The incidence of yeast infections seems to be growing, yet it is
often looked upon as a common ailment that is endemic to women. Many
men suffer yeast infections and it is just as painful and
inconveniently located as for women.
Typically a topical cream or antibiotic (either oral or inserted
vaginally) is the approach taken when a yeast infection needs to be
addressed, but there may be common sense ways to prevent infection as
well as suggestions on treatment options.
What is a Yeast Infection?
When your body produces too much yeast it often results in an
infection. Since yeast is common in or on the skin, penis, mouth and
vagina these are areas where a yeast infection can occur (although
there are generally more incidence in women than men).
How Yeast Grows
The vagina helps prevent the growth of yeast through a caustic (for
the yeast) acidic environment. This environment can be altered
negatively by menstruation, as well as the use of birth control
pills, diabetes and certain antibiotics. These agents work to lower
the acid normally found in the vagina. When this happens, yeast,
which is common in the vagina in small amounts, can find an
atmosphere for rapid growth.
The use of synthetic materials in underwear or lingerie can also
contribute to yeast infections by trapping moisture which also
creates an atmosphere conducive to excess yeast production.
Why Yeast Infection Occurs
Ph balance in the body is the key. Yeast is prevalent in the body at
all times. Yeast infection will occur when the acid ph of the body is
lowered. The immune system regulates the acid balance in the body.
Your diet is the leading factor to help the immune system keep a
healthy balance. The body has a healthy ph of 6.4 (when measuring
urine or saliva), the further away, greater or lower, from this
natural reading you have, will cause greater disease and illness such
as yeast infection.
Stress is one of the largest causes of unbalanced ph readings in the
body. Blood ph is higher than body ph. Injury, overweight,
antibiotics and birth control pills all alter the natural ph of the
body. Fatigue is often overlooked as a stress factor. Your ph reading
does vary slightly through the day but should average 6.4 for the day.
What Not To Do
Some may be following advice that is actually harmful, so it is
important to know what has been offered in the past as an effective
alternative that will not help cure a yeast infection, and may
actually accelerate yeast growth or do long term damage to the vagina.
You should never use baking soda in attempting to cure a yeast
infection. Baking soda has a high ph causing the yeast to proliferate.
You should never use Echinacea in your attempt to cure a yeast
infection. While it may be good to take orally as a means of reducing
the effects of a cold, when vaginally inserted it can cause acute
burning sensations.
You should also never use bleach in eliminating the effects of a
yeast infection. Bleach can actually burn vaginal tissue and result
in scarring.
You should avoid douching because it reduces normal and healthy
vaginal secretions by drying out the vaginal surface.
Effective Ways to Reduce Yeast Infections
Reducing grains, sugar and most processed foods from your diet can
also help reduce available yeast in your body.
Raw vegetables are not only good for you, they can help combat yeast
infections
The persistent use and regular washing of either cotton or silk
intimate apparel is also an effective way to reduce the incidence of
yeast infections.
Nature's Assistance
Acidophilus is a culture that contains plenty of good bacteria and
can help your body fight a yeast infection. It is also a primary
ingredient in most yogurt.
Colloidal silver has also proven successful for many women due to the
fact that this mineral is highly effective in eliminating more than
600 diseases.
Tea tree oil has also proven an effective ally in the fight against
yeast infections and can be inserted vaginally.
If you have suffered several episodes of yeast infections it may make
sense to try a more natural management approach as well as effective
prevention methods. By learning about how yeast is formed and
regulated in your body you might discover new ways to personally
assist your own future
health.

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