Diet to Help Fungus Infections

Fungal infections result from the growth of fungi in various places on the human body, from skin and nails to lungs and blood. Yeast infections and athlete's foot are examples of fungal infections. Fungal infections can range from mild to serious and can affect people of any age although they are more common in older populations with weakened immune systems. Fungal infections can be persistent and reoccurring and can be difficult to treat. Those suffering from fungal infections can improve their symptoms by following a specialized diet.

Treating Fungal Infections

• A magic cure for fungal infections doesn't exist, and diet alone isn't going to rid you of your symptoms forever; however, nutritionists believe that a diet including and excluding certain types of foods may help to reduce fungal infection symptoms and prevent future outbreaks. Foods containing sugar, yeast, dairy, wheat and caffeine are believed to aggravate pre-existing fungal conditions and promote the growth of new fungus. Alcohol and nicotine are also culprits that create a desirable environment for fungus to form, and they further exacerbate the problem by weakening the immune system so that it cannot fight off infection. People who have a tendency toward fungal infection should reduce or avoid these foods and substances.

Garlic

• Certain foods are thought to inhibit the growth of fungus in the human body, and people prone to fungal infections may find it helpful to increase consumption of these substances. Garlic is well known for its anti-fungal properties and may help to prevent fungal infections. Consume garlic fresh in prepared foods, or supplement it using garlic pills available in any nutrition or health foods store.

Oregano

• Oregano also has anti-fungal properties, so include it in the anti-fungal diet. Most people are familiar with Italian seasoning, which is oregano marjoram, but oregano vulgare is the form which is more potent and effective in treating fungal infections. Oregano vulgare comes in an oil which you should take in small amounts; a few drops diluted in water is sufficient.

Plant Tannins

• Plant tannins, such as those founds in the skins of grapes that give red wine its color and sharp taste, have proven to have powerful anti-fungal properties. Tannins come in several forms and are available at health food and supplement stores. They also come in concentrated and isolated forms.