We all know that by practicing safe sex, having good hygiene and visiting our OB/GYN regularly are all key in maintaining a healthy, balanced vaginal pH but what we eat is probably one of the most important things we can consider when wanting to improve our intimate well-being even more.
Your vagina does a pretty good job at cleaning and protecting itself but certain factors such as semen, lounging around in wet bikini bottoms and consuming processed foods can throw off your vaginal pH. If you begin to experience more-than-usual discharge, itching or even a foul odor, it may be a sign of infection so to help prevent bacteria from thriving where it has no business being, consider incorporating the below list of foods to help keep your lovely lady bits healthy and happy!
Cranberries
No surprise here, cranberries are full of antioxidants and acidic compounds that help bacteria from sticking to the bladder wall therefore preventing infections! Cranberries are also beneficial for preventing and relieving UTIs but make sure you’re consuming fresh cranberries or 100% cranberry juice, none of that sweetened stuff! If you’re not a fan of the tart taste of cranberries then opt for Love Wellness’ UTI Don’t Think So supplements which are packed with PAC (Proanthocyanidins) to help maintain urinary tract health. (FYI they’re better than both cranberry juice and cranberry supplements!)
Probiotics
One way of getting rid of infection causing bacteria is by introducing the good, friendly kind to your body! Helping to create an acidic environment that ward off infections and irritations, probiotics can be found in fermented foods such as yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut and kombucha! To get an extra boost of good bacteria, try one of our best sellers, Good Girl Probiotics-they’re formulated with 8 strains of lactobacilli that help to maintain your vaginal flora and pH!
Fruits Rich In Vitamin C
Boost your immune system and help to remove free radicals that disrupt your vaginal health by loading up on the goodness of Vitamin C. Pineapples, kiwis, oranges, papaya, mango and the equally rich in antioxidants berry family (strawberries, blueberries and raspberries) are all excellent sources of vitamin C and make for a pretty refreshing smoothie!
Garlic
Better get your breath mints ready because eating raw garlic is loaded with tons of antimicrobial and antifungal properties that help to kill yeast! Raw, peeled garlic can also be used as a suppository to relieve and soothe symptoms of a yeast infection but if you’re like us and feel weird about putting raw garlic up there, try our boric acid suppositories, The Killer -it not only works to relieve infections ASAP but they’re also good for spot treatment for when things are beginning to feel a little off down there! You might also want to look into incorporating our Perfect Condition Vitamin into your diet because it contains garlic and turmeric which together work to break down yeast in the body and reduce inflammation system-wide!
Healthy Fats
Preventing infections and maintaining a balanced vaginal pH go hand in hand with keeping your estrogen levels in balance which is why eating enough healthy fats such as almonds, flax seeds, avocados and olive oil are essential to your diet. These healthy fats contain B vitamins and calcium that can help to prevent vaginitis and they also create a healthy mucosal lining to fight off other infections.
Water
When in doubt, water! H2O truly is a saving grace when it comes to all things health wise so it’s no surprise it’s recommended when it comes to your vaginal health. Drinking plenty of water will help to flush out toxins therefore diminishing any foul smells you may be experiencing as well as keep you hydrated which will ensure that your vagina stays lubricated. Drink up ladies!
Now that you know what you SHOULD be eating, it’s also important to know what foods you should be AVOIDING.
Processed Foods
Processed foods can depress your immune system which can allow harmful bacteria to pretty much take over and cause all sorts of problems such as BV, yeast infections, urinary tract infections and even dryness. In order to keep your immune system up to par, try avoiding frozen dinners, flavored nuts, potato chips, canned soups & sauces and refined grains such as white rice, white bread, regular pasta and breakfast cereals.
Sugar
It’s ok to treat yourself to a sweet treat now and then (preferably dark chocolate) but eating too much of it is no bueno for your vagina! Too much sugar in your diet can kill off the good, important bacteria your vaginal environment needs which can lead to an imbalance in pH causing irritations and infections. In order to cut back on your sugar intake avoid flavored coffee, sports drinks, packaged fruit juices, soda, cookies and of course all other cakes, pastries and donuts!
Healthy habits take time so if you’re new to some of these foods or the idea of eliminating some of your favorites, just remember that one healthy choice a day can help lead to a healthier, happier lifestyle…baby steps!