Many women underestimate the importance of maintaining a healthy vagina.
But when you realize that one in every four women will get at least one yeast infection in their lives, and that over 50 percent of women will develop painful UTIs throughout their lives, it becomes crucial to look at ways for prevention.
In an exclusive guide below, we take a look at a most essential way you can improve vaginal and urogenital health: by eating special foods.
From soy products and foods high in natural probiotics to nuts and even chocolate, this diverse range of foods are all packed with the vital nutrients and vitamins needed to keep the vagina nice and strong.
Let us know if you have any tips for general vagina health for all the women out there. We would love to hear your thoughts!
Scroll further to explore the foods that will keep your vagina super-healthy, and let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
Food #1: Natural Yogurt And Probiotics
Foods high in natural probiotics are rich in bacteria cultures that promote vaginal health.
Greek yogurt, for example, is known to ward off yeast infections, balance the body's pH levels, and kill disease and infection-causing organisms.
According to Everyday Health, other fermented foods, like sauerkraut and miso, have the same effect.
Food #2: Avocados
Avocados are rich in potassium and vitamin B6, and help produce a natural lubricant for the vagina, helping prevent it from becoming dry.
The healthy fats in avocados also help strengthen the vaginal walls, and are also said to give the libido a boost.
Food #3: Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are packed with powerful nutrients and vitamins, including vitamins A and C, B vitamins, fiber, manganese, potassium, and iron, according to Livestrong.
These spuds help keep the vaginal and uterine walls strong and healthy, provide us with antioxidants, and help our bodies produce energy-boosting hormones.
Food #4: Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc and vitamin E, which help maintain regular periods, and fight off vaginal irritation and discomfort.
Like avocados, nuts and seeds help lubricate the vagina to prevent dryness, and also relieve menstrual cramps, according to Everyday Health.
Food #5: Garlic
Garlic is one of those superfoods that can ward off all sorts of diseases. It has strong antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties, which means it can help prevent itching, vaginal discharge, UTIs, and odor in the vagina.
Garlic is known to fight off yeast infections, and to boost the overall immune system.
Food #6: Dark, Leafy Greens
Dark, leafy greens like kale, spinach, collards, and Swiss chard are extremely rich in vitamins A and C, and are great for promoting blood circulation and fighting off infections, according to WebMD.
Greens can help reduce itching and burning sensations in the vagina, and prevent any dryness.
Food #7: Dark Chocolate
Contrary to what some may believe, chocolate (dark chocolate, in particular), is great for the immune system.
Dark chocolate is high in antioxidants, healthy minerals, magnesium, and natural stimulants, according to Livestrong.
It is also believed to be an aphrodisiac, and is rich in phenylalanine, an amino acid that produces dopamine, a "feel-good chemical."
Food #8: Soy Products
Soy products often get a bad rap. There are myths about how eating soy can cause skin conditions and health problems.
The truth is, soy is high in phytoestrogens, plant-derived xenoestrogens that help promote vaginal lubrication and prevent menstrual cramps.
Soy products like edamame also contain healthy omega-3 fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins that can help soothe menopausal symptoms, according to WebMD.
Food #9: Cranberry Juice
By now, we're all familiar with the fantastic benefits of cranberries. Cranberry juice is great for improving general vaginal health, fighting off UTI-causing bacteria, and balancing the vagina's pH levels.
To really reap its benefits, stay away from the sugary cranberry drinks, and try sipping on the purer, unsweetened, more natural stuff.
You can also eat a handful of cranberries every day to take in those healthy acid compounds.
Please SHARE these food tips for a healthy vagina with all the lovely women in your life!
