Is Pasta Ok to Eat With a Yeast Infection?

December 30, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a 2016 study published in the journal PLOS One, individuals who frequently consume simple carbohydrates may be more prone to yeast infections. This raises the question: is pasta ok to eat with a yeast infection, or is it best to avoid it to help manage and prevent symptoms?

Quick Summary

Refined carbohydrates like white pasta break down into sugars that can feed Candida, potentially worsening a yeast infection. Opting for gluten-free whole grains or low-carb vegetable alternatives is a better strategy to support gut health and recovery.

Key Points

Refined Carbs Fuel Yeast: Traditional white pasta, a refined carb, breaks down into sugar that can feed Candida and worsen yeast infection symptoms.
Opt for Alternatives: Healthier options include gluten-free pastas made from buckwheat or quinoa, and vegetable-based noodles from zucchini or butternut squash.
Avoid Sugary Foods: Beyond pasta, a low-sugar diet is crucial, as yeast thrives on all forms of sugar, including those in candy, soda, and high-sugar fruits.
Embrace Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Focus on a diet rich in non-starchy vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats to reduce inflammation and support gut health.
Support Gut Microbiome: Incorporate fermented foods like plain yogurt and kefir, which contain probiotics to help restore the balance of beneficial bacteria.

The Link Between Carbohydrates and Yeast Infections

The yeast infection is caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans, which naturally resides in the body. When the body's natural balance is disrupted, Candida can proliferate, leading to an infection. Since yeast thrives on sugar, the type of carbohydrates you consume can play a significant role in managing or exacerbating a yeast overgrowth. This is why many people are concerned about foods like pasta and their effect on Candida.

Why Refined Pasta May Worsen Symptoms

Traditional white pasta is made from refined wheat flour, a simple carbohydrate. When consumed, these refined carbs are rapidly digested and converted into glucose, or sugar, in the body. This quick sugar release can provide a ready food source for Candida, potentially fueling its overgrowth and worsening infection symptoms. Additionally, gluten—a protein found in wheat—can sometimes cause intestinal inflammation, which may further compromise gut health.

Healthier Pasta Alternatives for Candida

For those seeking to manage yeast overgrowth, replacing traditional pasta with healthier options can be beneficial. Many substitutes are available that offer a satisfying texture without the refined carbs and potential gluten issues.

Buckwheat Pasta: This is a gluten-free pseudo-grain that offers a lower glycemic load than standard pasta.
Quinoa Pasta: Made from the nutrient-dense quinoa seed, this gluten-free alternative is a good source of protein and fiber.
Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): A popular and very low-carb choice, zucchini noodles are made by spiralizing zucchini and lightly cooking it.
Butternut Squash Noodles: Similar to zoodles, these offer a slightly sweeter, nutty flavor and a satisfying texture.
Shirataki Noodles: These low-carb noodles are made from konjac yam flour and are an excellent option for a very low-calorie, low-carb meal.

The Importance of a Low-Sugar, Anti-Inflammatory Diet

While avoiding refined pasta is a good step, it's part of a broader dietary strategy known as the Candida diet. The principles of this diet include eliminating foods that feed yeast and focusing on nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods that support a healthy gut microbiome.

Here is a list of recommended foods:

Non-Starchy Vegetables: Broccoli, kale, spinach, and cucumbers are great choices.
Lean Protein: Organic chicken, eggs, and wild-caught salmon provide quality protein without contributing to inflammation.
Healthy Fats: Avocado, coconut oil, and olive oil are staples of an anti-inflammatory diet.
Fermented Foods: Plain yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut with live cultures can help restore beneficial bacteria.
Low-Sugar Fruits: Berries, lemons, and limes can be consumed in moderation.

The Role of Probiotics

Incorporating probiotic-rich foods and supplements is a key part of managing yeast overgrowth. Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria that can help restore balance to the gut and vaginal microbiome, crowding out the overgrowth of Candida. When choosing probiotic supplements, look for a reputable brand with a diverse range of strains.

What to Avoid Beyond Pasta

In addition to refined carbohydrates like white pasta, several other food groups should be limited or avoided entirely when dealing with a yeast infection:

Sugary Foods and Sweeteners: This includes not only candy and desserts but also hidden sugars in sauces, condiments, and processed foods.
Alcohol: Many alcoholic beverages contain sugar or yeast, which can fuel Candida.
High-Sugar Fruits: While fruits are healthy, those with very high sugar content, such as bananas, dates, and mangoes, should be limited.
Vinegar (except Apple Cider Vinegar): Some types of vinegar are created through fermentation and are best avoided.
Mold-Containing Foods: Certain nuts and aged cheeses may contain mold and should be limited.

Comparison of Pasta Types for Yeast Infection Management


Feature	Refined White Pasta	Gluten-Free Pasta (e.g., Buckwheat, Quinoa)	Low-Carb Vegetable Alternatives (e.g., Zucchini, Butternut Squash)
Carbohydrate Type	Simple, refined carbs	Complex carbs	Very low carb, fiber-rich
Sugar Conversion	Rapidly converts to sugar	Slower, more controlled conversion	Minimal to no conversion
Gluten Content	High	None	None
Impact on Candida	Can fuel overgrowth	Less likely to feed Candida	Does not fuel Candida
Nutritional Profile	Low in fiber and nutrients	Higher in fiber, vitamins, and minerals	Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants

Conclusion: Making Informed Dietary Choices

Ultimately, while a single serving of white pasta is unlikely to trigger a severe yeast infection, regular consumption of refined carbohydrates can create an internal environment where Candida is more likely to thrive. For optimal health and to manage or prevent yeast overgrowth, replacing traditional pasta with low-carb vegetable options or gluten-free, whole-grain alternatives is a sensible dietary modification. By focusing on a holistic diet that reduces sugar and supports gut health, you can make a positive impact on your body's microbial balance. Remember to consult a healthcare professional for a personalized treatment plan, but using these dietary strategies is an empowering step towards better wellness.

For further information on managing Candida overgrowth, consider exploring the resources at The Candida Diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, gluten-free pasta made from ingredients like quinoa, millet, or buckwheat can be a better option than refined wheat pasta. It avoids gluten, which can cause inflammation, and often offers a lower glycemic load, which helps prevent sugar spikes that feed Candida.

The Candida diet is a low-sugar, anti-inflammatory eating plan that avoids foods believed to feed Candida yeast, such as refined carbohydrates, added sugars, and alcohol. It focuses on whole foods like non-starchy vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and probiotics.

No, not all carbohydrates are the same. Complex carbohydrates, like those found in whole grains and non-starchy vegetables, break down more slowly and do not cause the same rapid sugar spike as refined carbohydrates found in white pasta and white bread.

Yes, vegetable noodles made from zucchini, butternut squash, or cucumber are excellent low-carb and nutrient-dense pasta alternatives. They do not feed Candida and contribute essential vitamins and fiber to your diet.

The duration can vary, but most recommend eliminating or severely limiting refined carbs during treatment until symptoms improve. Following a Candida-friendly diet for several weeks is often suggested to help restore balance.

Not necessarily, and the science is mixed on this. While Candida is a yeast, avoiding all yeast-containing foods (like some breads and cheeses) is not definitively proven to help. However, cutting out sugary, processed foods that fuel Candida is a more effective strategy.

Dietary changes can be a supportive strategy, but they are not a substitute for medical treatment. If you suspect you have a yeast infection, you should consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.