste is an easy way to add flavour and a health boost to your meals!

3. Ginger

WHY?

As well as being anti-inflammatory, ginger contains gingerol and shagelol, which are anti-fungal compounds that can inhibit yeast growth.

HOW CAN I INCORPORATE IT INTO MY DIET

Add a little ginger into your morning smoothies.Make your own ginger shots at home — using a blender to combine ginger with apple juice or lemon juice.

Grated ginger is a great addition to curries, stir fries, or blended into soups.

4. Apple cider vinegar

WHY

Apple cider vinegar has good anti-microbial properties, and so is often seen as a useful tool in preventing yeast infections and overgrowth.

HOW CAN I INCORPORATE IT INTO MY DIET

Mix up half a shot of lemon juice and half a shot of apple cider vinegar for a hardcore start to your day.

Apple cider vinegar is a lovely addition to a healthy coleslaw recipe. Finely chop red cabbage, red onions and carrots; and then mix apple cider vinegar, mustard, maple syrup, olive oil, and some salt & pepper; then pour this over the top.

5. Leafy greens & cruciferous vegetables

WHY?

These foods are brilliant for your good gut bacteria that help defend your body against yeast overgrowth.

WHAT FOODS?

Kale, brussels sprouts, broccoli, cabbage.

HOW CAN I INCORPORATE IT INTO MY DIET

Add kale to your breakfast smoothie.

Fry off some sprouts with pancetta for a seasonal side.

Roast some broccoli with other vegetables including peppers and sweet potatoes for a healthy medley.

By incorporating these foods into your diet more, you can work with your body to prevent and protect against thrush in a natural, healthy way!

For more diet, lifestyle, health and wellness tips, go explore the rest our blog!

Jessica Hobbis