Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are infections of the kidneys, bladder, and urethra. These infections are 10 times more common among women than men, with more than half of women experiencing a UTI at least once in their lifetime. Most of the time, a doctor will prescribe antibiotics to treat these infections. For some patients, though, a UTI will recur within 6 months of the initial episode. In these cases, complementary treatment may be necessary, including a diet rich in antioxidants and polyphenols. Let’s look at 7 of the best foods to add to your diet to combat frequent UTIs.
1) Water
Water is one of the best and simplest ways to treat a UTI and to prevent future infections. Among other health benefits, drinking sufficient water can help flush out the harmful bacteria setting up camp in your bladder.
2) Blueberries
Blueberries are packed with those antioxidants and polyphenols that help your body fight infections. They also prevent bacteria from binding to cells in the urinary tract, and boost your immune system. Add blueberries to smoothies and desserts or eat them whole.
3) Dark Chocolate
Dark Chocolate is another snack that is rich in antioxidants. It’s lower in sugar than milk chocolate, but it’s still chocolate, so use it sparingly.
4) Garlic
Garlic is often touted as a natural antibiotic. Raw garlic is best, but you can try garlic tea if you don’t feel like eating a garlic clove. Or you can add it to a vegetable smoothie for an extra boost.
5) Cranberry
Cranberry is the most commonly recommended UTI remedy, but it doesn’t work the way you think it does. Rather than curing the infection, it works to prevent bacteria from attaching to the bladder and worsening the infection.
7) Hibiscus
If we can include water and omega-3s in a list of food-based remedies, herbs (or to be more specific, flowers) can be included too. Hibiscus is one of the best known anti-UTI herbs. Drink it as tea or take it in pill form like Harmony (Amazon), which combines hibiscus with the beneficial D-mannose sugar from cranberries.
6) Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega 3 will address certain nutrient deficiencies that may be weakening your immune system. They will also help reduce inflammation and ease irritation. Find Omega 3 fats in cold water fish like salmon, or use fish oil supplements like Viva Naturals Triple Strength (Amazon).
While you’re recovering from a UTI, be sure to avoid foods and beverages high in sugar and/or acid. Orange or tomato juice, soda and sugary juices, and sweet junk food can prolong the infection and even make it worse. If symptoms don’t get better after a week, visit Christian Health Centers for patient-focused, affordable healthcare.
