Diet for Bladder Infection

Bladder infections (also called urinary infections or urinary tract infections) are a common condition, especially among pregnant women, the elderly and babies. The symptoms are minor and the condition can be treated relatively easily. If left untreated, a bladder infection can spread into the kidneys. Kidney infections can be serious, painful conditions that require hospitalizations and cause irreparable damage. The best treatment for bladder infections is prevention, and diet plays an important role in preventing bladder infections.

Bladder Infection

• A bladder infection is an inflammation of your body's urine producing system, including your kidneys, bladder and urethra. Bladder infections usually take place in your bladder or your urethra, the tube that carries urine from your bladder to the outside of your body. Bladder infections usually are treated with a round of antibiotics prescribed with directions to drink lots of water to flush out your system.

Causes

• Bladder infections are caused by common bacteria found on the skin, in the bowel or the stool. Sexual acts, catheters and normal bowel movements can all lead to bladder infections. Pregnant women are prone to bladder infections because their enlarged uteruses press down on their bladders and preventing urine from being completely emptied. Once the bacteria find its way into the bladder or urethra, it attaches to the lining and begins to multiply and cause infection.

Symptoms

• Both the sudden need to urinate frequently and the inability to urinate are symptoms of a urinary tract infection. If your urine is bloody, cloudy or smelly, it might also be a sign. Lower abdomen or back cramps or a burning sensation when urinating also are signs of a bladder infection. If you experience any of these symptoms, see your physician for a professional diagnosis.

Diet

• Drink lots of liquids, especially water. Water will flush the toxins and bacteria from your urinary system. You should take a multivitamin that includes vitamin C and zinc as well as vitamin A and calcium. It can boost your immune system and help you fight off all sorts of infections, including bladder infections. You might try drinking two to four cups of herbal tea, such as green tea or milk thistle. Both are thought to boost your immune system and contain antioxidants.

  Studies show that cranberries and blueberries contain epicatechin, an antioxidant that prevents bacteria from attaching to your bladder tissue. Because the bacteria cannot attach to your bladder lining, it has to pass through your body with your urine instead of multiplying and causing infection. Incorporate these foods into your diet to avoid the buildup of bacteria and subsequent bladder infections.

Other Prevention Methods

• You can take further steps, which do not involve your diet, to avoid bladder infections. Avoid wearing tight underwear or pants. Always wipe front to back after a bowel movement to prevent feces from finding its way into your urinary system. Avoid using soaps, deodorants or perfumes on your genitals and always wash with warm water after intercourse. Never hold your urine, either. Urinate as soon as you feel the need to and empty your bladder completely to avoid stagnate urine in your bladder.