Should I Cut Out Sugar if I Have a Yeast Infection?

November 14, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), yeast infections are the second most common vaginal infection in the United States. Many people wonder, 'should I cut out sugar if I have a yeast infection?' with the belief that it can starve the Candida fungus causing the problem. While there is some truth to the link between sugar and yeast, the full picture is more complex and depends on medical treatment rather than diet alone.

Quick Summary

This article explores the connection between sugar intake and yeast infections, differentiating between popular diet myths and scientific evidence. It covers the role of diet as a supportive measure versus a primary cure, and outlines medically-backed strategies for managing candida overgrowth effectively.

Key Points

Medical Treatment is Key: While diet can be supportive, antifungal medications are necessary to effectively treat an active yeast infection.
Sugar's Role is Complex: While Candida feeds on sugar, simply cutting it out does not 'starve' an established infection for most healthy individuals.
Diabetes Increases Risk: People with uncontrolled diabetes are at a higher risk for yeast infections because elevated blood sugar levels create a favorable environment for yeast growth.
Embrace a Balanced Diet: A diet focusing on whole foods, lean proteins, and probiotics can help support a healthy microbiome and immune system, reducing the risk of future infections.
Probiotics Can Help: Foods like plain yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut contain beneficial bacteria that can help restore a healthy microbial balance.
Restrictive Diets Have Risks: The strict "Candida diet" lacks strong scientific evidence and can lead to nutritional deficiencies if not managed carefully.
Consult a Professional: Always seek a proper diagnosis from a healthcare provider, as yeast infection symptoms can be mistaken for other conditions.

The Connection Between Sugar and Candida

A yeast infection is caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida. Like many fungi, Candida thrives on sugar (glucose) and other carbohydrates. The theory behind cutting out sugar is that by depriving the yeast of its food source, you can stop its overgrowth and clear the infection. This is particularly relevant in individuals with poorly managed blood sugar, such as those with uncontrolled diabetes, who are at a significantly higher risk for recurrent yeast infections due to elevated glucose levels.

However, for people without pre-existing conditions that cause consistently high blood sugar, the link is less direct. While a diet high in processed sugar and refined carbohydrates can alter the balance of the gut and vaginal microbiomes, simply cutting out sugar is not a proven treatment for an active infection. Medical treatment, typically with antifungal medications, is necessary to cure an active yeast infection.

The “Candida Diet” and Its Effectiveness

Advocates of the so-called "Candida diet" suggest eliminating sugar, refined grains, alcohol, and sometimes dairy to combat candida overgrowth. While this approach can lead to a healthier diet overall, its direct effectiveness against an active yeast infection lacks strong scientific backing. Critics, and even some proponents, acknowledge that the benefits often stem from eating fewer processed foods and more whole foods, rather than a specific anti-fungal action. A strict, restrictive diet can also lead to nutritional deficiencies and may be inappropriate for individuals with certain health conditions like eating disorders or diabetes.

Potential Benefits of a Low-Sugar Diet

While not a standalone cure, reducing sugar intake can still be a helpful, preventative measure, especially for those prone to recurring infections. A balanced, low-sugar diet supports a healthy gut microbiome and strengthens the immune system, both of which are crucial for keeping Candida in check.

Supports a Healthy Microbiome: Probiotic-rich foods, such as plain yogurt and fermented vegetables like sauerkraut, can help rebalance the bacteria and yeast in your gut.
Reduces Inflammation: Processed sugars contribute to inflammation, which can weaken the immune system's ability to regulate yeast growth.
Cuts Off Fuel Source (Long-Term): By consistently limiting refined sugars and carbohydrates, you reduce the primary fuel source for Candida, potentially lowering the risk of future overgrowth.

Medical Treatment vs. Dietary Support

It is critical to distinguish between treating an active infection and adopting a supportive diet for long-term health. Over-the-counter and prescription antifungal medications are the standard of care for an active yeast infection and are highly effective. Diet is a complementary tool, not a replacement for medical intervention. If you suspect you have a yeast infection, consulting a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis is essential, as the symptoms can mimic other conditions like bacterial vaginosis or STIs.

