The foods you eat affect the overall health of your vagina. Certain vitamins, minerals, and nutrients can help reduce your risk of vaginal infections or help your body heal faster, while others can cause changes in vaginal odor. Drinking water and making dietary changes can also help, as can supplementing with a type of probiotic called lactobacillus. And when it comes to foods, some foods can benefit vaginal health, but there’s no one-size-fits-all answer for what you should or shouldn’t eat for optimal vaginal health.
1. Berries help prevent urinary tract infections.
Fresh cranberry juice and cranberry concentrate capsules are rich in antioxidants and acidic compounds that are powerful infection fighters, helping to prevent bacteria from sticking to the bladder wall. Research has shown that 100% cranberry products may be particularly helpful in preventing urinary tract infections in people who are prone to recurring infections. Just be sure to avoid sweetened cranberry juices, as the high sugar content can make the situation worse.
2. Sweet potatoes have many benefits, even for vaginal health. They are rich in beta-carotene and vitamin A, which help to keep the mucous membranes and vaginal tissues healthy. Deficiencies in vitamins A, C, D, E, calcium, folate, and beta-carotene have been linked to an increased risk of bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common vaginal infection. So, eat some sweet potatoes!
Sweet potatoes are also rich in fiber, which may help stabilize insulin levels in people with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), potentially reducing symptoms of PCOS in the long run by controlling blood sugar levels.
3. Probiotic foods , which contain certain strains of lactobacillus bacteria, can help prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria. Although this ยูฟ่าเบท benefit is often associated with gut health, it can also promote overall vaginal health. Research shows that probiotics may help reduce symptoms of bacterial vaginosis (BV), including changes in discharge and odor. They may also help prevent recurrence of BV infections.
Lactobacillus bacteria in particular can help improve recovery from BV and reduce overall symptoms, so enjoy a cup of yogurt or kefir—just make sure to choose a brand that contains live, active bacteria.
4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids Help with Blood Flow, Low Sex Drive, and Menstrual Cramps Omega-3 fatty acids help with blood flow and circulation, which may help increase your sex drive. Although more research is needed, a 2022 study found that supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids “improves sexual function in pregnant women by preventing increased pregnancy- related anxiety .” Omega-3 supplements may also help relieve menstrual cramps, especially when combined with vitamin E.
5. Some fruits are rich in important nutrients that promote the reproductive system.
Antioxidants help improve overall blood circulation and reduce oxidative stress, which are important factors affecting libido and fertility. People who regularly consume citrus fruits may have a lower risk of developing uterine fibroids.
Fruits that are high in antioxidants include:
- Pomegranate: Rich in antioxidants, it helps improve blood circulation.
- Blueberries: Help protect cells from damage and may help increase fertility.
- Raspberries: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Strawberries: Improves blood circulation and may help increase sperm count.
- Apple: Helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
- Goji Berries: Rich in antioxidants, they boost energy and improve immune function.
6. Soy is rich in phytoestrogens, which are compounds that mimic the body’s own estrogen. They can help promote overall vaginal health, especially for those with low estrogen levels. There are many causes of low estrogen levels in the body, ranging from medications to menopause. But one of the most common symptoms of low estrogen levels is vaginal dryness.
Minimally processed soy products are hydrophilic, which helps muscles retain more water, and contain isoflavones, plant phytoestrogens that have skin benefits. Soy supplements may help relieve postmenopausal vaginal dryness. However, it’s important to note that many studies have focused on supplements with high levels of isoflavones, which may not be present in all foods.
7. Avocados are rich in good fats, vitamin B6, and potassium, all of which naturally increase libido and keep the vagina moist. This versatile fruit (yes, that’s a fruit) may even increase your chances of conceiving through in vitro fertilization (IVF) due to its high monounsaturated fatty acid content, although more research is needed on the link between avocados and fertility.
8. Dark Green Vegetables: Improves Blood Circulation, Sexual Desire, and Vaginal Dryness Dark green vegetables are rich in antioxidants and help improve blood circulation because they contain many nutrients, including nitrates. Nitrates are substances that help dilate blood vessels, which improves blood flow throughout the body, including the vagina. This increase in blood flow may help relieve vaginal dryness and increase sexual desire.
Dark green leafy vegetables are also rich in vitamin E, magnesium, and calcium, which are beneficial for muscle health, including those in the vagina.