Your vulva contains many beneficial bacteria that help defend against infections like sexually transmitted infections (STIs). When these bacteria become out of balance, problems can arise.
Antibiotics, douching, tight underwear, vaginal products (such as sprays, lubricants and birth control devices), pregnancy and hormone changes are among the many things that may disrupt the balance of vulva microflora.
Broccoli
Broccoli is an ideal vegetable to incorporate into your diet for maintaining a healthy vagina. Packed full of probiotics, broccoli helps restore balance to both your gut microbiome and vaginal flora (1)
This cruciferous veggie boasts low calories and plenty of fiber, boasting significant amounts of calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium and phosphorous as well as folate, vitamin C and B9. (2)
Broccoli contains a chemical known as sulforaphane that can combat cancer cells and help fight their growth, according to test tube and animal studies. (3)
Broccoli contains indole-3-carbinol, isothiocyanates and flavonoids which provide your body with detoxification support, reduce oxidative stress that contributes to chronic disease and provide eye health support. Broccoli also boasts vitamin A for eye health benefits and contains cholesterol-reducing bile acids (4) which bind with their excretion to help decrease blood cholesterol levels. Soluble fiber in broccoli binds with these bile acids for greater excretion resulting in lower blood cholesterol levels overall!
Citrus Fruits
citrus fruits can help maintain a balanced pH level in the vagina. Oranges, lemons and limes contain vitamin C which is essential to keeping this area acid-free; furthermore their citric acid helps fight infections or itching below.
Peppers can make an excellent addition to any diet as they contain capsaicin, which has been shown to reduce vaginal dryness and itching. Furthermore, their rich source of antioxidants encourages blood flow as well as production of nitric oxide – contributing to an enhanced sense of well-being as well as supporting an optimal libido.
Sweet potatoes, cranberries and cinnamon should also be added to your diet for optimal vaginal health. Sweet potatoes contain beta-carotene which the body converts into vitamin A for vaginal health; this nutrient helps promote balance pH levels as well as protect from infections and odors. Cranberries contain powerful antibacterials to prevent urinary tract infections while cinnamon may improve vaginal secretions taste.
Olive Oil
Olive oil may seem an unlikely choice as part of your vulva routine, but its natural lubricating qualities may help ease dryness. Just make sure that before using, a patch test has been performed first to rule out allergies; also always apply externally when applying olive oil.
At all times, it is vitally important to use only high-grade olive oil. A higher quality olive oil contains more oleic acid which has anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective effects as well as being an excellent source of vitamin E, helping your immune system and guarding against free radical damage.
Make sure that if you use olive oil as sexual lubricant, that it comes from an organic source if possible to avoid disrupting the delicate balance of your vaginal microbiome and leading to infections such as yeast infections. Plus, its use can make cleaning up more challenging as it leaves marks on bedsheets, clothing and latex condoms or toys; so use with caution if deciding to go this route! If using, be sure that only high-grade organic olive oils are being used!
Blueberries
Integrating these nutritious foods into your diet can help maintain a balanced pH level, prevent infections and facilitate an easy vaginal cycle. Furthermore, including these foods in your daily meal plans may improve overall feminine health while mitigating symptoms associated with PMS or Vulvovaginal yeast infections (BV).
Blueberries contain numerous phenolic compounds – such as flavonoids and anthocyanins – which possess antibacterial and antioxidant properties, making them an invaluable food source. Ascorbic acid, an essential nutrient found in blueberries, helps strengthen your immune system while decreasing inflammation.
Yogurt contains probiotics, which are beneficial in maintaining an ideal microbiome and keeping vaginal infections under control. Try eating different varieties of yogurt containing different strains of probiotics to promote vaginal health and protect yourself from potential infections. Adding fermented beverages like Kombucha to your diet for even more probiotics could also provide added support. Women experiencing diminished estrogen levels due to menopause may find soy products contain natural phytoestrogens that could ease symptoms associated with Vulva Dyspareunia.
