The Truth About Why You Get Yeast Infections

Yeast infections are a common condition, and everyone should be able to recognize the signs of such an infection. If you know what to look out for, you will be able to get treatment right away so that the infection does not become more serious. The following advice can help you out.

Try to incorporate a good amount of garlic into your diet during the course of the day. Garlic is a great antioxidant that can help fight off the yeast in your body. Simply consume garlic with your food or use it to cook to get it into your diet in the day and night.

You should avoid stress as much as you can to avoid getting a yeast infection. If you are stressed, your immune system suffers and you can be at greater risk for infections.

Dont douche. Although it may seem like "cleaning" the vagina would prevent yeast infections, the opposite is actually the case. Good bacteria is destroyed along with any bad bacteria. The inner lining of your vaginal wall is also flushed out in the douching process. This leaves your vagina susceptible to infections, both yeast infections and others.

If you have a yeast infection, you need to stop taking your birth control pills until it passes. The birth control pills will weaken your immune system and actually prevent your body from fighting it off. So try using alternative forms of contraception like condoms when you are having a yeast infection.

Exercise

Since yeast thrives in moist environments, it is imperative to stay as dry as possible at all times. If you have been swimming, change into dry clothing as quickly as possible. Furthermore, exercise can cause sweat and moisture to build up, so it is important to shower and change into clean underwear and clothing after a workout.

Wear breathable underwear, such as cotton, to minimize the chance of developing new yeast infections. Synthetic materials can trap moisture and yeast thrives in moist areas. Make sure to choose only 100 percent cotton, and change your underwear after periods of exercise or any other time you are prone to sweating. Dry means healthy and the goal is to remain as healthy as possible.

Get out of your sweaty work clothes as soon as you are able. Dampness can worsen or even cause yeast infections. If you are someone who works out, be sure to change out of your exercise clothes as soon as possible. Take a shower and dry off thoroughly before changing into something else.

Nutrition

Eat healthier foods. Studies have found that people who eat healthy are less at risk to develop infections. This is true for yeast infections as well. There are many positive advantages when it comes to eating healthy. Improving your nutrition could make yeast infections a much less common occurrence.

Many people are unaware that a poor diet can lead to increased frequency of yeast infections. Your body needs the proper fuel to keep it healthy, and if you are eating at the drive-thru every night, you are not getting the appropriate nutrition to keep your body healthy and fight off yeast infections.

Keep your immune system strong with plenty of sleep and proper nutrition. A lowered immune system can lead to an increase in all kinds of infections, including yeast growth. If you have diabetes or are undergoing chemotherapy, your immune system is lowered, and you may be more prone to yeast infections.

Once you are aware of the signs and symptoms of a yeast infection, you will be able to more easily recognize if you might be suffering from one. If you think you might be, you should talk to your doctor right away. This way, you can get the treatment you need to get rid of your infection.