Candida Foods That Feed Yeast Infections
Candida (often misspelled Candita) thrives in more acidic environments and where there is an adequate food supply with sugars being their primary food source. You could get really picky here and a Candida Diet Foods list can’t possibly cover all foods out there.
However, a rule of thumb would be to avoid sugary and acidic foods. The Western Diet is full of sugary and acidic foods so it’s no wonder so many people are suffering from Candida.
The below list includes Candida Diet Foods that should be eliminated or greatly reduced. Almost all processed foods should be avoided because they usually are full of sugar, refined carbs, and preservatives.
- Aged cheeses
- Alcohol (Including beer, wine, spirits, and liqueurs)
- Chocolate
- High sugar dried and fresh fruits
- Fermented foods
- Mushrooms
- Vinegar
- Glutenous foods (wheat, rye, barley) including pasta
- All sugars, honeys and syrups (that includes any ‘ose’, like lactose, sucrose etc)
- Foods that contain yeast or mold
- Sweetened yogurt
- Sweetened Coffee, fruit teas, and soft drinks
- Condiments that contain sugar and vinegar (ketchup, pickles, steak sauce etc.)
- Vegetables like beetroot, canned tomatoes, carrots, cucumber skins, potato skins
- Meats that come from animals fed antibiotics and hormones
- Processed frozen dinners and quick meals
- White Rice
- Artificial Sweeteners- Sucralose, aspartame, Ace-K, sugar alcohols, saccharine
- Milk
Click here to learn about the only clinically proven holistic Candida diet 5 step program.
Candida Foods That Help Eliminate Yeast Infections
Some Candida diet foods can help slow or inhibit candida growth. Also, yeast infection foods that strengthen the immune system and promote healthy bacterial growth are generally recommended because overgrowth occurs often after immune systems are compromised and after runs of antibiotics.
It’s helpful to take a good Candida Diet Foods list with you to the grocery store so that you can make wise choices when shopping. Candida Diet foods don’t have to be bland and boring, but there are a lot of great foods to choose from and recipes to try. These Candida Diet Foods help eliminate Candida albicans from your body.
Green leafy Vegetables (including plenty of raw garlic),- Protein foods (beef, chicken, eggs, fish that are antibiotic and hormone free)
- Live yogurt cultures (both dairy and non-dairy,) whey, acidophilus (non-sweetened types of yogurt)
- Green Algae (such as chlorella)
- Nuts and seeds
- Healthy oils (olive, canola, fish)
- Non-glutenous grains (like millet, brown rice, rice bran, and oat bran)
- Some fruits (10%) such as black berries, blueberries, melon and other low sugar high nutrient fruits
- Plenty of Water
- Unsweetened Taheebo Pau d’Arco tea
- Olive leaf supplement
- Pumpkin skin
- Virgin Coconut Oil
- Maqui Berry
- Spirulina
- Quinoa
- Fresh Avocado
- Manuka Honey
- Rooibos Tea
- Lentils
- Black beans
- Stevia
- Unsweetened hemp or almond milk
By incorporating these immune strengthening Candida diet foods into your diet and eliminating the Candida Diet foods that feed yeast infections, you can be well on your way to being yeast infection free for good by following a healhy Candida diet full of health promoting foods that are good for your body.
See Also
Click here to read our mini reviews of 9 Pre-made Candida diet programs that do most of the work for you by incorporating the above foods into an easy to follow plan that includes many other strategies for healing.
Sources:
Candida Diet: Foods to Consume and Foods to Avoid
Everydiet.org
November 22nd, 2011 at 09:27
I started the candida diet 7 weeks ago- thought i was good after 2 weeks (silly me) slipped up a bit but have been loyal ever since for over a month. I’m taking a pro-biotic,kyolic cleanse, nutri west total yeast redux yeast cleanser and enzymes. When do I stop taking the pills or cut them down. Can I take too many?
November 22nd, 2011 at 11:52
Hi Mary, I’m not familiar with those pills and really don’t advocate the use of al-in-one yeast fighting supplements, but a holistic healthy diet approach.
