Top Foods That Help Fight Candida Naturally

Candida overgrowth is a common issue that many people face, often without even realizing it. This condition occurs when the yeast-like fungus known as Candida albicans grows uncontrollably in the body, particularly in the gut.

While Candida is naturally present in our digestive system, factors like a poor diet, stress, or antibiotic use can trigger it to multiply, leading to various health problems.

Bloating, ongoing fatigue, and recurrent yeast infections are among the possible effects of Candida overgrowth. More severe cases have even been linked to breast cancer, as studies show Candida may interfere with immune function and contribute to inflammation.

Fortunately, there are natural ways to manage Candida and promote a healthy balance in the body.

Why Does Candida Overgrowth Harm the Body?

Candida overgrowth is more than just a simple fungal imbalance. When Candida grows out of control, it can disrupt the delicate balance of good and bad bacteria in your gut, leading to an imbalance in the microbiome.

The harmful effects of Candida go beyond the digestive system. As the fungus multiplies, it produces toxic byproducts called mycotoxins, which can enter the bloodstream, resulting in systemic inflammation throughout the body.

According to research published in the Journal of Clinical Microbiology (2018), Candida overgrowth has been associated with an increased risk of infections and a weakening of the immune response.

Consider a Candida Cleanse supplement, by Whole Family Products, which combines the most effective herbs known to fight candida naturally.

Candida also feeds breast cancer so it is important to get it under control if chronic conditions hit.

Top 12 Foods That Help Fight Candida Naturally

Incorporating antifungal foods into your daily routine is one of the best ways to combat Candida overgrowth naturally. Here are the top foods that can help:

1. Garlic

Garlic is incredibly versatile and can be added to nearly any dish. It is a source of allicin, an antifungal compound known to help reduce Candida growth.

Studies show that allicin can inhibit Candida’s growth and reduce its ability to spread. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that garlic extract demonstrated significant antifungal activity against Candida albicans.

How to Add to Your Routine
Chop or crush fresh garlic and add it to soups, stews, stir-fries, and salad dressings. For a daily boost, consider adding raw garlic to smoothies or juices.

2. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil contains caprylic acid, which is known for its antifungal properties. Caprylic acid can help kill Candida cells and prevent overgrowth.

According to research from Clinical Microbiology Reviews (2016), coconut oil has been shown to possess powerful antifungal effects, particularly against Candida species.

How to Add to Your Routine
Use coconut oil as a cooking oil in stir-fries, sautés, or baked goods. You can also add a tablespoon to your morning coffee or smoothie for extra benefits.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)

Apple Cider Vinegar is a natural remedy known for its ability to balance pH levels and fight Candida.

Studies in the International Journal of Food Science and Technology have found that ACV contains acetic acid, which can help to reduce fungal overgrowth and promote a balanced gut environment.

How to Add to Your Routine
Dilute one to two tablespoons of ACV in warm water and drink it first thing in the morning. You can also use ACV as a salad dressing or add it to marinades for meats. Don’t drink it straight as it will remove enamel and cause harmful acid stomach over time.

4. Ginger

Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and is known for its ability to kill fungi. A study of Microorganisms confirmed that ginger extract significantly inhibited the growth of Candida.

How to Add to Your Routine
Brew ginger tea by steeping fresh ginger slices in hot water, or add grated ginger to your smoothies and juices. Ginger also works well in stir-fries, soups, and curries.

5. Leafy Greens

Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and arugula support a healthy immune system and provide the fiber necessary for proper digestion. These nutrient-dense foods help detoxify the body and support gut health.

A study in The Journal of Nutrition emphasized the importance of a fibre-rich diet in maintaining gut microbiota balance, which is crucial for preventing Candida overgrowth.

How to Add to Your Routine
Toss leafy greens into salads, blend them into smoothies, or sauté them with olive oil and garlic for a quick side dish. They’re also great in wraps, sandwiches, and soups.

6. Almonds

Almonds are rich in healthy fats and protein, which can help keep blood sugar levels balanced. Since high blood sugar can fuel Candida growth, keeping your levels stable is crucial.

A 2015 study in Nutrition Reviews highlighted the importance of healthy fats like those found in almonds for supporting immune health and preventing Candida overgrowth.

How to Add to Your Routine
Enjoy a handful of raw almonds as a snack, sprinkle chopped almonds on top of salads or yogurt, or spread almond butter on gluten-free bread.

7. Turmeric

Studies have demonstrated its potential in inhibiting Candida growth, with a study in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy showing that curcumin could suppress Candida’s ability to thrive in the body.