Comparison: Diet vs. Medical Treatment for Yeast Infections


Feature	Dietary Changes (e.g., Low-Sugar)	Medical Treatment (Antifungals)
Purpose	Supportive and preventive, promotes overall health	Curative, eliminates active infection
Scientific Evidence	Limited for treating active infection	Strong, well-established efficacy
Effectiveness for Active Infection	Unproven as a standalone treatment	High, fast-acting relief
Speed of Relief	Slow, for long-term management	Fast, typically within a few days
Risk of Deficiency	High with overly restrictive diets	Low, short-term treatment
Key Outcome	Reduced risk of recurrence, improved gut health	Resolution of current symptoms

How to Manage Your Diet and Address Yeast Infections

Rather than a drastic, potentially unproven cleanse, a more sustainable approach involves making overall dietary improvements while using conventional medical treatments for active infections. Focus on whole foods that support a healthy immune system and microbial balance.

Foods to Prioritize:

Fermented Foods: Plain yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi contain probiotics that can help restore a healthy balance of bacteria.
Non-Starchy Vegetables: Leafy greens, broccoli, and peppers offer nutrients without a high sugar load.
Lean Proteins and Healthy Fats: Options like eggs, fish, chicken, and olive oil provide essential nutrients and help with satiety.
Antifungal Foods: Garlic and coconut oil contain natural antifungal properties that can be beneficial.

Foods to Reduce or Avoid:

Added Sugars: Limit sugary drinks, candy, and processed sweets that provide an easy food source for yeast.
Refined Carbohydrates: White bread, pasta, and baked goods break down into simple sugars that can fuel yeast growth.
Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can weaken the immune system and increase blood sugar.
High-Sugar Fruits and Fruit Juice: While natural, some fruits are high in sugar and fruit juice is concentrated sugar without the fiber.

Conclusion: A Balanced Approach is Best

In conclusion, while it's a popular belief that you should completely cut out sugar if you have a yeast infection, the reality is more nuanced. While excessive sugar and processed foods can contribute to a microbial imbalance that may increase the risk of infection, especially for those with conditions like diabetes, it is not a cure for an active infection. A balanced, low-sugar diet rich in whole foods and probiotics is a highly effective preventative strategy for long-term health and for those with recurrent issues. However, the most reliable treatment for an active infection remains medical intervention with antifungal medication prescribed by a healthcare provider. A holistic strategy involves both professional medical care and sensible dietary habits.

Visit the CDC for reliable information on vaginal yeast infections

Frequently Asked Questions

Excessive sugar intake can contribute to an environment where yeast is more likely to thrive, especially in individuals with compromised immune systems or uncontrolled diabetes. However, for most healthy people, sugar intake is not the direct or sole cause of a yeast infection.

The fastest and most reliable way to cure an active yeast infection is with antifungal medication, which can be purchased over-the-counter or prescribed by a doctor.

No, the "Candida diet" is not scientifically proven to cure yeast infections. While it promotes healthier eating, its claims about eliminating candida lack strong scientific backing. Medical treatment is the standard of care for an active infection.

While managing an active infection with medication, you can support your recovery by reducing high-sugar and refined carbohydrate foods, excessive alcohol, and sugary drinks. Focus on a diet of whole foods, lean proteins, and non-starchy vegetables.

Yes, some studies show that consuming probiotic-rich foods like plain yogurt or taking supplements containing Lactobacillus acidophilus may help restore a healthy microbial balance and prevent yeast overgrowth. However, more research is needed to fully confirm this link.

During a yeast infection, it's generally recommended to stick to low-sugar fruits like berries, lemons, and limes. High-sugar fruits and fruit juice should be limited, but are not necessarily completely off-limits, especially if your diet is otherwise healthy.

People with uncontrolled diabetes have higher blood sugar levels, which creates an ideal environment for yeast to multiply. This provides a constant food source for the Candida fungus, increasing the risk of recurrent infections.