What Kinds of Fruits Can You Not Eat if You Have Candida

Candidiasis is caused by the yeast Candida albicans. This yeast is present in the body as part of the normal flora and its numbers are kept in check by the beneficial or friendly bacteria and a healthy immune system. Upset in the balance of the normal flora and a weakened immune system leads to exponential increase in the number of Candida leading to Candidiasis.

Candida multiplies fast in an acidic environment at a pH where the ability of the body to absorb vitamins and minerals is lowered considerably. Candida thrives on sugar in any form. Be it the white refined sugar or natural sugar in the form of fructose which is present in fruits. Sugar promotes the growth of yeast and does not benefit the immune system. Most people who have yeast infection develop cravings for sweet and inadvertently end up feeding the Candida daily. Hence it is best to avoid fruits totally when starting on a Candida diet.

Once the current Candidiasis is under control, fruits with low to moderate amount of sugar such as apples, grapefruits, melons, kiwis, avocadoes and strawberries may be gradually added. The high fiber content in such fruits compensates for the sugar to some degree. Fruits like oranges, bananas, and grapes do not have enough fiber and are best avoided. Examine the fruits carefully for any signs of external bruising or mold, avoid eating such fruits.

It is important to remember not to eat cooked or fresh fruit with other food as this will cause the fruit to ferment. Fresh fruit eaten by itself does not ferment. Fruit juices, overripe fruits, candied fruits, canned fruits and dried fruits are also best avoided. Fruit juices are concentrated sources of sugar and canned or bottled juices may contain preservatives and/or added sugar. While probiotic yoghurts are good avoid eating fruit yoghurts.

Citrus and acidic fruits such as oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits and tomatoes should also be eliminated from the diet. Some natural therapy practitioners recommend taking cranberry juice which is high in vitamin C and cleanses the urinary system. Indian gooseberry which has the highest amount of vitamin C may also be taken.

Ideally, look for organically grown fruits as steroids and pesticides are generally used in fruits to make them grow larger, produce more juice, and increase their shelf-life. All these chemicals are detrimental to health generally and to patients with yeast infections particularly. Nuts, seeds and legumes are also best avoided as they have a high content of yeast or mold.