Can you do anything to prevent vaginitis?
Recurring vaginitis – or inflammation in the vagina resulting in discharge, itching and pain – is not only uncomfortable but may negatively impact many different aspects of your life. Like many inflammatory conditions it may be from a multitude of different things, making treatment recommendations difficult to determine. However, you are not out of luck! Read on. We have suggestions that might help.
What is vaginitis?
Vaginitis is inflammation in the vagina. Any inflammation in the body is a sign that the immune system is fighting an infection. Inflammation that is present for too long in the body may be dangerous and is why it needs to be addressed. So, preventing inflamation is critical.
Preventing Inflamation: The Forgotten Treatment
Grandma was right. You really ARE what you eat.
What many individuals often forget is that what we eat plays a large role in preventing inflammation. We certainly know that eating a healthy diet provides a variety of nutrients that continues to keep our immune system in check:
- Fruits & Vegetables
Include fruits and vegetables at every meal with a variety of colors - Healthy Fats
Incorporate a variety of oils
Choose fatty fish at least 2 times per week
Snack on nuts and seeds - Lean Protein
Aim for 5 – 6 ounces per day
Try meatless meals
Incorporate more lean cuts of meat - Whole Grains
Add a variety of whole grains over refined grains - Fresh Herbs & Spices
Replace sodium by adding more flavor to your meals
Foods That May INCREASE Inflammation
We also know that some foods specifically may increase inflammation. This includes:
- Saturated Fat
Limit full fat dairy and fatty meats - Highly Processed Foods
Stay away from prepackaged meals and snacks
Ways to Increase your Immune Function
Also, as research continues, we are finding out more specifically how diet can enhance immune function to specific areas such as vaginitis.
- Include Probiotics in your daily routine
Fermented dairy products such as kefir, yogurt, and cheeses will have the greatest impact - Avoid diets rich in carbohydrates and yeasts which may stimulate yeast growth
Decrease refined grains, added sugars, and alcoholic beverages
Bottom line: be aware of what you're eating.
Overall, it is important to be aware of what you are putting into your body.
If you currently have inflammation in your body, the best you can do is take a step back to evaluate your current dietary intake. Consuming more “whole foods” in your diet is a great place to start. It will boost immune function, introduce more beneficial bacteria, fiber, and nutrients while decreasing processed, added sugar foods.
And remember: Prevention is key. The healthy diet outlined above and the foods that increase immune function is a great place to start.
Don’t wait any longer, take control of your diet to achieve relief. If making diet changes is difficult, I can help. Simply call us and make an appointment. We'll find a diet that's right for you.
Kaylie
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Disclaimer: Cutting out foods may be needed for individuals with an intolerance, allergy, or disease that requires a medically tailored diet. You can also reach out to me for support in maintaining your health through these obstacles.
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About the author: Kaylie Brand, RD, LD
Kaylie has a wide variety of experience working as a dietitian with people from all walks of life. She has developed plans and recommendations for professional sports teams, college athletic departments, grocery stores, grade school students, hospital patients, and more. In other words ... no matter what your goals are for eating healthier or weight management, Kaylie has the experience to work with you and find solutions.
If you are interested in booking an appointment with Kaylie, call Minnesota Women's Care at 651-600-3035 or click Book Now.