November 22nd, 2011 at 11:58
Hi Megan, Lactose isn’t “alive” therefore, it can’t be killed but cooking does break down lactose in to simpler sugars, but the sugars are still there. It’s not about being lactose intolerant, but about feeding yeast with all the sugars that are in milk.
November 30th, 2011 at 20:35
I have problems with candida also. But it concerns me that proper soaking in salt or whey of the whole grains aren’t mentioned. After 3 years of being vegetarian and 80% raw, my teeth started deteriorating from the phytic acids in a lot of these foods and the lack of protein in the diet. I added in raw goats milk, but they just don’t seem to be getting any better. I’ve read about many vegetarians after so many years there teeth and skin start to really break down. Now my face breaks out whenever I eat any kind of meat or fried foods (even though I’m using avacado oil) I feel like my whole system has been messed up, my digestion is especially sluggish. I tried following recipes with Sally Fallon (with Nourishing Traditions) But I just broke out really bad. I did read about a lot of people who started taking kombucha and fermented foods and it really helped there intestines heal. Not sure what to do.
December 6th, 2011 at 06:21
Is it okay to have rolled oats on the candida diet?
I’ve been making my own organic plain yogurt, but someone today told me I shouldn’t be having it, because of the sugar content. Should I not have yogurt at all?
I also have been making kefir. Should I not have kefir anymore?
December 6th, 2011 at 13:29
Hi Susan, Some oats are fine. yogurt does have some natural sugar and in my opinion the probiotic benefit outweighs the slight risk from the sugar. Kefir actually has bacteria as well as yeast cultures in it. For some people the yeast cultures actually help. It would depend on your yeast sensitivity really. I plan to write a detailed article about Kefir this week.
December 7th, 2011 at 10:30
Thank you for answering my questions yesterday. I forgot to ask you about xylitol. It this a safe sweetener to use? And does it really help get rid of candida?
December 7th, 2011 at 11:06
Hi Susan, No Problem, Xylitol a sugar alcohol and yeast doesn’t metabolize it well, so some should be fine i.e sugarless gum… As far as getting rid of it no, it just doesn’t encourage candida’s growth. In food applications stevia is probably a better choice.
December 12th, 2011 at 00:50
Thank you, so much useful information. What about prune juice to cleanse the system?
December 13th, 2011 at 12:53
Hi Hassan, No prune juice is high and sugar and candida can adhere to the walls of the intestine so I wouldn’t recommend that approach.
December 14th, 2011 at 08:21
Hi,
Very GREAT and useful site, thank you! My 2 yr. old grandaughter has been fighting a nasty yeast infection for a month now. Drs. keep giving her an RX cream or having us use over counter jock itch cream…nothing is helping!! She is a milk addict, I’m sure this must be contributing to the problem. Any specific suggestions for little children?
Thanks!
December 14th, 2011 at 09:57
Hi Cindy, Yes the milk… that’s probably the number one culprit. can you switch her to a low sugar alternative? Almond perhaps?
December 15th, 2011 at 07:02
Hi,
How often should I rotate the antifungal I’m taking? How many antifungals should I take at once? When is the best time to take a probiotic? On the bottle it says to take on an emty stomach, but I started to have heartburn and I think it’s from taking the probiotics on an empty stomach. How do I know if I’m taking too much probiotics? Can excess amounts of b.lactis cause heartburn? I’m sorry I have alot of questions?
December 15th, 2011 at 12:42
Hi Susan, How about a natural probiotic like Kefir? It’s great and tastes like buttermilk. I thought the whole point of the Candida diet was to avoid antifungals? You’ll have to ask your doctor or pharmacist about that one, sorry.
December 27th, 2011 at 14:27
First i would like to say that this is the most accurate information and appreciate the detail list of foods you have mentioned. I happen to have yiest infection due antibiotics i was taking. Once i put myself on a diet for a 2 weeks i tend to feel better however i still get a burning sensation. Ob/gyn told me to go back after 2 weeks and if i still have the symptoms they will prescribe Diflucan for 6 months. I do not want to be on the pill for that long. Do you think i should just follow the diet and wait till my ph level sorts itself out? Or take the pill since i still have the symptoms. Your help is greatly appreciated. Thanks!!
