Testosterone is a key hormone in the male body. It plays an important role in almost every system in the body: cardiovascular, muscular, endocrine, nervous, circulatory, and—of course—reproductive.
Keeping your body healthy and your testosterone in balance takes more than the occasional workout. To help your body maintain a healthy balance and combat low testosterone, your doctor may suggest increased exercise, testosterone replacement therapy, or—in most cases—a change in diet.
Here are 11 testosterone-boosting foods that are a natural complement to any testosterone treatment.
1. Low-fat Milk
The phrase "milk builds strong bones" is a saying for a reason. It truly does! Milk is an outstanding source of protein, calcium, and vitamin D. It can also keep testosterone in check for men with low levels.
Drinking the correct type of milk matters, however. Select a milk that is fortified with vitamin D and is low-fat or skim. These kinds of milk have the same or similar nutrient content as whole milk but leave out the saturated fat.
2. Cruciferous Vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables—like broccoli, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, kale, turnips, and cabbage—are unique on our list, because they help with testosterone levels by lowering estrogen levels. These vegetables are full of a compound called indole-3 carbinol that is converted into a safer form of estrogen for the male body.
This transformation allows the body to regulate testosterone levels more easily. Increased levels of testosterone can help you regain muscle mass, lose weight, feel more energetic, and improve your sex drive.
3. Egg Yolks
Egg yolks are another delicious source of vitamin D to fit into your diet. Eggs have gotten a bad reputation in the past few years for being high in cholesterol, causing many people to pass on egg yolks and use eggs whites.
However, egg yolks contain more nutrients than egg whites and can help men struggling with low testosterone levels. Unless you have high cholesterol, you can safely eat one to three eggs for breakfast each day.
4. Fortified Cereals
Eggs can be a delicious part of your breakfast, but they aren't the only breakfast food you have to rely on for a good source of vitamin D. For those with high cholesterol—or looking to change up their breakfast meal—cereal brands fortified with vitamin D can be a fantastic alternative!
Not only are these cereal brands fortified with vitamin D, but many of them are also designed to boost heart health. However, you should try to avoid the cereals high in sugar content. If you really want to hit it out of the park, add some low-fat or skim milk to your cereal to get even more vitamin D.
5. Pomegranates
Pomegranates are a refreshing citrus fruit, ideal for anyone trying to stay healthy and increase their testosterone levels. This fruit is a tasty way to receive your daily dose of antioxidants and improve your circulation.
Plus, pomegranates can also increase testosterone levels by 24% when you eat them consistently for two weeks, according to one study.
6. Beans
White, kidney, and black beans are one of the few food sources that have both vitamin D and zinc. In addition, they're a plant-based protein that assists with heart health.
Baked beans are another popular and good choice for vitamin D and zinc, but you'll need to supplement your diet with other sources as well.
7. Tuna
Tuna is a protein-rich, low-calorie food, and it's good for heart health. It's also packed full of vitamin D and has been linked to a longer life and increased testosterone levels.
A serving of tuna will fulfill the average person's daily requirement for vitamin D. If tuna isn't your style, there are other great sources of vitamin D available like salmon, cod, tilapia, or many other fish. Keep in mind, however, moderation is important when it comes to seafood. You should only consume two or three servings of seafood a week to minimize your intake of mercury.
8. Oysters
Oysters are an outstanding source of zinc and protein to fit into your diet. One eight-ounce oyster can contain as much as 18 grams of protein and contribute to your daily requirement of zinc.
During puberty, zinc is essential in male development and can help keep testosterone in check throughout adulthood. Adding oysters to your diet can also help you raise your testosterone levels naturally if you have a zinc deficiency.
9. Spinach
Popeye had it right when he discovered his love and reliance on spinach. Spinach is an outstanding source of magnesium to add to your diet. This leafy, green vegetable plays a large role in both muscle development—as it did for Popeye—and reproduction.
An increase in magnesium can bind to testosterone and help you increase any low levels over time.
10. Shellfish
Fish and oysters aren't the only amazing food source from the sea that can assist with low testosterone. The occasional serving of lobster or crab can be a tasty way to add zinc into your diet and raise any low testosterone levels.
According to the National Institutes of Health, Alaskan King Crab has 43% of your daily recommended amount of zinc in only three ounces.
