Blueberries for Bladder Infections

Blueberries are a delicious fruit that has recently been touted for its antioxidant capabilities. In addition to ridding our bodies of toxins, blueberries are a tasty way to prevent painful kidney and bladder infections.

Signs

• Basket of blueberries

  Signs of a bladder infection include a frequent need to urinate, burning or stinging sensation when urinating, blood in the urine, lower back pain, and feeling like you need to use the bathroom even immediately after urinating.

Susceptibility

• According to Dr. William Sears, M.D., females are more prone to these infections than males due to a shorter urethra. In females, bacteria has a shorter distance to travel to reach the bladder.

Bacteria

• Blueberries contain a chemical which is effective in fighting the bacteria that cause urinary tract infections. This chemical also prevents E. coli bacteria from multiplying.

Compounds

• Compounds called proanthocyanidins are found in both blueberries and cranberries. These compounds prevent bacteria from attaching to the wall of the bladder, forcing them to be destroyed.

Dose

• Blueberries have not been shown to cure a current infection, but they are helpful in preventing recurring episodes. A large handful of organic blueberries or glass of pure blueberry juice without additives taken in the morning will provide your body with antioxidants and bacteria-fighting agents essential to preventing infection.