Zinc deficiency causes yeast infections

Three out of four women will have a vaginal yeast infection in their lifetime and an estimated 140 million women worldwide suffer recurrent infections

According to recent research, vaginal yeast infections may be triggered by zinc insufficiency. Candida feeds on zinc, and when zinc is low, it releases an inflammatory zinc-scavenging protein called pH-regulated antigen (Pra1). Pra1-induced inflammation is what causes the hallmark burning and itching that goes along with a vaginal yeast infection

In a pilot study, commercially available zinc-containing vaginal cream prevented yeast reinfection in five out of six women. A larger clinical trial is planned to confirm the results 

Other supplements that can be helpful in the treatment of Candida include caprylic acid, berberine, echinacea, pau d’arco and aloe vera gel

A yeast infection will produce an odorless, white, curd-like discharge from your vagina along with itching and swelling of the vagina and vulva, while cloudy, foul-smelling urine and frequent painful urination are hallmarks of a urinary tract infection. Common causes and treatments of UTIs are also addressed

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