December 28th, 2011 at 09:54
Hi Silvia, Thanks for your compliments. I would recommend the diet and natural treatments that can relieve the symptoms. It will take a lot longer than 2 weeks to find lasting relief. You really don’t want to be on Diflucan that long if it’s avoidable and I think it is.
January 12th, 2012 at 10:26
hello
I was diagnosed with pityorsporum foliculitis five years ago , it started on my chest and has recently spread over my face! I have tried eveything and feel terribly low . I have started this diet and cant believe how quickly my symptons have deteriated BUT they have started to come back after 4 weeks . is theer any thing you could advice me to try that is an extrem anti fungel ? I just want to beat this as i am a young mum who wants to start living again , thank you
January 14th, 2012 at 11:37
Hi, I was diagnosed with candida 5 years ago and was refered to a nutritionist through my Doctor (I’m in the uk) I got it under control eventually but had another break out last year and am struggling more this time. Mainly due to doing it on my own but also party because there is so much MORE information out here now. I know it sounds ridiculous as info is arming, but before organic no added sugar cornflakes were ok (I realise a little complex to digest) as was organic rice milk derived from brown rice. Reading through the comments above has this changed? And is milk and cheese ok now, where it wasn’t before? I have continuously taken probiotics for the last 5 years although right now I’m taking three different types each containing at least three strains, should I be holding off until I’m further along the diet? And what about prescribed anti-fungals such as Diflucan (fluconazole) I am on goldenseal, three lac, garlic oil and two other probiotics but am considering getting a prescription for the above as I’ve read it can help? I know natural is best but I’m thinking due to the recurrance my candida could probably do with a severe kick up the arse.
Also I just have to share, it seems so much harder to stick to this time round, I’m falling off the wagon so to speak continuously.
However I feel better for confessing that last bit how ever and am determined to start a fresh tomorrow.
Sorry for the deluge of info and great site, although it’s taken me ages to find you.
Thanks
January 20th, 2012 at 04:49
Hi,
Can I drink gluten free beer. Is wine OK – as I read somewhere that there is no gluten in it. And can I drink coffee?
Thanks for your help
Gary
January 20th, 2012 at 12:39
Hi Gary, generally there aren’t recommended because both beer and wine are made by using yeast which can lead to overall yeast sensitivity issues. They should be totally eliminated for the first 2 months for sure. The coffee debate rages on, but I think a cup a day is within reason. http://www.candidafood.com/caffeine-and-candida-can-i-have-my-coffee-and-tea/
January 22nd, 2012 at 14:50
Hi,i was on some antibiotics a couple of weeks ago and i believe it may have giving me a yeast infection, but i was unsure. Just to be on the safe side the doctor told me to try the over the counter monistat and i was unsure that worked, so i ask them to prescribe me some diflucan. How will i know if its completley gone away? Can i eat Grits, cereal even if its 2%milk, shrimp,potatoes,pancakes,noodles,tacos, packaged stir frys?These are all of my weaknesses? Your feedback will be greatly appreciated, thanks!
January 23rd, 2012 at 06:11
Hi Bee, I think you should spend some time reading over my site. You’ll learn a lot and your concerns will be addressed:-)
January 25th, 2012 at 12:27
How about that pill Rephresh ProB? Do you recommend it to balance yeast and bacteria?
January 26th, 2012 at 12:14
Hi TRL, In general I think natural whole food probiotics are better than a pill form.. Try kefir, it’s amazing. http://www.candidafood.com/the-power-of-kefir-for-an-anti-candida-diet/
January 31st, 2012 at 00:33
I have been following this diet for a year and it has changed my life as I was suffering from infections sometimes twice a month. However, I find that anytime I slip or once in a while treat myself to a glass of wine and a slice of pizza…I get another infection. Does this mean I just haven’t been strict enough for a long enough duration? Lastly, I was thinking about seeing a nutritionist for this issue but they are not cheap…would you recommend this or should I just continue with diet since it does work? Thanks so much:)
February 3rd, 2012 at 12:37
Hi Jenn,
Sounds like you may have a yeast allergy or sensitivity. I would have to have a better understanding of your general diet before I could make a recommendation.
