The factors that contribute to fungal infections, caused by the yeast Candida, are relatively numerous. Both immune disorders and a reduction in the diversity of the intestinal microflora, resulting from the use of antibiotics, may increase the patient's risk. For years, medicine has emphasised how much people's diet affects their risk of various diseases - could the risk of yeast infections also depend on diet?

Opinions on the relationship between diet and Candida infections are simply divided. There are proponents of the theory that certain foods may increase the risk of Candida infection by promoting yeast growth - foods to avoid, according to these theories, include starchy vegetables (such as potatoes, beans and maize), sugar-rich fruit (e.g. bananas and figs), gluten-containing products and lactose-rich dairy products. In opposition to these, however, are some researchers who claim that it has not really been established conclusively so far that eating or avoiding any specific foods can affect the risk of developing fungal infections.

So who to believe? This question cannot be answered unequivocally. Indeed, there are isolated studies that indicate a possible link between diet and yeast infections - cite, for example, a 2017 study that noted that high glucose concentrations can promote the growth of yeast colonies under laboratory conditions. Diet may have some influence on the risk of fungal infections, but on the other hand, many other types of factors influence the possibility of these conditions, so following a diet is unlikely to completely prevent Candida infections.