11. Beef
In the past few years, over-consumption of red meat has become a serious health concern. However, the correct cuts of lean, red meats can help boost testosterone levels in men. Meats like ground beef and chuck roast are a great source of zinc, while beef liver is an ideal source of vitamin D.
Like with most things, however, your beef consumption should be in moderation. Avoid eating beef every day; instead, substitute for a different protein or a vegetable.
Creating and sticking to a balanced diet of these 11 testosterone-boosting foods is a simple first step to help with low testosterone levels. Speak with your primary care physician, plan your meals, and talk to a testosterone replacement specialist today to combat low testosterone.
Volonte helps people regain their health and well-being through low T testing, testosterone replacement therapy, and weight-loss programs.
Call Volonte today to schedule your FREE low T screening, and follow us on Facebook .
Oranges contain more calories and carbohydrates due to sugars, and lemons are richer in protein, fats, and fiber. The two are similar in the amounts of vitamin C.
Oranges overall are richer in both vitamins and minerals, containing more vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, and B9, as well as calcium, potassium, magnesium, copper, and zinc. Lemons, on the other hand, contain higher concentrations of vitamin B6, iron, and phosphorus.
Both possess cardioprotective, antidiabetic, anticancer, and antimicrobial qualities.
Both oranges and lemons can be very beneficial if used correctly, and the choice depends on the situation and personal preference.
Table of contents
Introduction
Nutrition
Vitamins
Vitamin C
Minerals
Health Impact
Cardiovascular Health
Antioxidant Effects
Cardioprotective Effecfts
Antihypertensive Effects
Cerebrovascular Protection
Diabetes
Glucose and Insulin Response
Obesity
Diabetic Nephropathy
Cancer
Antimicrobial Effects
Allergy
Antiallergic Qualities
Sources.
Introduction
Oranges and lemons are often the fruits that come to mind when we think of good sources for vitamin C. They are both citrus fruits belonging to the Rutaceae family and the Citrus genus and both hybrids. A genomic study has shown that oranges (Citrus × sinensis) are a hybrid between pomelo and mandarin (1), whereas lemons are said to be a hybrid between sour (Seville, bitter or Citrus × aurantium) orange and citron (2). In this article, the word "orange" refers to the sweet orange or Citrus × sinensis, as it is the most commonly used species of oranges.
Nutrition
Oranges contain more calories and carbs due to sugar, while lemons are higher in protein, fats, and fiber. Both fruits naturally do not contain cholesterol.
When it comes to the glycemic index, both oranges, and lemons, as most citrus fruits, fall under the classification of low glycemic index foods.
While an exact number has not yet been calculated for the glycemic index of lemons, the glycemic index of raw oranges from Canada is 40.
You can find full texts on the glycemic impact of orange and lemon.
One serving size of an orange is equal to one fruit that weighs around 131g. Lemon's serving size is much smaller, equalling 58 grams.
If you are on a low-carb or a low-calorie diet, lemons are the right choice for you out of these two fruits. Orange is the preferable choice for a low-fat diet.
Acidity
Lemons often taste sourer than oranges. The fruit's acidity decides this difference in taste. The acidity of lemon varieties falls between 5 to 7%, primarily due to the citric acid content, as opposed to the 1% in oranges (3). The pH of oranges is calculated to be in the range of 3,69-4,34, whereas the pH of lemons is around 2 to 2,6 (4). The pH of lemon juice also ranges around the same numbers as the pH of a lemon. Therefore, lemons are more acidic than oranges.
Once oranges and lemons are fully digested and metabolized, the citric acid becomes alkaline in the body. Based on the potential renal acid load (PRAL), oranges are more alkaline-forming.
Vitamins
Oranges are overall richer in vitamins, being higher in vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, and B9. The only vitamin that lemons contain more of is vitamin B6.
Both oranges and lemons lack vitamin D, vitamin K, and vitamin B12.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is one of the most important nutrients found in citrus fruits, for which they are famous. Lemons and oranges have approximately the same amount of vitamin C, with orange's vitamin C content only slightly higher. Both oranges and lemons contain more vitamin C in their zests or peels.
However, raw lemon juice is richer in vitamin C compared to orange juice.
