Thrush is a medical condition caused by Candida albicans. This yeast-shaped fungus normally lives in the mouth, throat, and digestive tract. The risk of suffering from the various types of thrush, such as jock’s itch, athlete’s foot and vaginal infection, increases due to the sudden rise in the population of Candida in the body. This is triggered by factors including a weak immune system, medications, pregnancy, and smoking. The changes in diet and wrong choice of foods may also lead to more severe conditions, especially when suffering from oral thrush.
Foods to Avoid with Oral Thrush
1. High sugar fruits
Fruits that contain high amounts of sugar are a good source of food for Candida. Avoid eating high sugar fruits, especially when they are converted to dried fruits and fruit juices. The dried fruits such as raisins and dried cranberries contain higher sugar as compared to their original form since the process of drying can intensely increase its sweetness. Besides, fruit juices already lose their natural fibers, leading to the slow absorption of sugar in the body, which in turn leads to the increase in the blood sugar levels.
High sugar fruits that should be avoided include:
- Bananas
- Dates
- Grapes
- Mango
2. Glutenous grains
Glutenous foods are the common cause of allergies and sensitivities. They can aggravate the conditions related to Candida by causing irritation and weakening in the walls of the intestines. People suffering from Candida problems should stay away from these gluten-rich foods and instead, opt to include non-glutinous pseudo-grains in their diet.
Glutinous grains that should be avoided include:
- Wheat
- Barley
- Rye
- Spelt
3. Toxic meat and fish
As one of the foods to avoid with oral thrush, pork should be avoided since they contain parasites and retroviruses which are harmful to the digestive system. These organisms may survive even after properly cooking and may also cause a problem if over-cooked due to the carcinogenic components. Processed meats should also be avoided since they contain dextrose, sugars, sulfates, and nitrates which can lead to Candida imbalance and weakened gut and immune system.
A large variety of fish should be avoided since they contain a high amount of heavy metals such as mercury and contaminants. These fishes tend to live longer and spend more time swimming with the polluted environments.
Toxic meat and fish that should be avoided include:
- Pork
- Processed meats
- Tuna
- Swordfish
4. Dairy products
Some dairy products contain high amounts of sugar, in the form of lactose and casein, making them more difficult to digest in the body. There are dairy products that contain added sugars and sweeteners, making them one of the foods to avoid with oral thrush. Some dairy foods undergo several processes which damage their original composition. These modified structures are also not recommended for consumption since they are not designed to fit the needs of the body.
Dairy products that should be avoided include:
- Milk
- Yogurt
- Cheese
- Whey isolate
5. Nuts and seeds
Moldy nuts and seeds should be avoided since they contain high amounts of molds that can irritate the gut. They can also lead to inflammation and immunity deficiencies in people with Candida problems due to their higher sensitivities to molds.
Moldy nuts and seeds that should be avoided include:
- Peanuts
- Pistachios
- Walnuts
- Cashews
6. Condiments
A large number of condiments and salad dressings contain high amounts of hidden sugar. This can cause the aggravation of the growth of Candida in the body. Other than sugar, these products also contain preservatives and additives which are harmful to health. As an alternative, healthy oils and natural herbs can be used to add flavor to your foods.
Condiments that should be avoided include:
- Ketchup
- Mayonnaise
- Barbecue sauce
- Soy sauce
7. Fats and oils
Avoid using processed and refined oils in order to prevent worsening any Candida related conditions. These oil products are over processed and contain several derivatives that are harmful to your health. Choose excellent and healthier oil products such as olive oil. Avoid using fake butter products and spreads, instead, use real butter for a healthier option.
Fats and oils that should be avoided include:
- Canola oil
- Soybean oil
- Fake butter spread
- Margarine
8. Sweeteners
As one of the foods to avoid with oral thrush, there are a large number of sweeteners being used and added to different products, so read the labels and choose products that don’t permit the overgrowth of Candida in the body. Avoid using natural sugars to prevent an increase in the blood sugar. Also, avoid the use of artificial sweeteners as it can weaken the immune system, increase the blood sugar, and are known to be carcinogenic.
Sweeteners that should be avoided include:
- Honey
- Maple syrup
- Agave
- Aspartame
9. Beverages
Non-alcoholic drinks such as caffeine can increase the blood sugar levels, decrease the adrenal functions, and weaken the immune system. They also contain a high amount of molds which are suitable for the overgrowth of Candida. Other non-alcoholic drinks containing artificial sugar and stimulants should also be avoided since they can affect the blood glucose level in the body.
Drinking too many alcoholic drinks can cause a drop in the blood sugar level while drinking moderate amounts can increase the blood sugar level. It is important to destabilize the blood sugar level in such a way that the adrenal glands and other organs are properly functioning. In the long run, the consumption of alcohol can increase the gut permeability which can greatly affect the immune system in a negative way.
Non-alcoholic drinks that should be avoided include:
- Coffee
- Black tea
- Energy drinks
- Soda drinks
Alcoholic drinks that should be avoided include:
- Beer
- Wine
- Liquors
- Cider
Still confused what to consume? Choose probiotics. The inclusion of probiotics in your diet, either as food source or supplement, is an essential part of the Candida diet. These are friendly bacteria that balances the good and the bad bacteria present in the body. Remember that the overgrowth of Candida is due to the destruction of the good bacteria in the body.
Lactobacillus acidophilus is one of the common bacteria found in most cultured products. According to the National Institutes of Health, this can help in treating thrush. Check your local store and look for products that contain these live and active cultures. Don’t forget to choose the unpasteurized ones because the process of pasteurization can kill both the good and the bad bacteria.