Fungal infection is one of the most common skin diseases. It is characterized by red, circular patches on your skin and can cause itching and blisters. Although your diet can neither cure the infection nor replace the medicines, certain food options may help control and prevent it from occurring again.

  1. What to eat when you have a fungal infection
  2. What not to eat in fungal infection
  3. Indian meal plan for fungal infection
Doctors for Diet for fungal infection

Some food items can help control fungal infection in the body. Following are some such foods:

Coconut oil

Several research studies say that coconut oil has antimicrobial properties, which can help you manage a fungal infection. Coconut oil is rich in lauric acid and caprylic acid, both of which help our body fight different types of infections. Certain studies also show that coconut oil works against Candida albicans, a type of fungus that is most commonly responsible for fungal infections. It is also helpful for rashes, dry skin, itching, etc. Add 1-2 teaspoons of coconut oil to your daily diet; you can use it in your curry or dal for tempering purposes.

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Garlic

Garlic is one of the best foods to fight any infection. It is rich in vitamin B6 and potassium, which helps our body detoxify and boosts the immune system. Garlic is also known as anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and antiviral properties which help to fight different types of infection, including fungal infection. This food is also good for the heart, liver and other digestive organs, which helps maintain a balance for good bacteria in the gut. You can add this superfood to your soup, salad, hummus, chutneys, etc. But for better benefits, try to have it in its raw form.

Pumpkin seeds

Pumpkin seeds are rich in omega 3 fatty acids and they’re known for their antiviral and antifungal benefits. Omega 3 helps reduce inflammation, nourish dry skin (which is prone to fungal infection), improve mood and boost eye and brain health. Try to add roasted pumpkin seeds to your daily diet as a tea-time snack or add them to your salad.

Oregano

Oregano oil is commonly used for bacterial infection but oregano leaves are as beneficial as oils. Oregano leaves can help boost your immunity and reduce the stress levels of your body. Organic oregano is rich in chlorophyll, which helps our body fight bacterial infection and reduces acidity as well. A research study says that oregano oil is rich in carvacrol compounds, which have antifungal properties. So you can use the oil and leaves in your salads or pasta to benefit from it.

Onion

Onion is a food that not only enhances the taste but is also good for your health. It is a great food for our digestive system as it helps maintain good bacteria and, in turn, reduce the risk of fungal infection. Onion is rich in vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium and many antioxidants. You can have onions in your salad, soup, curry, etc. If you are worried about bad breath, have one teaspoon of fennel seeds after having raw onion.

Ginger

Ginger increases blood circulation and detoxifies our body. It helps clean our digestive system and boost our immunity. It also helps ease gastric issues, such as indigestion, inflammation in the stomach, etc. It helps control fungal infections as well. You can have ginger in your tea, curry, chutney, pickle, jam or as a juice with honey.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is famous for its anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties. It is rich in caprylic acid, which helps our body fight harmful yeast cells. Research suggests that having cinnamon and cinnamon oil can be helpful when you have a candida or H. Pylori infection.

Although, if you are pregnant or suffering from stomach ulcers or intestinal issues, try to avoid this food.

Mulethi

Mulethi is also known as liquorice. It is a famous Ayurvedic medicine to treat throat infections. It also has antifungal properties, which can help control fungal infections. Mulethi has a good amount of flavanoids and mucilaginous compounds, which help our body control inflammation, blood sugar levels and digestive issues. You can add it to your tea or juice.

Certain foods can further flare-up a fungal infection. It’s best to avoid the following:

Excess carbs: Some studies say that refined carbohydrates can make a yeast infection worse. If you are suffering from recurrent microbial infections, it’s best to avoid consuming carbs. To eliminate this group, cut our all-purpose flour, white bread, sugar, sweets, fruit juices, carbonated and energy drinks from your diet. You can replace these foods with healthier options. (Read more: Healthy foods)

Stale food: Stale food can work as a carrier of different types of microbial infection. It can give irritable bowel syndrome, food poisoning, allergies, breathing difficulties and fungal infections as well. To avoid these harmful health conditions, consume homemade, freshly-cooked meals.

If you are suffering from a fungal infection, the given diet can be helpful for you:

  • Early morning: Ginger and lemon water + almonds (5) + walnuts (3-4)
  • Breakfast: Besan cheela (2) with garlic chutney (2 teaspoons) + curd (1 bowl)
  • Mid meal: Orange (1)
  • Lunch: Millet chapati (2) + palak kadhi (1 bowl) + salad with oregano oil dressing (1 plate)
  • Evening tea: Turmeric tea (1 cup) + roasted pumpkin seeds (1-2 tablespoon)
  • Dinner: Masala dosa (2) + sambhar (1-2 Bowl)
  • Bedtime: Turmeric milk (1 glass)
Dr. Dhanamjaya D

Dr. Dhanamjaya D

Nutritionist
16 Years of Experience

Dt. Surbhi Upadhyay

Dt. Surbhi Upadhyay

Nutritionist
3 Years of Experience

Dt. Manjari Purwar

Dt. Manjari Purwar

Nutritionist
11 Years of Experience

Dt. Akanksha Mishra

Dt. Akanksha Mishra

Nutritionist
8 Years of Experience

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