Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, occur when bacteria gets into the urethra, bladder or kidneys. UTIs affect more women than men and, according to the Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, one in five women will experience a urinary tract infection in her lifetime. Although UTIs are usually treated with antibiotics, to lessen the severity of the symptoms, it is also suggested that you avoid certain foods and beverages during an infection.
Alcohol
While experiencing a urinary tract infection, the University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that you prohibit alcohol, which can irritate the bladder and cause the urge to urinate. This frequent need to urinate is painful and can be very uncomfortable. Instead of drinking alcohol, replace it with pure water or unsweetened cranberry juice, which will alkalize the urine and help flush out the unwanted bacteria causing the infection.
Cofffee and Other Caffeinated Beverages
Drinking coffee or other caffeinated beverages like soda may exacerbate a urinary tract infection. The UTI Report states that caffeine irritates the lining of the bladder and can constrict blood vessels, which could result in high blood pressure. Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center recommends that you drink water over caffeinated beverages, especially during treatment. The medical center also suggests adding unsweetened cranberry juice to help flush out the bacteria faster and lessen the time you experience symptoms of a UTI.
Spicy Foods
If you are suffering from a urinary tract infection, you may want to avoid spicy foods such as Mexican, Thai and Creole cuisines until the infection is cleared. According to the Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, eating spicy foods that contain cayenne pepper, chili powder, habaneros and jalapenos can severely irritate the bladder and cause a painful burning sensation while urinating. UMMC recommends eating a bland, water-logged foods to help ease the pain and discomfort UTIs cause.