How to Add to Your Routine
Sprinkle turmeric on roasted vegetables, add it to smoothies, or mix it into soups and stews. For a warm drink, try making a turmeric latte with almond milk, turmeric, and a pinch of black pepper.

And if you’d like a more convenient option, our Organic Turmeric Complex supplement is also an excellent source of turmeric, making it easy to enjoy its benefits daily.

8. Olive Oil

Olive oil is rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, both of which help reduce inflammation and support immune function. A study published in Phytomedicine (2015) found that olive oil contains compounds that have antifungal activity against Candida.

How to Add to Your Routine
Drizzle olive oil over salads, use it for cooking or roasting vegetables, or dip gluten-free bread in it as a snack.

9. Oregano Oil

According to a study in Frontiers in Microbiology (2018), oregano oil was found to be highly effective against various strains of Candida, demonstrating its ability to reduce fungal colonization in the body.

How to Add to Your Routine
Take oregano oil in capsule form or add a few drops to water or tea. You can also use it in cooking, but be sure to follow dosage recommendations.

10. Bone Broth

A study published in JMIR Formative Research in 2022 found that collagen helps repair the intestinal lining, which can be compromised by Candida overgrowth.

How to Add to Your Routine
Sip on a warm cup of bone broth throughout the day, or use it as a base for soups and stews. You can also add it to smoothies for a savory flavor.

11. Probiotic-Rich Foods

Research published in Frontiers in Microbiology (2024) highlights the importance of probiotics in controlling Candida overgrowth by promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria.

How to Add to Your Routine
Incorporate a serving of kimchi or sauerkraut into your meals, or enjoy kefir as a drink or even yogurt in smoothies. You can also use probiotic-rich foods as toppings for salads or bowls. Beet kraut is a great way to replace salad dressing or mix with apple cider or balsamic vinegars.

For added convenience and consistent daily support, our probiotic supplements are an excellent way to boost your gut health and help maintain balance against Candida overgrowth.

12. Coconut Flour

Coconut flour is a low-carb, high-fiber alternative to regular flour, making it a great option for those looking to reduce sugar and carb intake. According to research from the National Institutes of Health, low-carb diets can help starve Candida of the sugars it needs to grow.

How to Add to Your Routine
Use coconut flour in place of regular flour for baking muffins, pancakes, or gluten-free bread. It can also be used as a thickening agent for soups and sauces.

Foods to Avoid (What Worsens Candida)

To help your body fight Candida overgrowth, it’s essential to avoid foods that can promote its growth. Here are some foods that worsen Candida:

• Sugar: Candida thrives on sugar, so it’s important to limit your intake of sweets, sugary drinks, and processed foods.
• Refined Carbohydrates: White bread, pasta, and other refined carbs can quickly turn into sugar in the body, feeding Candida.
• Alcohol: Alcohol can weaken the immune system and disrupt the balance of good bacteria in your gut, allowing Candida to grow.
• Dairy Products: Some people find that dairy products, particularly those high in sugar like milk, can exacerbate Candida symptoms. Remember to only use fermented dairy products and hormone free. A2 Milk is the best choice to avoid the A1 protein as well.

Aside from dietary changes, many people find added support through targeted supplements. Candida Cleanse from Whole Family Products is specially formulated with natural herbs and probiotics designed to help rebalance gut flora, support detoxification, and promote a healthier immune response.

Adding it to your Candida management plan may enhance results when combined with a low-sugar, nutrient-based diet.

FAQs

What are the symptoms of Candida overgrowth?

Common symptoms include bloating, fatigue, yeast infections, brain fog, and digestive issues.

What supplements help with Candida?

Supplements like probiotics, caprylic acid, and oregano oil have been studied for their ability to fight Candida naturally.

Can Candida overgrowth go away on its own?

While Candida overgrowth may resolve on its own in some cases, dietary changes, antifungal foods, and supplements can support your body in managing the condition more effectively.

Start Your Candida-Free Journey Today

Fighting Candida overgrowth is possible with the right dietary and lifestyle changes.

Incorporating the foods listed above into your daily routine can help you restore balance to your gut and support your body’s natural defenses against this common condition.

If you have any concerns about medications that might interact with these natural remedies, be sure to consult with your holistic provider.

At Whole Family Products, we believe in the power of natural, holistic remedies to help you live your healthiest life.

Start today by adding these natural antifungal foods and supplements to your routine and discover how simple, safe, and effective these changes can be for your well-being.