There is no doubt yeast infections are unpleasant. The severity of symptoms like itching, burning, redness, swelling, pain and vaginal discharge can vary based on each individual case. Some yeast infections can be mild, whereas others are barely tolerable. With an estimated 75 percent of women experiencing a yeast infection in their lifetime, it’s smart to think ahead about vitamins to prevent the problem. Although there are other factors to a yeast infection besides your vitamin intake, incorporating these vitamins into your diet can help prevent and reduce yeast infection symptoms. Consult your physician before taking any type of dietary supplement.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is most helpful in the treatment of a yeast infection. If you’re already experiencing yeast infection symptoms, vitamin E can help you to reduce the swelling and irritation you may experience. Mustard greens, spinach, sunflower seeds, turnips and almonds are all rich in vitamin E.

Vitamin B-3

A recent study by the University of Montreal discovered that vitamin B-3 is helpful in treating and preventing fungal infections. Yeast infections occur when there is an overgrowth of the bacteria Candida within the vagina. The study found that a specific enzyme, Hst3, is crucial to the growth of Candida and vitamin B-3 helps to reduce the growth of this enzyme. Eat foods like meat, eggs, milk, cheese, dark leafy greens and beans to get more vitamin B-3 in your diet.

Vitamin C

When your immune system is weak, you are more likely to experience a yeast infection. Think of it like any other infection: When your body doesn’t have the strength to fight the Candida, bacteria will continue to grow. Regular intake of vitamin C can help you to keep your immune system strong and healthy. Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits and lemons are high in vitamin C. Other sources include tomatoes, figs, grapes, mangos, bananas and avocados.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A plays many roles in your body. It aids in the development of your teeth, skeletal structure and soft tissue. Vitamin A helps to maintain your reproductive system, and like vitamin C, vitamin A helps to keep your immune system running strong. To incorporate more vitamin A into your daily routine, begin by including vitamin A-rich foods into your diet. A few examples of foods containing high amounts of vitamin A are sweet potatoes, dark leafy greens, squash, apricots, cantaloupe and lettuce.