Nourish from Within: The Top Foods for Optimal Vaginal Health

Cranberry juice is rich in antioxidants and acidic compounds, which may help prevent infection and prevent bacteria from sticking to the bladder wall. Some studies suggest that cranberries may be particularly beneficial in preventing UTIs in people prone to frequent infections.

Sweet potatoes also have many benefits for vaginal health. Rich in beta carotene and vitamin A, sweet potatoes help keep the mucous membranes, which include vaginal tissue, healthy. Deficiency of vitamins A, C, D, E, calcium, folate and beta carotene can increase the infection of bacterial vaginosis. Sweet potatoes are also high in fiber, which may help stabilize insulin levels in people with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It is helpful in reducing PCOS symptoms over time by controlling blood sugar.

Probiotic-rich foods that contain some Lactobacillus may help prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria. Research has shown that probiotics may also reduce symptoms of BV and changes in vaginal discharge and odor. They may also help prevent recurring BV infections. Lactobacillus bacteria in particular may help improve bacterial vaginosis and reduce overall symptoms.

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Omega-3 fatty acids can help with circulation and blood flow, which can increase your libido. A 2022 study found that consuming omega-3 fatty acids helped improve sexual function in pregnant women. Consumption of Omega-3 can also help in painful menstruation.

Antioxidants may help improve overall blood flow and reduce oxidative stress and may be helpful in increasing libido and fertility. Women who eat more citrus fruits may be less likely to develop uterine fibroids. Antioxidant-rich fruits include: pomegranates, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, apples, blackberries. 

Soy contains phytoestrogens – compounds that mimic estrogen in the body and may promote overall vaginal health, especially in women who have low estrogen levels. There are many reasons why estrogen levels in the body may decrease, ranging from medications to menopause. But due to less estrogen, vaginal dryness occurs. Minimally processed soy products are hydrophilic, which helps muscles retain water, and contain isoflavones, which are beneficial for the skin. A diet rich in soy may also help improve vaginal dryness after menopause.

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Avocados are rich in healthy fats, vitamin B6 and potassium, and help increase libido. It can also increase the success of IVF due to its monounsaturated fatty acids.

Dark leafy vegetables are rich in antioxidants and enhance circulation due to their many nutrients, including dietary nitrates. Nitrates are vasodilators that widen blood vessels and improve blood flow throughout the body, including the vagina. This increased blood flow can help improve vaginal dryness and increase libido. These greens are also rich in vitamin E, magnesium and calcium, which benefit muscle health, including the vaginal muscles.

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Foods with added sugars and trans fats, as well as any ultra-processed foods, should be consumed in limited quantities. Certain foods can make your urine more acidic, which can cause changes in odor. Genetics may play a role in how food affects smell, so the same food may affect people differently. Foods such as asparagus, onions, Brussels sprouts, fish, coffee, red meat, spicy foods, and certain vitamins and supplements, such as choline, may cause unwanted body odor after eating or drinking certain beverages, whereas eating a balanced diet and getting lots of Drinking fluids can help you stay refreshed. Remember, all genitals have an odor and it varies depending on various factors. What you eat or don't eat usually depends on your overall health.

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Eat foods that improve your overall health as well as vaginal health, such as sweet potatoes, leafy greens, probiotic-rich Greek yogurt, and avocado. Diet, hygiene and sexual activity affect vaginal health. If your vaginal odor changes unexpectedly along with other unusual symptoms, it could be a sign of infection. Consult your doctor to rule out any underlying medical condition.