Many women face some type of vaginal problem at some point in their life. Fungal and urinary tract infections, genital dryness, vaginitis, excessive discharge are some of them. Unprotected sexual intercourse, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, psychological problems, hormonal changes, misuse of hygiene products can be among the factors affecting genital health. A healthy vagina has a naturally acidic pH and an abundance of healthy bacteria that help prevent infections. Good hygiene and a variety of foods can help keep your vagina healthy and balance your pH levels. Here are the top 10 foods to improve your vaginal health!
Probiotic yogurt
Probiotic yogurt contains live, active cultures (lactobacillus bacteria) that prevent disease-causing organisms from attaching to the vagina and produce chemicals such as lactic acid that neutralize or kill other infection-causing organisms. It also helps maintain healthy pH levels in the body. According to one study, lactobacilli help maintain normal urogenital health and play an important role in preventing bacterial vaginosis, yeast vaginitis and sexually transmitted diseases.
Lemon
With its acidic structure, lemon helps maintain the healthy pH level of the vagina. The antioxidants in it also help protect cells from free radical damage. Additionally, it works as an immune booster to help your body prevent and fight all kinds of infections. You can drink water with lemon once or twice a day to help restore the pH balance in your body.
cranberry juice
Cranberry juice is great for improving your genital health. It helps balance the pH level of the vagina and its acidic nature helps fight bacteria that cause urinary tract infections, genital infections and other problems. You can drink a glass of unsweetened, organic cranberry juice every day to reap its benefits.
Garlic
Garlic contains antimicrobial and antifungal properties that help prevent genital issues such as itching, burning, odor, genital discharge and even urinary tract infections. It also strengthens the immune system so your body is ready to fight any infection. Eat 2 to 3 cloves of raw garlic daily.
Savoy
Include kale and other low-oxalate green vegetables in your diet to combat genital dryness, itching, and burning. Kale is a rich source of vitamins A and C and helps improve blood circulation. Additionally, it boosts your immunity to help keep infections at bay.
edamame
The phytoestrogens in this soy product help keep the genital area oily. This is very important to prevent dryness, itching and other problems. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and various vitamins and minerals that help your body cope with premenstrual and menopausal symptoms. Aim to consume ½ cup of organic, unprocessed edamame daily.
flaxseed
Rich in phytoestrogens and high in omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseed can also combat many genital issues. Phytoestrogens prevent menopausal symptoms by increasing estrogen levels. Additionally, the zinc in these seeds helps treat genital dryness, itching, and burning. You can consume it by sprinkling about 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed on smoothies, yogurt, salads and juices.
Avocado
The healthy fats in avocado support healthy vaginal walls and keep them naturally lubricated. This helps prevent itching and burning as well as genital dryness. It also supports genital health with its vitamin B6 and potassium content. Just ¼ of a daily avocado is enough to reap its benefits.
Pumpkin seeds
A rich source of zinc, pumpkin seeds help regulate the menstrual cycle and combat genital dryness symptoms such as itching and burning. Plus, these tiny seeds boost your immune system and improve bladder health. You can consume a handful of pumpkin seeds a day to take advantage of its benefits.
Sweet potato
When absorbed by the body, the beta-carotene in sweet potatoes is converted into vitamin A, a powerful antioxidant. This antioxidant protects against free radical damage and allows reproductive system cells to function properly to keep the vaginal walls healthy and moist. You can eat 1 cup of sweet potatoes every day.