Yeast & Sugar Free Diet

People who suffer from candidiasis or frequent yeast infections sometimes try a yeast- and sugar-free diet in an attempt to limit their symptoms. This diet is sometimes called the candida diet, after the type of yeast it's meant to control. Don't rely on this diet in place of the treatment recommended by your doctor, as there isn't enough evidence to support this.

Foods to Eat

Nuts and seeds are OK, with the exception of peanuts and perhaps pistachios, depending on the version of the diet you choose.

Some versions of the candida diet allow for gluten-free grains, such as oats, rice and millet, while others don't allow any grains. Likewise, some say it is fine to eat fresh and frozen fruits, with the exception of melons and dried fruits, while others don't allow any fruit.

Foods to Avoid

Candida Diet & Soy

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You'll also need to avoid foods that contain any type of sugar, including honey and maple syrup as well as any ingredients that end in "ose." Don't drink alcohol, and limit processed foods. More strict versions of the diet have you avoid starchy vegetables, such as:

• potatoes
  
• corn
  
• as well as most
  
• if not all
  
• dairy products

Potential Benefits

Columbia University Health Services notes that the candida diet hasn't been tested for effectiveness in keeping your body's yeast levels in check 4. The University of Maryland Medical Center admits the potential for this diet to help people feel better but states that it isn't clear whether this is because it gets rid of yeast or because it causes people to eat healthier 3.

Limiting your sugar consumption may help you cut calories and reduce your weight and may also help lower your risk for heart disease, according to the American Heart Association 2.

Other Considerations

List of Yeast-Free Diet Foods

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Speak with your doctor or registered dietitian to make sure that the yeast-free and sugar-free diet you choose provides the nutrients you need.