February 6th, 2012 at 10:31
Hey ho.Great information on this website thank you!!I have a few questions I was hoping you could help me with.I’ve had candida for a long time but only put 2 and 2 together a month ago. I’m almost 2 weeks into cleanse.feel great.When would you recommend me starting probiotics? How long after then, do I begin the anti-fungal (I’ve oil of oregano)? or do I need more than that? Is it okay to eat probiotic yoghurt during the cleanse stage? Thank you so much.
February 6th, 2012 at 15:32
Hi Eleanor, Glad you’re feeling better. You can begin probiotics and I would recommend kefir also slowly add the herbs to avoid severe die off symptoms.
http://www.candidafood.com/the-power-of-kefir-for-an-anti-candida-diet/
http://www.candidafood.com/5-great-candida-fighting-herbs/
February 6th, 2012 at 22:55
Here’s a run down of my general diet. I work nights so breakfast is my big meal: organic egg omlette with onion or garlic, spinach,tom’s avocado and sometimes refried beans, sea salt. If it’s a rainy day I will toast yeast free bread with small amount of natural peanut butter. Lunch I usually will just have a plain chobani yogurt with a sprinkle of rolled oats or make a shake with yogurt, ice, plain sugar free soy or water, spoonful of peanut butter or frozen black berries. Dinner is usually salmon, some sort of meat, veggies, brown rice, sweet pot., and lots of salads & evoo, sea salt. I will snack on cashews or almonds, hummus and raw veggies or bean chips. I drink water, decaf tea, roois bois tea, and coffee w/dash of cream and my manuka honey. I take a pro-biotic, fish oil, and vitamins.
February 9th, 2012 at 01:56
Thank you so much from the quick reply. One more thing, Could you recommend the best type of Stevia please and thank you. I’m hoping to order it from the US to Europe as we don’t stock it. There’s so many products out there. What is made from?I hope to use it mostly for baking later down the road. Also Is stewed rhubarb ok to eat? Thanks again,this info is invaluable. all the best
February 9th, 2012 at 17:14
Hi Eleanor, Just avoid stevia that contains fillers like dextrose.
February 12th, 2012 at 22:13
Hi I’m sorry…but I was looking for some more insight on my diet…Posts #375 and #379 are both me. If you get the chance… you thought I might have a yeast allergy but you needed more info on my general diet. And I was wondering if seeing a nutritionist would be helpful? Thank you..you have been very helpful!:)
February 13th, 2012 at 13:06
Hi Jenn,
I would cut out the manuka honey and sweet potato for now.. also add in some recommended supplements. I think it’s worth getting yeast infection no more… It has a wealth of information, 1 on 1 support for the fraction of the cost of a nutritionist. I can’t think of anything a nutritionist would tell you that isn’t in YINM.. plus probably a lot nutritionists wouldn’t know.
February 13th, 2012 at 21:11
Oh no I have to give up the Manuka? OK…Thank you for your help…I will do that.
March 14th, 2012 at 08:25
Hello,
Are the organic oats and Gluten free Mayo OK? many thanks.
March 15th, 2012 at 15:17
Hi Kate, Go for organic steel cut oats and Mayo is a bit iffy because of the vinegar… perhaps if you make your own using coconut oil and braggs apple cider vinegar and no sugar you would be ok.
March 26th, 2012 at 07:45
Thank you so much for this information. It is wonderful. I have read on some websites that inserting a clove of garlic in the vagina can provide quick relief — would this be more effective than just eating raw garlic (which i do, every morning, in my yogurt). Thanks again!!
