Foods That Help Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are bacterial infections that are common among women and also occur in men. UTIs require antibiotics from a doctor and 30% of the time the infection will not come back. Needing to urinate more than usual, feeling urgency and pain during urination are a few of the signs to look for if you think you have a UTI. There are a few foods that you can use to ease a UTI and prevent future infections.

Fluids

• Drinking water flushes out the bacteria in the urethra and bladder. During a UTI you should drink a minimum of six to eight glasses of water a day. It's always better to try and drink more. If you need something with a bit more flavor, herbal teas are also fine. Be sure to avoid sweetened drinks and fruit juices.

Fiber

• Constipation is a risk during a urinary tract infection. Beans, oats, potatoes, yams and other root vegetables that contain a lot of fiber can help offset the challenge of constipation.

Antioxidants

• Cranberry and blueberry juice also contain substances that help the bladder flush out a UTI. If you get fruit juice, make sure it is in its pure form with no sugar added. Foods rich in antioxidants such as cherries, tomatoes, squash, and bell peppers are suitable for helping to prevent future infections.

Exercise

• Adding 30 minutes of exercise to your daily routine is also helpful in flushing out a UTI and preventing future infections. You may feel some discomfort during exercise while you have a UTI, but this will ease as the infection diminishes .

What to Avoid

• Make sure you don't eat anything you are allergic to, as this can prolong the length of infection. Avoid red meats and eat lean ones instead. Avoiding stimulants such as coffee, alcohol and tobacco will help your body and antibiotics fight against the infection. It's also good to remember to avoid all refined sugars.