Vitamin Comparison
Vitamin comparison score is based on the number of vitamins by which one or the other food is richer. The "coverage" chart below show how much of the daily needs can be covered by 300 grams of the food
8
:
1
Contains moreVitamin A +922.7%
Contains moreVitamin E +20%
Contains moreVitamin B1 +117.5%
Contains moreVitamin B2 +100%
Contains moreVitamin B3 +182%
Contains moreVitamin B5 +31.6%
Contains moreFolate +172.7%
ContainsmoreVitamin B6 +33.3%
Contains moreVitamin A +922.7%
Contains moreVitamin E +20%
Contains moreVitamin B1 +117.5%
Contains moreVitamin B2 +100%
Contains moreVitamin B3 +182%
Contains moreVitamin B5 +31.6%
Contains moreFolate +172.7%
ContainsmoreVitamin B6 +33.3%
Minerals
Oranges also win in the minerals category. They contain higher concentrations of calcium, potassium, magnesium, copper, and zinc. Lemons, on the other hand, are much higher in iron and contain more phosphorus as well. Lemons also contain sodium, whereas oranges do not.
Mineral Comparison
Mineral comparison score is based on the number of minerals by which one or the other food is richer. The "coverage" chart below show how much of the daily needs can be covered by 300 grams of the food
6
:
2
Contains moreCalcium +53.8%
Contains morePotassium +31.2%
Contains moreMagnesium +25%
Contains moreCopper +21.6%
Contains moreZinc +16.7%
Contains lessSodium -100%
ContainsmoreIron +500%
ContainsmorePhosphorus +14.3%
Contains moreCalcium +53.8%
Contains morePotassium +31.2%
Contains moreMagnesium +25%
Contains moreCopper +21.6%
Contains moreZinc +16.7%
Contains lessSodium -100%
ContainsmoreIron +500%
ContainsmorePhosphorus +14.3%
Health Impact
Oranges and lemons, like all citrus fruits, are rich in phytochemicals that provide many protective qualities. These phytochemicals include flavonoids (naringenin, hesperidin), carotenoids (beta-carotin, lutein), coumarins, phenolic acids, and many others.
Cardiovascular Health
Antioxidant Effects
Reactive oxygen species are the chemicals often involved in heart disease. These are chemically reactive compounds that can be toxic to cells, damaging macromolecules, such as lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Phenolic compounds found in citrus fruits can directly absorb, neutralize these chemicals and inhibit enzymes associated with this pathogenesis. Polyphenols can also enhance the natural human antioxidants (5).
Cardioprotective Effecfts
Many studies have shown foods high in flavonoids to lower blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Lemons, in particular, have been shown to reduce low-density lipoproteins, commonly referred to as "bad cholesterol," and increase high-density lipoproteins, often called "good cholesterol" (6).
Flavonoids can also prevent hyperglycemia by increasing the formation of glycogen molecules from glucose and inhibiting the synthesis of glucose in the liver (5)․
Atherosclerosis is the leading cause of heart disease and stroke. Naringenin and hesperetin are flavonoids that also possess antiatherogenic abilities by promoting fatty acid breakdown. Oranges contain comparatively high levels of naringenin, whereas lemons are rich in hesperetin (7).
Antihypertensive Effects
People with high blood pressure are advised to decrease their sodium intake. Luckily oranges do not contain sodium, and lemons are low in this mineral.
A study has shown that high flavonoid juice consumption can reduce diastolic blood pressure due to flavonoids such as naringin and narirutin (8).
Intake of lemon has also been proven to have an inverse association with systolic blood pressure (9).
Cerebrovascular Protection
One research has concluded that citrus consumption reduces the risk of cerebrovascular diseases, such as ischemic stroke and intracerebral hemorrhage (10).
Diabetes
Glucose and Insulin Response
Studies in experimental diabetes models demonstrate the efficacy of citrus flavonoids to improve glucose tolerance, increase insulin secretion and sensitivity, decrease insulin resistance, reduce hepatic glucose production and intestinal glucose absorption, enhance peripheral glucose uptake, suppress inflammation, and modulate the activity of enzymes and transporters involved in glucose and lipid metabolism (11). The flavonoids with strong antidiabetic activities are hesperidin, naringin, and nobiletin (5)
Consuming lemon or lemon juice along with bread or other starchy foods has been proven to reduce the impact of glycemic response through premature inhibition of the α-amylase enzyme in the saliva that breaks down carbohydrates (12).
A study has also shown that 1000mg of vitamin C consumption a day leads to decreased levels of blood sugar, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low and high-density lipoproteins, as well as serum insulin (13).
