Bacterial vaginosis is a reasonably common infection, especially among women in the reproductive age bracket.
It is most prevalent when there is unbalanced bacteria growth in a woman’s vagina, affecting the optimum pH levels.
Women with bacterial vaginosis complain of unusual vagina discharge with a strong foul smell, especially after intercourse.
Although it is not an STI, BV provides favorable conditions for the growth of STIs, leading to an increased risk of infection.
Since its genesis is the unbalanced pH levels in the vaginal canal, the sufferer needs to watch what they eat and drink.
The most natural and effective way of managing it is by selecting specific foods with the correct pH balance.
This article will show how these foods contribute to the bacterial balance and why they are the best alternative to conventional medicine.
Important Dietary Elements in the Fight Against Bacterial Vaginosis
1. Kefir
Kefir has the same characteristic as yogurt; thick fermented food made from milk using yeast and bacteria.
It produces lactobacillus, which in turn produces lactic acid, an essential element in lowering the vaginal pH.
Reduction in pH significantly scales down the reactions around the vaginal walls, bringing the pH balance to normal.
2. Garlic
Garlic use comes in different ways; consuming it raw or adding it to meals.
It promotes the growth of valuable microorganisms around the vagina, which stabilizes the vaginal pH. Moreover, garlic has antibacterial properties that fight any infection.
With these two remedies, garlic has been shown to be about as effective as metronidazole.
3. Citrus fruits (Lemons and Oranges)
Vitamin C found in citrus fruits fights off bacterial infections. It significantly reduces the risk of recurring vaginal bacterial infections.
The ascorbic acids in citrus fruits reduce the bacterial activity around the vaginal canal, helping to control the abnormal vaginal discharge and the fishy smell.
4. Cranberries
Cranberry juice prevents not only urinary tract infections but also controls vaginal infections, BV being one of them.
However, not all cranberry juices are healthy. Consume the natural ones and avoid sugar-loaded selections.
Cranberries are known to maintain the normal reproductive tract pH, which keeps the system healthy.
5. Salmon
One of the main causes of vaginal tract infections is irregular blood circulation.
With it comes elements such as insufficient oxidation disrupting normal body functioning. Salmon does not affect bacterial vaginosis in the same way as the other foods discussed above.
Instead, it has omega-3 fatty acids responsible for blood circulation in the body, including the vaginal canal.
Foods to Avoid in the Fight Against Bacterial Vaginosis
- Sugar – too much sugar consumption disrupts the vaginal biome, which produces a fertile ground for vaginal infections.
- Alcohol – excessive and concentrated alcohol dehydrates the body, the vagina inclusive. The resultant vaginal dryness causes itchiness, which causes discomfort and predisposes the vagina to other infections.
- Asparagus – is responsible for the awful vagina smell as it disrupts the vaginal pH. It also makes you prone to other opportunistic diseases.
- Coffee – promotes yeast growth in the vaginal canal, which provides a conducive environment for BV.
Other harmful foods for vaginal health include processed foods, steak, fast foods, and white bread.
They either lower down the pH or affect blood flow around the pelvic region.
Other Ways of Treating Bacterial Vaginosis
- Regularly clean the vagina area with unscented soap, clean water, and ensure it is dry. This washes out any infectious microorganism that might cause an infection.
- Take antibiotics that a qualified physician prescribes.
- Try to maintain a healthy body weight.
Preventive Measures
- Drink a lot of water regularly.
- Put on loose cotton underwear.
- Exercise regularly.
- After visiting the washrooms, wipe from front to back.