April 3rd, 2012 at 05:44
Thank you so much for your site! Very helpful. I wanted to ask you about my diet. In the mornings,I have steel cut oats with unsweetened almond milk that I made the night before. I warm it back up and add 3-4 strawberrys. For lunc and dinner i try to eat 1/4 grains, 1/4 meat, 1/2 veggies. All of which I cook the night before for dinner and have leftovers for lunch at work. I eat chicken, lentils, brown rice, broccoli, and green beans. on the weekends,I make some of the meals you published, but during the week, does that diet look alright? Is heating things back up about15 hours after you cook it bad? Its impossible for me to really cook at work. Thank you so much!
April 3rd, 2012 at 07:35
You’re Welcome Sarah. That looks pretty good. Perhaps switch out the strawberries for blackberries and I would alternate a high carb (oatmeal breakfast) with a high protein breakfast. The main thing to consider is whether or not your meal plan is working… If it is leave it, but if not make some adjustments.
April 11th, 2012 at 16:14
I have yeast intolerance. My dietist told me not to eat any fermented food. Since yoghurt is fermented, can I eat it?
April 11th, 2012 at 16:19
Hi Boran, plain yogurt is allowed, but kefir is better.
April 17th, 2012 at 18:49
Hi, thank you for this extensive & user-friendly site
.
I have been on an ACD for 6 weeks now & feel great, with minimal ‘die off’ reactions (since week 3 taking herbal antifungals & detox supps. + diegstive support & gut recolonisation, occasional bowel flush & liver flush coming up soon )
Can you please explain to me why cucumber skins are not allowed on the ACD?
Also, is the main issue with canned tomatoes to do with preservatives used such as citric acid (derived from yeast fermentation)?
Are grains such as kamut & spelt allowed at some point, perhaps in limited amounts to replace gluten-based flours/bread/pastas for ever?
Lastly, at what point are legumes/beans allowed & are some preferable to others?
Many thanks & kind regards.
April 18th, 2012 at 12:28
Hi Deziree, Thank you
Yeast live naturally in and on the soil..so cucumbers could contain a lot of yeast since they lay on the soil. Organic, no sugar added canned tomatoes are fine. Alternate grains are ok, but use the ones with the lowest GI index. Again legumes/beans that have a low GI are the best. My preferences are lentils and black beans. All the best 
April 18th, 2012 at 12:42
Hi and thank you for all of the information! I was curious about cinnamon. I love it, but is it allowed?
April 18th, 2012 at 13:44
Hi Tammy, Thanks for visiting! Not only is it allowed, but it could even help eliminate Candida.. I need to write an article about it, but in the meantime check this out http://www.healthdiaries.com/eatthis/10-health-benefits-of-cinnamon.html
April 23rd, 2012 at 19:38
Wow, thank you so much! I love cinanamon, now I love it more! I have another question about kefir. I am completely new to it (never heard of it until researching candida)…and then I came across some in fresh market. I eat organic greek yogurt and it usually lists about 3 probiotic cultures. I came across this kefir and it has 12. The only problem is it has 20 sugars per serving (it is blueberry flavored). Its by Lifeway. Is that good to drink or should I find a plain or original version, which Im sure has less sugar!
Also, Im thinking about growing my own from a starter kit. I saw there is a such thing as one you can make with water. Would that be a good choice?
Thank you so much!
April 24th, 2012 at 04:57
Hi Tammy, I use plain Lifeway all the time, but starting your own would definitely be cheaper in the long run. The power of Kefir
April 29th, 2012 at 19:22
Thank you so much again, I ordered my grains. I found the unsweetened kind at publix actually, but its expensive. I saw on the link that you said what you drank was lactose free. Is this because you drink goats milk or coconut milk and I guess it doesnt have lactose? Or does the bacteria actually eat the lactose and produce more bacteria before you drink it? Sorry Im so new to all of this!
April 30th, 2012 at 07:20
Hi Tammy, Great, I hope you like it. The bacteria digests the lactose and breaks it down to simple sugar of which there is very little.
Some people use coconut milk to use with the starter culture which has added benefits against Candida.