How to Lower the Amount of Yeast in the Body

Among the delicate balances that exist in the human body is that between yeast (a fungus) and so-called "good" bacteria. Specifically, this bacteria--also known as "probiotic" bacteria--regulates the amount of yeast that grows in your mouth and digestive tract. Excessive yeast manifests itself in multiple forms. Yeast infections of the mouth or vagina expel a white, foul-smelling discharge, whereas intestinal yeast overgrowths can lead to comprehensive problems like food allergies and sugar imbalances. Lowering the amount of yeast in your body can help decrease the occurrence of these problems.

Instructions

• 1

  Eat yogurt on a regular basis. Yogurt contains natural bacterial cultures, which proactively regulate yeast and other fungus in the body, aiding digestion and preventing yeast infections from occurring. If you don't like the flavor of yogurt, blending a little of it into your fruit smoothie can allow you to reap its health benefits without tasting it.

• 2

  Limit the amount of carbohydrate-rich foods you consume. Carbohydrates, particularly "simply sugars" like those found in breads, desserts and candies, feed existing yeast in your digestive tract and sometimes ferment--as occurs in alcohol production--right in your digestive tract. By being prudent with the amount of carbohydrates you consume, you can "starve" this yeast of its lifeblood.

• 3

  Limit your use of antibiotics. By definition, antibiotics kill off bacteria--good and bad. When you feel ill, it can be tempting to self-medicate with antibiotics you have around the house, but it's important to take them only under the advisement of a doctor. When taking antibiotics, increase your regular intake of yogurt.

• 4

  Begin taking a natural antifungal, such as garlic, oil of oregano or citrus seed extract, from the natural section of your local pharmacy. If your yeast problem is relatively minor, going the natural route--along with changes to your diet--will likely remedy it sufficiently.

• 5

  See your doctor and have him prescribe you a prescription antifungal if your yeast difficulties persist after changing your diet and taking natural antifungals. If your problem is very severe, it may require intensive therapy to cure before you can begin undertaking less harsh preventive and therapeutic measures.