Candida is the technical term defining an “overgrowth of yeast" in your body, and it is fungal in nature. If you are suffering from Candida, or recurrent yeast infections, you will benefit from a strict Candida diet. The purpose of the diet is to starve the Candida fungus and clear it out of your system. This is a very simple yet restrictive diet that is to be combined with an herbal cleansing program.
No Yeast
Candida feeds on yeast. Yeast is an active ingredient in many different foods, with bread being the most obvious. You must become label-conscious. If yeast is an ingredient, then it best to avoid that food. Beer is made with brewer's yeast, so this is on the “no” list as well.
No Sugar
Candida feeds on sugar. All sugars need to be eliminated, including fruit juices and fruits that are high in sugar content. This includes bananas, red apples, peaches and pears. No canned fruits or dried fruits either as they are very high in sugar.
No Dairy
No milk, cheese of any kind, creamers, ice cream or yogurt. A small amount of yogurt can be permitted in later stages of your Candida diet. Speak to your nutritionist or health care provider.
No Moldy, Fermented or Fungal Foods
Moldy foods like peanuts, pistachios, cantaloupe and cheese need to be avoided. Fermented foods like vinegar, wine, all alcohols and pickled condiments need to be avoided as well. Mushrooms are a fungus, so anything in the mushroom family must be avoided.
Drinks
Water is an essential part of your Candida diet. It will help to flush out toxins that are produced when Candida begins to die off in your system. You can also drink herbal teas and organic cranberry juice diluted with water and sweetened with xylitol or stevia. Coffee is very acidic and can create a breeding ground in your system for Candida to flourish.
Vegtables
Fresh vegetables will be a mainstay while you are on a Candida diet. Make sure to have plenty of vegetables available to snack on and prepare for meals. Potatoes are allowed after you are on the diet for two weeks. Sweet potatoes are okay at any time.
Fruit
Yeast Infection Advisor states that some approved fruits for the Candida diet are green apples, berries, avocados, grapefruit, lemons and limes. Avocado is another a very good source of good fat during this diet.
Protein
Another staple of your Candida diet or cleanse is protein. Beef, chicken and fish are good choices. Stay away from pork as it can have parasites that can interfere will the Candida cleansing process. Dairy-free, sugar-free and yeast-free whey protein can be beneficial if you are hungry and seeking extra protein in your diet. Eggs are an alkalizing food and can be used in many recipes while on the Candida diet.
Whole Grains
There is a difference of opinion amongst practitioners as to whether or not whole grains such as oats, millet, cornmeal, amaranth and brown rice are acceptable. Ask your practitioner what method he feels is best for you.
