UTI: Foods To Eat And Avoid
A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) occurs when a person’s bladder or urinary tract gets infected by bacteria. This can cause problems while urinating. Those who have UTI need to avoid certain foods that can worsen their symptoms. There are foods that can help provide relief from symptoms. This article lists the foods to eat and avoid for UTI.
Drink Plenty Of Water
When it comes to foods to eat and avoid for UTI, one of the first tips to talk about is water. It is not food but drinking plenty of water is very helpful for those who have UTI. Water helps to flush out bacteria and dilutes the urine.
Ideally, one should drink 1.2 to 1.5 liters of water every day to remain healthy.
Avoid Caffeine
People need a caffeine boost through coffee or tea. Unfortunately, caffeine is one of the foods that irritate the bladder. It can worsen the symptoms of UTI and must be avoided. One can consider drinking herbal tea instead.
Include Cranberry And Blueberry In Your Diet
Cranberries have been used for many years to fight UTI. Cranberry juice (without sugar) can be helpful in treating UTI and reducing its symptoms. Blueberries also work in the same way and can be eaten to help improve the symptoms of UTI.
Take Probiotics
Probiotics are foods containing good bacteria. These good bacteria help in digestion and also keep bad bacteria away. Consuming more probiotics is strongly recommended. Yogurt, kefir, tempeh, and sauerkraut are good sources of probiotics.
Eat More Of Fiber
Foods that are rich in fiber should be eaten if one has UTI. Whole grains, bananas, apples, legumes, avocados, and nuts have high levels of fiber and must be included in the diet for those who have UTI.
Fiber ensures proper bowel movement. This eases pressure on the abdomen and the bladder allowing normal flow of urine. When the digestive system works well, it is helpful even for the urinary system.
Avoid Acidic Fruits
Acidic fruits like lemons, oranges, and grapefruits can lead to higher acid levels, which can worsen the symptoms of UTI. Other fruits like apples, grapes, tomatoes, or peaches can also be avoided to avoid worsening UTI symptoms.
Avoid Spicy Foods
Spicy foods are tasty but they can irritate the bladder. This can worsen the symptoms of UTI. It is better to avoid spicy foods while having UTI and prefer bland food.
Avoid Artificial Sweeteners
Some people use artificial sweeteners instead of sugar. Artificial sweeteners contain chemicals that can irritate the bladder and worsen UTI symptoms. Diet soda or any drinks with artificial sweeteners must be avoided while having UTI.
Avoid Caffeine
People need a caffeine boost through coffee or tea. Unfortunately, caffeine is one of the foods that irritate the bladder. It can worsen the symptoms of UTI and must be avoided. One can consider drinking herbal tea instead.
The article on foods to eat and avoid for UTI listed out an ideal diet for UTI patients. Care must be taken to avoid the foods mentioned in the article that can aggravate symptoms. The foods to eat should be a part of the diet to help manage the condition better.