Home Remedy for Yeast Infections: A Yogurt Every Day Keeps Yeast Infections Away

It's an unfortunate fact of life. Most women suffer from yeast infections at one time or another. And, for some women, yeast infections, along with the itching, burning, discharge, and other unpleasant side effects that go with them, are a recurring problem.

Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans, a yeastlike fungus that naturally resides in the vagina. And, in normal amounts, candida isn't a problem. But certain conditions can cause candida to grow out of control, and the result is candida vaginitis, or a yeast infection.

Many things can trigger an overgrowth of yeast and lead to yeast infections. Taking antibiotics can do it. So can hormonal changes caused by pregnancy, or taking birth control pills. Those who eat a lot of sweets are also more prone to yeast infections, because yeast thrives on sugar.

Women who use perfumed feminine hygiene products, such as powders, sprays, and douches, might also suffer from yeast infections. Even using deodorant panty liners can cause irritation and create an environment that promotes yeast overgrowth. If you suffer from frequent yeast infections, eliminating such products should be your first step.

Those plagued by yeast infections know how unpleasant they can be. Fortunately, there's a natural remedy for yeast infections. And it might be sitting in your refrigerator right now.

Yogurt Really Is Good For You

Studies have found that when women who suffered from frequent yeast infections started to eat yogurt daily, they had fewer occurrences of yeast infections. And, when they did get yeast infections, the condition cleared up faster.

Why? The lactobacillus cultures found in yogurt help to fight the fungus that causes yeast infections.

A Daily Dose to Prevent Yeast Infections

Doctors recommend eating at least half a cup of yogurt that contains live cultures every day. While most yogurt contains live cultures, it doesn't hurt to read the label for the words "active cultures," just to make sure.

What If You Don't Like Yogurt?

If you don't like yogurt, drinking milk that contains live lactobacillus will also be an effective way to prevent yeast infections. The next time you're at the grocery store, look for milk that has "cultured milk," "acidophilus milk," or "kefir milk" on the label.

How About Internal Use?

Someone might have suggested that you treat yeast infections by inserting plain, unsweetened yogurt directly into the vaginal opening. But, while this remedy can work, why go through all that when eating yogurt has been proven effective, and doesn't cause nearly as much mess or discomfort.

Yeast infections can be a painful and embarrassing. But a daily dose of yogurt could be just what you need to prevent or alleviate this bothersome condition.