Yeast infections can be an uncomfortable and embarrassing experience for many women. So, it's not surprising that people have been looking for ways to cure them naturally. One of the most popular methods is by drinking lots of water to "flush out" the infection from your system. But does this actually work? Let's take a closer look.
The Science Behind Yeast Infections
To understand whether or not drinking water can help treat yeast infections, we first need to understand what causes them in the first place. Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans, a type of fungus that normally lives on our skin and in our bodies without causing any harm.
Fun fact: Did you know that Candida albicans is commonly found in fermented foods like kimchi, sourdough bread, and kombucha?
However, when certain conditions such as antibiotic use or changes in hormones occur, Candida albicans can grow out of control leading to unpleasant symptoms like itching and discharge.
Can Drinking Water Help Treat A Yeast Infection?
While staying hydrated with plenty of fluids is always good for promoting overall health (including vaginal health), there isn't much scientific evidence suggesting that simply drinking more water can help get rid of a yeast infection quickly.
It might sound tempting to try because let's face it – nothing sounds simpler than just hydrating yourself back into balance!
But unfortunately (sorry) , there isn't enough proof yet showing how effective this method actually is at flushing out those pesky fungi down under!
Here are some reasons why:
Reason #1: Overhydration Might Make Things Worse
Drinking too much water overloads your kidneys since they're responsible for filtering all fluids going through your body. So rather than magically washing away any harmful microbes present- frequent bathroom trips resulting from an overuse of the water closets are much more likely to occur making it difficult(hard) for your body to concentrate enough urine necessary in eliminating harmful bacteria with each trip.
Reason #2: Water Doesn't Have An Antifungal Effect
While water is essential for life, there's nothing inherently antifungal about it by its own nature. Other options like probiotics (live "good" bacteria that help fight off infections down below), special creams or OTC medications seem to be the best bet!
Negotiating desperate attempts such as daily consumption of large amounts of relatively tasteless fluid based on speculative claims can lead you nowhere except probably making frequent trips down the aisle of drug stores ultimately risking urinary tract infection and other health complications.
Pro Tip: As a general rule- those disposable moist wipes found mostly amongst women hygiene goods might just come in handy when you need them most.
Prevention Is Key!
The best way to prevent getting a yeast infection is understanding what works best for your body! Deeper insight into what makes our bodies susceptible to cellulitis, athlete's foot and host of similar conditions which arise from growths due excess exposure under wet conditions alike can all be mitigated through improved care regimes
Simple Tips That Might Save A Visit To The Doctor
- Avoid wearing tight synthetic clothing
- Use cotton underwear where possible
- Regularly moisturize after shower (ensuring proper drying before subsequent cloth-based contact)
- Keep yourself dry especially during periods - using tampons
For many people, success comes not only from drinking lots but rather ensuring simple lifestyle adjustments including maintaining good personal hygiene and cutting back on added sugars etc.
Stay hydrated though — just don’t forget that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to keeping things fresh.
Bottom line
Drinking plenty of water may have countless benefits such as aiding detox efforts or promoting glowy skin!
Unfortunately, when it comes to treating yeast infections specifically- Water isn't the magic bullet pills we wish it would be! but with a good health care habits and lifestyle choices – you've got this.