Diet for Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis describes a type of vaginitis that produces a redness or swelling of the vagina often accompanied by discomfort, vaginal discharge and itching. A healthy vagina contains several different types of bacteria. Bacterial vaginosis, or BV, results when normally occurring bacteria proliferate. BV may cause a fishy smell, especially after sex. Antibiotics are typically prescribed for BV, but dietary changes may also be necessary in order to prevent it from becoming a chronic condition.

Lactobacillus Acidophilus

Bacterial vaginosis stems from an imbalance in the vaginal ecosystem 3. Eating foods that contain lactobacilli may bring the vaginal ecosystem back to a healthy and balanced state. In “The Health Professional’s Guide to Popular Dietary Supplements,” authors Shawn M. Talbott and Kerry Hughes note that lactobacillus acidophilus, or LA, is a healthy bacteria; the consumption of foods with LA has been linked to lower rates of BV. Yogurt, kefir and acidophilus milk are all potential sources of LA.

Garlic

Garlic contains natural antibiotic properties and for this reason is recommended to anyone who is prone to bacterial vaginosis. Jean Carper, author of “Food Your Miracle Medicine: Preventing and Curing Common Health Problems the Natural Way” maintains that garlic is effective on a wide range of bacteria. Garlic is recommended as a vaginal suppository and is also effective when eaten.

Foods to Avoid

In “The Gynecological Sourcebook,” M. Sara Rosenthal, Ph.D., explains that diet can play an important role in the management of bacterial vaginosis 4. Rosenthal emphasizes avoiding sugar. The authors of “Our Bodies, Ourselves” say consuming sugar can lead to a vaginal environment that encourages the growth of bacteria. It is also advisable to avoid caffeine, alcohol, foods that include:

• mold
  
• fermented foods
  
• processed foods
  
• those high in carbohydrate

Foods to Favor

A healthy diet leads to a stronger immune system and decreases the likelihood of contracting bacterial vaginosis.

Herbs

Echinacea can be made into a tea or a tincture. Bacterial-Vaginosis.com and Balch also recommend pau d’arco, which may also be made into a tea.