Fungal infections are widespread, especially in older individuals and people with compromised immune systems. The symptoms of a fungal infection vary in severity – from mild itching and skin rashes to dry and cracked skin with pus oozing out of raised, red spots.
In healthier individuals, these symptoms typically go away in time even without any treatment. However, in people with weak immune systems, these symptoms take a much longer time to heal. They are also very prone to recurrent fungal infections.
Medications can help a lot in controlling fungal infections, but if it becomes recurrent, then you will also need to modify your diet to help control and treat the infection. Below are the top three foods that you need to include in your diet and why.
#1 – Coconut Oil
You can use coconut oil in your dishes, and you can even apply it directly to the affected area. Coconut oil contains caprylic acid. This is a type of fatty acid that can damage and kill yeast cells, effectively controlling their growth.
Studies have shown that the antimicrobial and antifungal effects of coconut oil are effective against fungal infections, including drug-resistant ones.
#2 – Apple Cider Vinegar
You can add apple cider vinegar to a glass of water at a ratio of one to two tablespoons per one glass of water, and you can even soak the affected area in a cup of apple cider vinegar to treat fungal infection. Apple cider vinegar can also be applied directly to the infected site.
Apple cider vinegar has a lot of vitamin C which promotes faster wound healing. It also contains niacin and acids like acetic and malic acids which have antifungal properties that can break down yeast cells.
#3 – Cinnamon
Cinnamon can be added to your tea and dishes, and you can even sprinkle some cinnamon powder over the infected area. Cinnamon contains cinnamic aldehyde and linalool, compounds that are known to control inflammation as well as bacterial and fungal infections.
If you’re suffering from recurrent fungal infections, especially if you have a weak immune system, then you will definitely benefit from adding these three items to your diet.
References:
In vitro antimicrobial properties of coconut oil on Candida species in Ibadan, Nigeria. URL link. November 28, 2017.
Antifungal activity of apple cider vinegar against clinical isolates of Candida species. URL Link. November 28, 2017.
Cinnamon: A Multifaceted Medicinal Plant. URL Link. November 28, 2017.
