Hannah Frye is the Assistant Beauty Editor at mindbodygreen. She has a B.S. in journalism and a minor in women’s, gender, and queer studies from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. Hannah has written across lifestyle sections including health, wellness, sustainability, personal development, and more.
Image by Ina Peters / Stocksy
July 21, 2023
Our editors have independently chosen the products listed on this page. If you purchase something mentioned in this article, we may
You probably know that what you eat directly affects your gut health and metabolism but not many people realize what an important role your diet plays in other measures of health—including vaginal health.
“Believe it or not, your vagina, like everything else, can be affected by your diet,” says board-certified OB/GYN and functional medicine practitioner Sarah de la Torre, M.D.
With this in mind, here are a few of de la Torre’s favorite ways to start eating for a healthier vagina.
Advertisement
This ad is displayed using third party content and we do not control its accessibility features.
Water is essential to vaginal health. “Drinking an adequate amount of water helps maintain hydration throughout your body, including the vaginal tissues,” de la Torre says.
Advertisement
This ad is displayed using third party content and we do not control its accessibility features.
“Added sugars can potentially disrupt the balance of healthy bacteria in the vagina and increase the risk of yeast infections,” de la Torre says. To refuel with good bacteria, add foods like pickled vegetables and beverages like kombucha to your grocery list, or take a daily probiotic supplement.
3.
Prioritize omega-3s, too
Advertisement
This ad is displayed using third party content and we do not control its accessibility features.
4.
Remember: Variety is essential
“Consuming a variety of nutrient-rich foods is important for overall health, including the health of your reproductive system,” de la Torre notes.
So while probiotics and omega-3s are great to include in your diet, try to pull them from a variety of sources to ensure you’re getting a range of nutrients. This will also help keep your home cooking interesting.
Torre emphasizes a balanced diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. In other words, eat the rainbow—your vagina will appreciate it.
The takeaway
You heard the OBGYN: Your diet plays a role in your overall vaginal health. So be sure to drink enough water, eat probiotics daily, prioritize omega-3s, and consume a variety of fruits and vegetables. Here, a few more ways to support your vaginal health daily.
Want to turn your passion for wellbeing into a fulfilling career? Become a Certified Health Coach! Learn more here.
Advertisement
This ad is displayed using third party content and we do not control its accessibility features.
