Urinary tract infections, also called bladder infections or UTIs, refer to infections that typically begin in the lower urinary tract. They often cause a frequent urge to urinate, a burning sensation during urination and bloody, cloudy or pungent-smelling urine. According to MayoClinic.com, women are more prone to more UTIs than men and, though they are treatable, they can lead to serious complications if they worsen and spread. In addition to medications, certain foods may alleviate UTIs.
Cranberries and Blueberries
Cranberries and blueberries provide numerous nutritional benefits. They are rich in antioxidants which strengthen the immune system and help the body combat infections. They also provide dietary fiber, hydration and relatively few calories. For these reasons they are considered nutrient-rich, calorie-poor foods. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, cramberries, blueberries and lingnonberries--a European derivative of cranberries--provide compounds called tannins which may prevent strains of bacteria from attaching to urinary tract cells and reducing infection. Drinking cranberry juice at the onset of a UTI may help decrease the number of symptoms a person experience and lessen the frequency of infections in women with recurrent UTIs.
Probiotics
Probiotics, also called "good" for "friendly" bacteria, may help remedy UTIs. They function similarly to healthy bacteria in the body and are known to improve digestive health and counteract toxic bacteria. According to the UMMC, probiotics may also protect the urinary tract and genitals from infections. Valuable food sources of probiotics include yogurt with live cultures, kefir, which is a yogurt-like beverage, fermented miso, tempeh buttermilk, kim chi, a type of fermented cabbage, sauerkraut and foods and beverages fortified with probiotics.
Vitamin C-Rich Foods
Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble nutrient present in numerous fruits and vegetables that helps support the body's immune system. According to women's health expert Christiane Northrup, vitamin C may also help prevent reinfection, which many women experience once they've developed one bladder infection. She also suggests vitamin C when a person suspects the onset of a UTI, such as following frequent or aggressive or painful sexual activity. Positive sources of vitamin C include red bell peppers, papaya, oranges, grapefruit, citrus juices, tomatoes, tomato juice, cantaloupe, kiwifruit, kale and cauliflower. Since hydration is important during treatment and recovery from UTIs, ample intake of a variety of fruits, vegetables and juices throughout each day may reduce accelerate the healing process.
