Methods to prevent a Yeast Infection

One of the biggest challenges in our modern fast paced lives is staying healthy. With the strain and stress of city life coupled with an unhealthy environment and sedentary lifestyle we are becoming increasingly susceptible to variety of ailments. Another cause is the unhealthy consumption of junk food which is increasingly becoming a regular part of our diet. One such ailment that millions of people suffer from all over the world is yeast infection more commonly referred to as “Candida Albicans”.

What is Candida?
Certain parts of the human body like the mouth and the pubic region are home to a large number of beneficial bacteria and fungi that help to ward off infections. However when there is an imbalance caused in the human body and the healthy bacteria is destroyed it leads to a surge in production of yeast in the human body. Some of the main reasons are sickness, excessive use of antibiotics unhealthy dietary habits and pregnancy etc.

Yeast infections can become a recurring problem despite treatment with antifungal creams and medicines. So the best option is to take preventive measures to ensure that it minimises the risk of an unhealthy increase of yeast in the body. There are certain types of food including yoghurt and probiotic dietary supplements, which are known to successfully combat the growth of unhealthy yeast within the body. Certain other measures that can be adopted to ward off a Candida infection are:

 Try not to wear clothes and under-garments that are tight-fitting and preferably made of cotton as it will allow better inflow. Tight fitting clothes made of synthetic materials promote dampness and moisture, which creates the ideal breeding ground for yeast infections. Women need to preferably avoid wearing synthetic pantyhose or leotards which will further exacerbate the risk of developing a yeast infection.

 In case you get caught in the rain or are sweating after a workout you need to change and get into dry and warm clothes at the earliest. Any damp or wet clothing will provide moisture that is the ideal breeding environment for yeast infections.

 Try to minimise the use of scented douches, tampons and deodorant sprays. Most of them are composed of certain chemicals and compounds that create an imbalance of bacteria, being detrimental to healthy bacteria in the body.

 After using the bathroom do not wipe from back to front as it could spread unhealthy bacteria.

 For those who are suffering from diabetes, it is vital to keep a check on blood sugar levels to prevent a risk of any type of yeast infection. There is a direct link between diabetes and yeast infections when the blood glucose levels are raised.

 Increase the consumption of fresh untreated yogurt and probiotic health supplements that contain friendly bacteria in the form of cultures of lactobacillus acidophilus. This is very effective in hindering the build-up of unhealthy yeast in the gut that can help to prevent yeast infections.