For example, there are plenty of Ayurvedic protocols for managing candida that may be helpful. As with all protocols, figure out what feels good to you. If you have any doubts, questions, or concerns, contact your local Ayurvedic practitioner, physician, or nutritionist. Ayurveda believes that imbalance starts in the digestion. Signs your agni (or your digestive fire) are low, include feeling heavy after eating, not feeling thirsty, and experiencing constipation. I also advise clients with candida to avoid cold, raw food, while easing up on the fruit and fruit sugar—although apples (both raw and cooked with spices) can be beneficial due to their astringent quality. 2 Limiting carbs, sweets, and fruit sugars is important in an anti-candida diet, because the goal is to starve the yeast. Eating easy-to-digest meals like soups, kitchari (an Ayurvedic protocol staple), and oatmeal can be beneficial. Oil pulling may be helpful in treating candida too, especially when combined with the above dietary tweaks. In Ayurveda, coconut oil is touted for its cooling and antibacterial benefits—using for 10 minutes, twice a day, for up to one month, can soothe the mouth, especially if the candida manifests there. The practice is thought to help by pulling out excess ama (toxic buildup that occurs due to low agni) from the tongue and mouth.
