A yeast-free diet is a regimen wherein an individual stops eating yeasty, sugary, and moldy foods in order to decrease levels of yeast in the body. For some more than others, this change in diet may have several health benefits. Improving the efficiency of the digestive tract could promote energy and weight loss. A yeast-free diet is also likely decrease the chance of leaky gut syndrome, a condition with many unhealthy symptoms that may be difficult to diagnose.
Every healthy body has both bacteria and yeast that reside in moist areas such as the mouth, intestines and, for women, the vagina. The bacteria and yeast should feed off one another; this symbiosis helps to stabilize a healthy environment. When prescription drugs and poor diet choices upset this symbiotic relationship, however, an overgrowth of yeast may form in these moist environments, creating a host of health issues.
An overgrowth of yeast in the mouth is known as “thrush;" in the vagina, it is widely called a “yeast infection." Both conditions can create embarrassing and uncomfortable effects. A yeast-free diet is one way to help clear these problems when antibiotics do not work.
A yeast-free diet could greatly decrease the possibility of digestive problems, too. Yeast often builds up in the digestive tract, leaving undigested foods sitting in the intestines. This situation may result in painful bloating. An individual may also feel gassy and full before he has eaten enough nutrients to replenish the body.
Weight loss could be another benefit of a yeast-free diet. When a yeast overgrowth attacks the digestive system, food and toxins stay in the body longer than they should, making weight loss difficult for many people. Yeast, which is often derived from carbohydrates and sugary foods, tends to make people crave more carbohydrates and sugars. These foods often lead to weight gain.
One might also consider a yeast-free diet in order to avoid the development and symptoms of leaky gut syndrome. When a yeast overgrowth takes its toll on the intestines, it could eventually breakdown the barrier between the digestive system and the bloodstream. If a person suffering from leaky gut syndrome does not begin a yeast-free diet, he could begin to experience numerous health problems.
Leaky gut can cause toxins to release into the bloodstream, and chronic illness may occur. If the immune system is regularly fighting off ailments, fatigue may set in. Hormones could also be set off-balance, resulting in depression and mood swings. Much of the time, it is difficult for a doctor to trace these ailments back to the culprit—yeast.
Therefore, those who find themselves feeling mysteriously sick or irritable or who are unable to lose weight may wish to try a yeast-free diet. Many people who have decreased or eliminated yeasty food intake report feeling healthier and more energetic in about three to six weeks. It is important to note that a sudden drop in yeast in the diet could make one feel sick for up to one week; this result is generally considered normal.