Obesity
Citrus flavonoids modulate different signaling pathways involved in adiposity and fat cell differentiation and hence could be of significant value for the development of antiobesity agents (11).
Polyphenols found in citrus fruits can assist obesity management since they cause a reduction in fat cell differentiation, lipid content in the cell, and programmed death of fat cells. They can also potentially alleviate complications present in obesity by reducing cytokines, which are responsible for inflammatory processes (14).
Diabetic Nephropathy
Diabetic nephropathy is a severe complication due to diabetes mellitus type 2, which leads to end-stage renal disease. A study has concluded that red orange and lemon extract has the ability to prevent this complication, owing to the strong antioxidant qualities of anthocyanins (15).
Cancer
The phytochemicals within citrus fruits have been associated with a reduced risk of cancers, especially digestive and upper respiratory tract cancers. This effect was significant even with moderate citrus fruit consumption (16).
The phytochemicals that have shown anticancer abilities include flavonoids, limonenes, and coumarins. The effects have been studied against gastric cancer, breast cancer, formation of lung tumors, formation of tumors of the colon, hepatocarcinogenesis, and blood stem cell malignancies (5).
Lemons are particularly rich in limonenes, which have been studied to have antiproliferative effects on human breast cancer cells (17). This effect is stronger in estrogen-responsive breast cancers due to limonene's anti-aromatase quality, which inhibits androgens' transformation into estrogens.
Not only fresh citrus fruits but also their juices and other derivatives can act as a potential resource against various cancers (18).
Antimicrobial Effects
Essential oils of orange and lemon fruits have expressed bacteriostatic (stopping bacteria's reproduction) and bactericidal (killing the bacteria) effects, primarily due to the limonene concentration (7).
Another phytochemical naringenin, a flavonoid that oranges are especially rich in, has been shown to repress Salmonella bacterium's pathogenicity and cell motility (19). This flavonoid and some others may also modulate intestinal microflora by serving as an antipathogenic agent against Escherichia Coli (20).
Allergy
Citrus allergies are quite rare but do occur. A person allergic to citrus fruits may have symptoms shortly after coming in contact with fruits, such as oranges and lemons. An allergy to the compound called limonene can cause contact dermatitis (21). However, food allergies are more common, causing symptoms such as oral allergy syndrome (itching, swelling, tingling, or redness of the mouth area), nausea, diarrhea, and in rare cases, even anaphylaxis.
The allergens identified in citrus fruits are lipid transfer proteins, profiling, and pectin, as well as limonene. Some of these allergens may have cross-reactions with other common allergens, such as pollen, apples, or peaches (22, 23).
People can also be sensitive to citric acid, which is not considered to be an allergy, as citric acid does not cause an immune response in the organism (24).
Antiallergic Qualities
For allergic people who are not sensitive to citrus fruits, these fruits may serve as natural medicine. Flavonoids naringenin and hesperidin, which oranges and lemons are rich in, have been studied to reduce allergy symptoms and suppress inflammatory compounds (25).
Oral administration of aqueous extracts of citrus fruit peels has also been studied to demonstrate antiallergic and anti-inflammatory qualities (26).
The summary score is calculated by summing up the daily values contained in 300 grams of the product. Obviously the more the food fulfills human daily needs, the more the summary score is.
Vitamin Summary Score
24
20
Mineral Summary Score
8
9
Macronutrients Comparison
Macronutrient comparison charts compare the amount of protein, total fats, and total carbohydrates in 300 grams of the food. The displayed values show how much of the daily needs can be covered by 300 grams of food.
Protein
6%
7%
Carbohydrates
12%
9%
Fats
1%
1%
Which food is preferable for your diet?
is better in case of low diet
Low Calories diet
Low Fats diet
Low Carbs diet
Low glycemic index diet
People also compare
Comparison summary
Which food contains less Sodium?
Orange contains less Sodium (difference - 2mg)
Which food is lower in Saturated Fat?
Orange is lower in Saturated Fat (difference - 0.024g)
Which food is lower in glycemic index?
Orange is lower in glycemic index (difference - 45)
Which food is cheaper?
Orange is cheaper (difference - $0.1)
Which food is richer in vitamins?
Orange is relatively richer in vitamins
Which food is lower in Sugar?
Lemon is lower in Sugar (difference - 6.85g)
Which food contains less Cholesterol?
?
The foods are relatively equal in Cholesterol (0 mg)
Which food is richer in minerals?
