This article is for informational purposes only. It is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.
A vaginal yeast infection is a type of fungal infection that is caused by the overgrowth of the fungus candida.
Every vagina has a healthy level of yeast. But when the yeast overgrows, this overgrowth can lead to a yeast infection. Sugar feeds yeast, and because of that people with elevated blood sugar levels may be at a higher risk of getting yeast infections.
Symptoms of a Vaginal Yeast Infection are:
- Rash
- Vaginal itching
- Watery Discharge
- Soreness or pain in the vagina
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Pain or burning while urinating
- Redness or soreness around the vagina
- Burning sensation when peeing or having sex
- Thick or clumpy white discharge that looks like cottage cheese
What are the Causes and Risk Factors of Yeast Infections?
- Sex
- Lack of sleep
- Unhealthy diet
- Pregnancy
- Using antibiotics
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Taking birth control
- Hormonal changes
- Weakened immune system
- Wearing tight, sweaty, or damp clothes for too long
How Does Diabetes Affect Yeast Infections?
- High Blood Sugar Levels: High blood sugar levels create the perfect breeding environment for yeast infections, making it easier for yeast to multiply. Sugar feeds yeast, so when glucose levels are consistently high, it can cause frequent yeast infections.
- Weak Immune System: Diabetes can weaken our immune system, making it harder for our bodies to fight off infections, including yeast infections.
- Diabetes Medication: Some of the medications used to manage diabetes, can also make it easier for yeast to grow in the body. Medications like Farxiga and Jardiance help the body get rid of excess glucose through the urine; this excess sugar moving through our urethra/urinary system can create an environment where yeast overgrows.
How to Prevent Yeast Infections if You Have Diabetes:
- Stay hydrated
- Monitor your blood sugar levels
- Take your diabetes medication as prescribed
- Eat a well-balanced diet, making sure to avoid too many carbohydrates processed foods, and sugars
- Move your body at least 20 mn a day and find an exercise routine that works for your lifestyle
Bonus Tips to Help Prevent a Vaginal Yeast Infection Include:
- Changing your pads and tampons frequently
- Avoid wearing tight undergarments or clothing
- Wearing breathable cotton or cotton-crotch underwear
- Do not stay in sweaty clothes or underwear for too long
- Keeping your vagina clean and dry and go commando as often as you can, especially at night
- Avoiding douching and using any toxic vaginal products with perfumes, parabens, or dyes
- Eat foods rich in probiotics like yogurt, sauerkraut, or kefir; you can also take a probiotic supplement
- Use the Kushae Vaginal Boric Acid Suppositories + Probiotics & Aloe! Our medical-grade boric acid is sourced from sea water and when used vaginally, 95% of women reported immediate symptom relief from bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections using our natural, mess-free, boric acid capsules.
