An imbalance in the proliferation of bacteria in the vagina is the hallmark of a frequent illness known as bacterial vaginosis (BV). The most typical sign of bacterial vaginosis is a thin, sometimes-gray or sometimes-green discharge coming from the vagina. Other symptoms include burning and itching when urinating, as well as an unpleasant-smelling vaginal odor. Preserving a balanced population of beneficial bacteria in your vagina is largely dependent on your diet. Eating a balanced diet may improve vaginal health as well as general well-being.
However, some foods can upset the pH balance in the vagina
and encourage the growth of dangerous bacteria, aggravating the symptoms of
bacterial vaginosis. It's critical to understand which foods to avoid when
dealing with bacterial vaginosis to aid in recovery and avert recurrence. These
seven items should be avoided when you have BV, along with suggestions for what
to eat in their place to raise the pH of your vagina and lessen BV symptoms.
Some Foods to Avoid When You Have Bacterial Vaginosis
Refined Carbohydrates
Foods like candy, pastries, and cakes that contain refined
carbohydrates can quickly raise your blood sugar levels. This may encourage
harmful bacteria to grow in your vagina and exacerbate the signs of bacterial
vaginosis. You run the chance of contracting fungal diseases as well.
Additionally, by encouraging the flow of fluids containing
sugars, diets high in refined carbohydrates also upset the delicate balance of
bacteria in the vagina. This exacerbates your vaginosis symptoms by making it
simpler for bacteria and fungus to grow in the wet vaginal area.
Fried Dishes
The ratio of beneficial bacteria in the vagina can be
impacted by unhealthy fats found in fried food, such as trans and saturated
fats. It not only smells unpleasant, but it can also raise the risk of
bacterial vaginosis. These are a few explanations why abstaining from fried
meals while having BV is crucial. To encourage the growth of good bacteria, you
can include foods high in unsaturated fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, in
your diet.
Alcohol
Alcohol tends to dry up the tissues in the vagina,
particularly if you drink too much of it without drinking enough water between
drinks. An increase in alcohol consumption may also lessen the vagina's natural
lubricant, which helps to remove harmful bacteria and restore a pH balance. The
body's natural defenses against bacteria and fungi may be hampered by the
drying of the vaginal tissue and the decrease in natural lubrication,
increasing your risk of developing bacterial vaginosis.
Coffee
You may need to restrict your consumption of coffee and
other caffeinated drinks like tea and colas if you have severe symptoms of
bacterial vaginosis. These drinks' caffeine content may harm your body's
defenses against yeast and bacterial infections. Another reason to minimize
your caffeine intake is that it can upset the pH balance in the vagina.
Cheese
Cheese is not considered nutritious, despite the popular
belief that dairy products like milk and yogurt are. Unfortunately, if you have
bacterial vaginosis, cheese is not safe to consume. Cheese increases the risk
of infection by inhibiting the growth of bacteria in the vagina. Additionally, cheese
can make your urine and vagina smell bad.
Processed Foods
Most processed foods have chemical preservatives and
additives that can interfere with immune system functioning and make it easier
for dangerous bacteria to proliferate.
This may increase your risk of fungal infections, urinary
tract infections, dry mouth, painful sex, and bacterial vaginosis, among other
problems.
Specific Meat Types
When you have bacterial vaginosis, there are certain meats
that you should avoid eating since they contain xenoestrogen. An artificial
hormone called xenoestrogen imitates the effects of estrogen. It may inhibit
the effects of estrogen that your body produces on the vagina and hinder the
development of the mucosal lining that protects it, leaving you vulnerable to
infections.
What To Eat To Help BV Symptoms?
Certain foods can stimulate the healing of the injured tissues, help the growth of beneficial bacteria in the vagina, and return the vaginal pH to normal. Eating these foods can help reduce the symptoms of BV, encourage a quicker recovery, and stop the illness from returning. The following foods are beneficial for BV:
- Probiotic foods include sauerkraut, kimchi, yogurt, tempeh,
and kombucha.
- Leeks, garlic, onions, oats, soybeans, bananas, and whole
wheat products are examples of prebiotics.
- Foods like cranberries are rich in proanthocyanidins.
- Avocados.
- Sweet potatoes
- Sweet potatoes.
Additional Things Not to Do with BV
Apart from your dietary habits, several other variables may impact your likelihood of contracting bacterial vaginosis. Let's examine some additional things to stay away from to aid in healing while you have BV:
- Steer clear of dehydration to keep the vagina
well-lubricated.
- Avoid donning tight jeans.
- Antibiotics should only be taken when prescribed by a
physician or when required.
- Avoid wiping after using the restroom from back to front.
- Clear personal hygiene items with artificial fragrances or
dangerous chemicals, such as soaps and shower gels.
Vitamin(s) That Are Suggested for Bacterial Vaginosis
Vitamin A boosts immunity and maintains the integrity of cell membranes and skin. In addition to aiding in developing healthy cells, vitamin B6 may ease cramps. Folate, a combination of folic acid and vitamin B9, is a good supplement to keep on hand since it supports the uterine wall. In addition to lowering the incidence of bacterial vaginosis, vitamin C also combats free radicals, which is excellent for general health. Additionally, this vitamin guards against bacterial development and infection of the vaginal inner membranes. Similarly, vitamin E possesses antioxidant qualities as well.
Recommended Mineral/s for Bacterial Vaginosis
Some women developing bacterial vaginosis have an iron deficiency, so taking iron supplements isn't bad. Magnesium maintains
healthy cells and can be another supplement to have on hand. Finally,
zinc regulates cells and protein synthesis and boosts reproductive
health.
In Summary
Awareness of your eating habits can help you live a healthy lifestyle and improve your overall health. Maintaining the health of your vagina requires paying attention to what you eat and avoiding substances that can either cause or exacerbate bacterial vaginosis. To make treating bacterial vaginosis easier, make sure you stay away from foods that might harm your vaginal tissues.
Please book an appointment with the best Gynecologist in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through InstaCare, or call our helpline at 03171777509 to find the verified doctor for your disease.
