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Food & Urinary Tract Infections

A urinary tract infection, also called a UTI, can occur in the bladder, kidneys, urethra or ureters. In serious cases, UTIs may require hospitalization, but most infections are quite mild and can be dealt with at home. Home treatment of urinary tract infections often involves consuming or avoiding specific foods. Not all UTI home remedies are effective, however. It's important to learn which ones really work.

  1. Hydration

    • Proper hydration helps the body flush out the bacteria. People with UTIs may notice they have to urinate much more often than normal. Drinking large quantities of water, unsweetened teas and similar drinks may help. Proper hydration encourages quicker healing. It also dilutes the urine, reducing discomfort while urinating.

    Antioxidants

    • Antioxidant foods, including tomatoes, cherries, blueberries and cranberries, may encourage the body to heal more quickly. Cranberry juice is a traditional remedy for UTIs, and contains substances that prevent bacteria from living in bladder tissue. Regular consumption of unsweetened cranberry juice may even prevent UTIs from occurring.

    Avoid

    • Some substances may aggravate UTI symptoms. Caffeine, alcohol, and strong citrus drinks may irritate the bladder and urinary tract, and make urination more painful. Sweetened beverages may encourage bacterial growth and increase irritation. The University of Maryland Medical Center also recommends against refined carbohydrates and red meat while suffering from a UTI.

    Herbal Treatment

    • Herbal teas may help the body recover from a UTI more quickly. Low-caffeine green teas have antioxidant effects and may boost the immune system. Uva ursi, or bearberry, is a relative of the cranberry, and has similar effects. Taking both Uva ursi and cranberry together may help clear up a urinary tract infection more quickly.

    Warning

    • According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, frequent UTIs may be a sign of food allergies. While suffering from a UTI, it may be wise to eliminate potential allergens from the diet, including wheat, corn, food additives and preservatives, and dairy foods. If recurrent UTIs are common, it may be appropriate to ask a health care provider to perform a food sensitivity or allergy test to rule out this cause.

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