What Is the Candida Diet? Foods To Eat and Avoid

It’s common knowledge that eating a diet consisting of ultra-processed foods isn’t exactly great for the body. But did you know that it can actually change the bacteria makeup of your gut? Considering everything that is connected to gut health—including digestion, weight gain or loss, energy levels and brain function—this is pretty major.

For individuals who are experiencing a gut imbalance due to an overgrowth of yeast, the candida diet may help restore balance to their bodies. There may be others who can benefit from this eating plan as well, like those who are experiencing an overgrowth of yeast due to other factors. Keep reading to learn more about the candida diet, including what it is, how to follow it and who can benefit straight from healthy eating experts.

Related: The 5 Best Diets to Help Manage Your Weight After 50

What Is the Candida Diet and Who Can Benefit From It?

Lisa Richards, CNC, a nutritionist and the creator of the candida diet, explains that the candida diet is designed for anyone who is suffering from yeast overgrowth in the gut or elsewhere. “The key components of the diet are eating healthy, low-sugar foods, avoiding processed foods, and consuming fermented foods like yogurt and sauerkraut,” she says.

Registered dietitian Molly Devine, RD, says that an overgrowth of yeast can have a wide range of unwanted health effects. “Early-stage candida overgrowth can cause a host of unpleasant conditions such as digestive discomfort, skin…