Keeping your “Honey Pot” Healthy by Limiting Sugar Intake

Sugar has become a staple in the American diet. We consume sugar in food or beverages several times a day without regard to what excess sugar does to the body. For some it is the coke we crave around 2:00 pm to get us through the second half of the workday; for others, it is the bowl of ice cream we have secretly when the kids are down for bed. If we are not conscious of our diet, many of us can consume three to four sweet treats a day.

Take a moment to think about your daily sugar intake. Look at the labels of some of your favorite foods and drinks. The sugar content can be found in processed foods, artificial sugars, and high-carb items sitting in your pantry.

Don’t worry. I’m not going to tell you to throw out your favorite cookie or ice cream. I hope that you become aware of the sugar content in your diet and hold yourself accountable for what you put inside your body.

You have completed the first step and have an accurate assessment of your daily sugar intake. Are you ready to take on the challenge of decreasing your daily amount of sugar? Would learning the possible effects of excess sugar on your vagina and sexual health be enough to encourage you to improve your diet? Before you say no, take a moment to see how excess sugar can disrupt the ph of your vagina.

Below I have listed common adverse effects of a high sugar diet and diabetes:

Yeast Infections (thick, white “cottage cheese” vaginal discharge): Elevated and uncontrolled blood sugar levels are associated with a higher risk of yeast infections. Yeast feeds on sugar. The excess sugar in your body can lead to uncontrolled growth in the vagina. Making healthy food choices and decreasing sugar intake can be one of the preventative measures for vaginal yeast infections.

Bacterial Vaginosis (foul white, green, gray vaginal discharge): When there is excess sugar in the diet, it can compromise your immune response. When there is a depressed immune system (along with a vaginal imbalance), it can result in bacterial vaginal infections.

Urinary Tract Infection: (frequent, painful urination) when there is excess sugar in the urine, it can serve as a breeding ground for bacteria. To decrease the risk of UTI, decrease intake of sugar; increase water intake; and do not delay emptying the bladder when full.

Vaginal Dryness: Diabetes can impair blood flow. When there is a decreased blood flow to the vagina, it can limit lubrication. Consider water-based lubricant to decrease dryness and make sex more pleasurable.

Decreased Sex Drive: Women with diabetes can experience low libido. A healthy diet and exercise are examples of lifestyle changes you can make to increase your sexual drive. Always keep open communication with your spouse and healthcare provider.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider. Discuss what lifestyle changes can be incorporated into your daily routine. Decrease your intake of processed foods and replace them with fruits and vegetables. Start with one small change a day. Remember to always make wellness your best accessory!

Your Sister in Wellness,

Lauren