Want Better Vaginal Health? Try These 5 Foods

Have you thought about what’s going on down there lately? If not, there’s no time like the present to start putting your vaginal health first.

Often we see vaginal health as important only for fertility or sex, but there are plenty of other reasons why you should take a more intentional approach. As women age, they’re more prone to infections and other medical issues like certain types of cancer if their vaginal walls weaken, estrogen production slows, and blood circulation decreases.

By incorporating even a few of these foods into your regular diet, you may be able to keep more than a few of those potential problems at bay.

Yogurt

Researchers have long considered yogurt a key probiotic for women, and science backs up this assertion. Not only is yogurt excellent for digestion, but it’s also important for keeping vaginal pH balanced. Not to mention, it’s great for taking care of yeast infections and similar issues. (And if you’re feeling adventurous, kimchi is also a highly recommended probiotic to try!)

Soy

As women age, estrogen production declines, which can cause issues with weight management, weak bones, and an increased risk of urinary tract infections, amongst other side effects. Soy products like edamame, tofu, and soy milk might not be for everyone since they may cause bloating or stomach discomfort. But they do contain phytoestrogens, which can manage estrogen levels over time.

Avocados

Thanks to all of those healthy fats, avocados can help your vaginal health on a number of fronts, including strengthening vaginal walls, decreasing vaginal dryness, and boosting estrogen levels.

Leafy Greens

Due to their blood-purifying properties, leafy green vegetables like spinach, kale, watercress, and Swiss chard can do wonders for vaginal dryness, strength, and blood circulation, which all become increasingly important as we age. You can also find additional nutrients like vitamin E, which is critical for overall muscle health, in these leafy greens.

Sweet Potatoes

It turns out that sweet potatoes are high in vitamin A, which is essential for keeping vaginal and uterine walls healthy and strong over time.

Broccoli

Researchers have long lauded broccoli for its cancer-preventing properties, and it appears to help with cancers that affect the reproductive health system, too. One study found that women who consumed foods containing a flavonoid called kaempferol, such as broccoli, saw a 40 percent decrease in their risk of ovarian cancer.

Strawberries

Cranberries are often the fruit people focus on when it comes to getting rid of infections down south. But foods rich in vitamin C, like strawberries and citrus fruits, are also key to a healthy vagina due to their immunity-strengthening capabilities.