Fungi or fungal infections can cause a host of health problems in humans, including infectious diseases, allergies, and much more.

Certain foods and herbs, however, contain potent antifungal compounds that can help strengthen our immune system, fight fungal infections, and support overall health. Here is a list of the top fungi-fighting foods to enhance your immune system and prevent fungal infections.

1) Garlic

Garlic is a pungent but powerful anti-fungal food that has been used since ancient times to address various ailments. It contains allicin, a potent compound that has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Consuming garlic can also support the liver’s detoxification process, which in turn improves immunity and reduces body inflammation.

2) Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice that is commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine. It contains curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that is known for its antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties.

Additionally, studies have shown that turmeric can help to improve gut function and reduce systemic inflammation.

3) Coconut oil

Coconut oil is a healthy fat that is loaded with medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), including caprylic, capric, and lauric acids. These fatty acids have potent antifungal properties and have been found to help fight fungal infections like Candida.

Coconut oil is also helpful in reducing inflammation, balances hormones and supports immunity.

4) Ginger

Ginger is a potent herb that is commonly used to treat various health conditions. It contains gingerols, which are potent anti-inflammatory compounds that help to improve the immune system and fight off fungal infections.

Ginger is also beneficial to the digestive system, helps with stomach issues and nausea caused by fungal infections.

5) Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a fermented food that is rich in friendly bacteria and enzymes that help to improve gut health. It contains acetic acid, which is an alkalizing agent for the body and has been shown to have potent antifungal properties.

Consuming apple cider vinegar every day can improve your digestive system, and keep fungal infections at bay.

6) Fermented foods

Fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, miso, kefir, and yogurt are loaded with friendly bacteria that support gut health.

The probiotics in fermented foods help to boost immunity, lower chronic inflammation and inhibit the growth of harmful fungal infections. Consuming fermented foods can keep fungal infections at bay and help balance the gut microbiome.

7) Pau D’Arco tea

Pau D’Arco tea is a potent herbal tea that is made from the bark of the South American Tabebuia tree. It contains lapachol, a compound that has potent antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties.

Consuming Pau D’Arco tea can boost immunity, strengthen the body’s natural defense mechanism, and inhibit the growth of harmful fungal infections.

8) Onions and Shallots

Onions and shallots contain sulfur components, particularly allicin, which have antifungal and antibacterial properties. Besides sulfur content, these vegetables are high in various vitamins and minerals, which support overall health and immunity.

9) Clove

Cloves have antifungal properties due to the presence of various compounds, mainly eugenol, which have potent anti-inflammatory properties. Cloves can help to inhibit the growth of several fungal strains and boost immunity against fungal infections.

10) Olive oil

Olive oil is a healthy fat that is loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. It contains oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol, which have potent antifungal properties.

Consuming olive oil can improve immunity, reduce chronic inflammation and inhibit the growth of harmful fungal infections.

Incorporating these fungi-fighting foods into your diet can go a long way in strengthening your immune system, keeping your gut healthy, and preventing fungal infections.

However, if you have chronic or recurring fungal infection, it’s important to seek medical attention from a healthcare professional.