?
It cannot be stated which food is richer in vitamins. See the charts below for detailed information. See the charts below for detailed information. See the charts below for detailed information.
Dr A. Bolinexplains why some of the things people use to decorate, cleanse, tighten or detox their nether regions aren't always such a good idea.
These days vaginas are getting a lot of attention. We're being told they need to be revitalised, cleansed, detoxed and bejazzled and the internet is awash with a multitude of mixtures, recipes and products claiming to do all those things: vagina sticks, perfumed douches, glittery "passion dust" and even a ground up wasp nest powder are just a few of the things people are putting in that other place where the sun doesn't shine. But, are they really safe to use or could they increase your risk of infection?
A whole new world: it's an ecosystem.
Just like your gut, the vagina has a whole microbiome inside it with good and bad bacteria. A healthy diet and exercise are important to keep the bacterial balance as well as maintain vaginal muscular tone and function.
The pH of the vagina (normally less than 4.5) is acidic and it helps keep the balance between the good and bad bacteria. If the acidity of the vagina drops (it becomes more basic), the number of 'good' lactobacilli bacteria drops, which can enable other bacteria to overgrow and cause an infection. Putting various concoctions into your vagina may tip the pH balance in a direction that makes you more prone to infections.
So let's take a look at some of the more common things people use.
From the kitchen: are your internet recipes evidence-based?
1) Yogurt soaked tampon vs. yogurt for breakfast.
If you have a yeast infection like thrush you may be tempted to treat it with a home remedy involving of a bit of yoghurt and a tampon. While there is a certain logic to restoring the balance of the flora in your vagina this way, it may not be the best idea. There is evidence that eating probiotics like yoghurt can help re-colonising the gut and the vagina with the good bacteria, lactobacilli, but Harvard Health says there is still not enough evidence to recommend using yogurt internally. More studies are needed.
And be doubly cautious if the yoghurt is sugared, flavoured or has other additives. Sugars feeds yeast and could contribute to a yeast infection, which ironically, may have been what you were trying to get rid of with the yoghurt in the first place.
*Recommendation: stick with GP recommended treatments for yeast infections and make sure to rule out other infections. Oral probiotic supplements and probiotic rich yogurt is good for gut and vaginal flora.
2) Apple Cider Vinegar
Many people claim that an apple cider vinegar bath cures a yeast infection. However, there is evidence that chemical burns can be caused by direct application of vinegar to the skin. If a few drops are put into a bathtub full of water that is a different concentration than putting full strength vinegar into your vagina which can lead to irritation and burns.
*Recommendation: leave it for your salad.
3) Garlic
Garlic is known to have a plethora of antibacterial properties, however, it can be an irritant and lead to allergic reactions if applied topically to the skin or put inside the vagina.
*Recommendation: enjoy with your stir-fry instead.
4) Vitamin C
Known as a potent antioxidant, some studies suggest that it might be useful as a treatment for infections such as non-specific vaginitis. However, inserting vitamin C tablets or power into the vagina can lead to burns as it is an acid. Again more studies are needed to determine if it might be of benefit in future.
*Recommendation: take as an oral supplement or eat vitamin C rich foods to boost your immune system.
Should your vagina smell like roses? The real deal about douches, deodorants and wipes.
5) Douching
The official recommendation of the NHS is… don't do it. Many women make homemade recipes to insert into the vagina. Douching may be associated with increased risk of cancer, ectopic pregnancy and infections.
There is a study that recently reported an association between douching and ovarian cancer, however, more research is needed. Substances such as hydrogen peroxide, tea tree oil and other essential oils can lead to inflammation, infection and erosion or the protective mucous walls of the vagina, leaving you ore prone to both yeast and sexually transmitted infections – and as such, they're not recommended for intravaginal use.
*Recommendation: use plain soaps without perfumes to wash the external skin and allow your vagina to clean itself naturally.
6) Deodorants, wipes and perfumes
The vagina has its own natural scent. Trying to add various perfumes and products can change its pH and out you at risk of an infection. The ingredients in those products could also be an irritant to the lining of the vagina. (If you find there is a changed or odd odour, it is best to see your GP to rule out the possibility of infection.)
*Recommendation: don't use deodorants, wipes or perfumes near or in the vagina.
7)Steam sitz bath with herbs and aromatics.
