We all have heard of the TV advertisements talking about vaginal pH lowering washes. They are selling the products that help to manitain the pH of the vagina between 3.8 and 4.2. Any indifferent feeling down there - may be a different odour or over watery discharge denotes that the pH is off and might be some microbe thriving in your V-area. Though the women vagina are well equipped to protect and clean itself on its own, but certain dietary modifications or additions of certain foods in the diet can definitely help to maintain an optimal vaginal health. Here is a list of top foods for a healthy V -

1. Cranberry juice -Women often face the problem of urinary tract infections (UTI) may be on using a public toilet or not opting for safe sex practices etc. Any those who have this issue have to face its recurrence time and again. For them, consuming fresh and natural cranberry juice, without added sugar or cranberry extract supplement is the best option. They contain high amounts of antioxidants and acidic compounds which have powerful antibiotic properties which help to kill the harmful microbes. Also its a rich source of vitamin C which possesses strong immunity boosting properties.

2. Sweet potato - This tuber vegetable is women-friendly because the richness of carotenoids in it help in preventing bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common vaginal infection. Deficiency of Vitamin A and beta carotene has been linked to BV. Also the women who have polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) are benefitted by consuming this vegetable because its fibre content balances the insulin levels in the body. Insulin resistance is a common occurrence in women with PCOS.

3. Yoghurt - Yoghurt is a rich source of probiotics i.e. healthy bacteria which are not only healthy for the gut, but for the vaginal health too. They help in recovery from bacterial vaginosis by giving symptomatic relief from extra discharge and bad odour. It helps in the growth of only useful bacteria in the V area and maintains a pH balance down there.

4. Flaxseeds - Also known locally as 'alsi ke beej', these seeds possess a good amount of omega-3 fatty acids which have been found to improve blood flow and circulation, thus improving sex drive. Its also very good for dealing with vaginal dryness.

5. Berries - All the berries - blueberries, raspberries, strawberries and goji berries - are rich in antioxidants and improve the blood flow. Consumption of citrus fruits is linked with less likelihood of developing uterine fibroids and enhancement of fertility.

6. Avocados - This libido boosting fruit is an excellent source of healthy fats, vitamin B6 and potassium. It enhances lubrication and estrogen levels and is responsible for the success of IVF.

So add such foods in your diet along with healthy and well balanced diet for achieving optimum vaginal health. A single food alone may not be beneficial but little steps will lead to better results.