Heat, Humidity and Yeast Infections (OH MY!)

In Ontario, we typically greet the summer weather with mixed feelings.  After surviving the cold and dark winter, we are delighted to see the sunlight, spend time outdoors, and get some extra vitamin D.  Yet, at the same time, we may feel a little bit uneasy about the heat and humidity that Ontario summers bring.  For women, increased heat and humidity may also lead to more yeast infections—either vaginally or in the breast (the latter applies to breastfeeding mothers).    

Symptoms of vaginal yeast infections may include:

• Itching, irritation, swelling (redness & pain)
• White discharge

Symptoms of yeast infections in the breast may include:

• Burning pain in the nipple and sharp shooting pain deep in the breast throughout the feeding
• Preference for air drying the nipples after feedings
• Shiny, flaky skin of nipple/areola (sometimes with redness)
• Yeast infections or thrush in the baby

The most common cause, but not the only cause, of yeast infections is a fungus called Candida albicans.  It is normal to have healthy amounts of Candida residing in our body, but a full blown yeast infection can result simply from increased heat, moisture/dampness, and irritation, hence making women more susceptible during the summer.  In addition, sugar intake tends to increase during the summer (e.g. ice cream, juice, iced cappuccinos, beer, etc…), which provides the very fuel that Candida requires in order to grow and multiply.    Since these factors provide a perfect breeding ground for Candida, they can also make treating the infection more tricky during the summer.  Therefore, knowing what to look for and how to prevent it will help make your summer yeast free and that much more enjoyable.

Be aware of predisposing factors, which may include:

• Antibiotics (especially if you’ve have more than one round of antibiotics this past winter)
• High-estrogen medications (e.g. Oral birth control pills)
• Suppressed immune system as a result of conditions such as diabetes, hypo/hyperthyroidism, adrenal disorders, and steroid medications
• Pregnancy
• Excessive sugar in diet
• Nutritional deficiencies (e.g. Zinc, vitamin B12)
• Tight clothing
• Nylon underwear

Simple strategies for prevention:

• Eat a whole foods diet with lots of variety — dark greens and garlic generally help boost the immune system
• Correct nutritional deficiencies and determine possible allergies to food and environment as it may reduce immune function
• Avoid sugar and refined carbohydrates
• Also limit alcohol, dairy, wheat and deep fried foods — in Chinese medicine, these foods are thought to increase dampness in the body.
• Increase probiotics (healthy bacteria).  Foods that have naturally high amounts of probiotics include sauerkraut and Korean kimchee.  Probiotic supplements may also be helpful to re-establish a healthy balance, especially if you’ve been on antibiotics.  Ensure that the supplement includes the Lactobacillus rhamnosus strain.
• Avoid douching as it can change the normal acid level of the vagina
• Avoid scented laundry soap, bleach or fabric softeners as they may cause imbalance in the bacteria and yeast.  Fabric softeners also tend to trap moisture in fabric.
• Avoid tight clothes that prevent proper airflow
• Wear cotton underwear
• When spending time in the water make sure to fully dry and off and change into dry clothes

Please note that some of the suggestions above may require a thorough individualized assessment and treatment protocol, especially if you have a stubborn yeast infection that is difficult to treat; a more aggressive approach may be necessary.

Have a safe and health summer!

Have questions about yeast in YOUR body? Contact us to set up an appointment and get back to balance.