A sitz bath is a warm shallow bath often recommended for relieving haemorrhoids or itching in the nether regions. These days, however – perhaps inspired by Gweneth Paltrow's vaginal or 'yoni' steaming – spa treatments are trending with claims that a steam bath variant of the original sitz can help give your vagina a reviving boost.
Be aware that aromatic steam infiltrating your vagina could be risky as the steam can cause burns if too hot. It could also upset the bacterial balance, leading to an increased risk of infection.
*Recommendation: Avoid. There is no evidence this works for anything. Burn a nice smelling candle instead.
8)Lipstick glue for your lips down there.
A chiropractor developed a lipstick for labia which keeps them sealed shut while you have your period. When you urinate, the oil mixture "gluing" the lips together unseals for blood and urine to be released, and then you reapply again when you're finished.
*Recommendation: This controversial invention has been granted a patent but as yet there is no evidence regarding its safety or effectiveness. It is unclear if it is currently available for sale, but if so, perhaps best left untouched.
Balls, Drugs, Lube and Glitter:
If your thinking of vaginal tightening or balls that can improve you pelvic floor strength, then choose your products carefully.
9) Ben Wa, Geisha, Jade Balls: Tai Chi for your vaginal inner strength?
There are so many options that are available: Ben Wa Balls originate from Chinese Taoists. Geisha Balls and jade balls are variations on the theme to physiologically strengthen the pelvic floor. The balls are inserted vaginally and can be a reminder to practice your Kegel exercises several times a day or left in place for the day.
*Recommendation: Contrary to the 'cleansing, detoxing and clearing' hype surrounding jade balls, they are porous. That means the tiny holes in them can harbor bacteria, just like many other balls sold on the market. If using any balls for Kegels ensure they are made from medical grade material.
Consider using a pelvic floor monitor which is a portable silicone pelvic floor exercise tracker (with results sent to your smartphone) which is FDA approved and available in the UK.
10) Vagina tightening sticks: Majakani or crushed oak galls
Japanese majakani (derived from oak galls) vagina sticks have been around for a while. Whether it be in the form of a vagina stick or crushed oak galls (wasp nests – yes, you read that right, wasps nests) directly inserted into the vagina, neither is recommended.
There are many people who claim that it tightens and cleans the vagina with a combination of herbs and other components. However, the mechanism is basically dehydration of the tissues leading to a bit of temporary shrinkage. Remember that well-hydrated cells and your natural secretions of the vagina help the tissue remain healthy and robust. Dehydrating your vagina can lead to increased friction during sex which can be painful and can in turn make you more at risk of irritation and infection.
*Recommendation: don't dehydrate your vagina.
If you are worried about vaginal laxity there are a number of non-invasive techniques that are clinically proven to work – Femilift, Thermiva and Geneveve to name a few. These usually involve heat from laser, radio frequency or ultrasound that promotes collagen production to strengthen the walls of the vagina. (Tip: great for those ooops moments when you pee when you sneeze!)
11) Marijuana and alcohol in the vagina
People try to get a bigger or quicker buzz out of substances, using marijuana suppositories or alcohol-drenched tampons. The rate which you absorb oral medications or drugs is different to the concentration and rate absorbed by your vagina, so you might not be aware how much you are actually absorbing.
*Recommendation: don't put drugs, alcohol or medications in your vagina (unless the medications are prescribed by your doctor, of course).
12) Sex, sparkle and lube
Rhinestone sparkles are quite popular for bejazzling your vajayjay, so if you are going for the bling make sure you are not allergic to the glue (do a patch test first) and make sure it sticks on the landing strip area and goes nowhere near the vagina and more sensitive labia.
Glittery "Passion Dust" is a sweet edible powder that sparkles and is inserted an hour before sex. Not a good idea to be adding more sugar for bacteria to proliferate in.
Lube: avoid lubes that are flavoured or warming (they tend to contain more glycerin – a sugar alcohol) which can lead to more yeast proliferation. Also, oil based lubricants and Vaseline may be more difficult to break down and can alter the pH in your vagina.
*Recommendation: Not all people are prone to getting yeast infections, but if you are it helps to take some extra precautions and avoid products that may increase your risk. If unsure, always speak to your GP or health care provider first.
*Important: if you have a change in odour, a discharge or any discomfort, see your GP or visit your nearest sexual health clinic to rule out infection. *Never put any object that has been in the anus into the vagina unless it has been properly cleaned.
