Natural Health: What can I do to reduce my risk of developing thrush again?

Plus, my bed-bound father is coughing up phlegm, can we give him anything to help?

Megan Shepard says the most common triggers for thrust are birth control use, oestrogen-based medications, antibiotics, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Picture: iStock 

I got thrush during my last pregnancy, which was very uncomfortable and made sex difficult. I’m planning on having a second baby and want to reduce my risk of developing the infection again. What would you recommend?

Vaginal thrush occurs when there is an imbalance of the bacteria Candida albicans

It is quite normal to have this bacterium present in the gastrointestinal tract and vagina. However, it can multiply out of control, which is what causes the problematic symptoms you experienced.

The most common triggers are birth control use, oestrogen-based medications, antibiotics, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth.

The natural remedy range that I recommend for candida balancing is Kolorex, which utilises the natural anti-fungal properties of a New Zealand native herb called Horopito (Pseudowintera colorata). In your case, I would suggest the vaginal care capsules to help to balance the microflora in your vaginal tract. Visit the website at kolorex.com to find out where you can purchase Kolorex products.

Diet may also play a role in treating and preventing thrush, with sugar reduction or elimination often an important first step. Certain fermented and yeast-rich foods may also trigger candida overgrowth. These include marmite, bread, soft or blue cheeses, or kombucha. For some, even edible fungi may need to be off the menu until their system is back in balance.

Support your digestion with a quality probiotic supplement, and ensure that you add garlic to your main meals for natural protection against fungus and yeast. Soluble fibre, such as psyllium husks, taken in the evening before bedtime can also help to support detoxification and prevent the absorption of toxins, antigens, and particles from candida as it dies off.

My elderly dad spends most of the day in bed and is having difficulty coughing up phlegm. Is there a remedy we could give him?

Being mostly bed-bound will certainly make it difficult for your Dad to shift phlegm from his chest.

Irish Botanica Botanical Syrup has been formulated by herbalist David Foley to help support all types of stubborn coughs as well as to provide year-round immune system support. This blend includes honey, vitamin C, and mullein along with six other lung-supportive herbs — white horehound, plantain, liquorice, ginseng, cinnamon, and anise.

Botanical Syrup can help ease coughs, loosen and clear mucous, and fortify his immune system. A 150ml bottle costs €19.99 from naturalife.ie. Irish Botanica also makes a Throat Coat Oral spray for those who are experiencing a sore throat with their cough.

Zinc is crucial for immune function, helping to fight infection and aiding in the production and activation of white blood cells. It supports the integrity of mucous membranes lining the throat, which act as a barrier against infection.

If your Dad is a tea drinker, you might like to prepare a herbal infusion using sage, thyme, and local raw honey. Common garden sage (Salvia officinalis) is a potent anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant.

The astringency of sage helps to tone the mucous membranes and also works as an expectorant, helping to loosen phlegm, clear congestion and ease coughing. Since it also has mild analgesic properties, it contributes to pain relief as well.

Thyme is strongly antiseptic, due to the constituent thymol, which makes it an excellent choice for respiratory infections.

Raw honey not only helps with the flavour and sweetness, it also helps to stop irritation and thin out phlegm while providing antimicrobial support.

NOTE: The information contained in this column is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a doctor.