A urinary tract infection, or UTI, is a condition typically caused by the E. coli bacteria, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Frequent sexual intercourse and the use of contraceptives increase the risk of urinary tract infections, particularly in women. Common symptoms include pain in the pelvic area and a burning sensation during urination. Although diet cannot cure a urinary tract infection, certain dietary choices may reduce the severity and frequency of infections.
Cranberries
Adding cranberries to your diet may help prevent a urinary tract infection. Researchers previously believed that this was because cranberries acidified urine, inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause infection; however, urine acidity does not affect bacterial growth, according to Gale Maleskey, author of "Nature's Medicines." Instead, cranberries help prevent bacteria from adhering to the walls of your urinary tract, allowing your body to flush them from your body.
Vitamin C-Rich Foods
Vitamin C is found in foods such as broccoli, spinach, avocados, citrus fruits, apples, kiwi fruit and canteloupe. This vitamin is a powerful antibiotic -- it may help increase white blood cell count to clear infection-causing bacteria from your bloodstream and urinary tract, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Vitamin C may also stimulate the manufacture of interferon, a natural antibody.
Garlic
Add minced garlic cloves to stir fry dishes, soups, casseroles, omelettes, curries and stews. Garlic is a natural immune system booster, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The New Healing Herbs." This may improve your body's natural ability to destroy bacteria that cause urinary tract infections. Garlic also contains allicin, a chemical compound that may offer antibacterial benefits. However, garlic can also thin your blood -- check with your physician before treating a urinary tract infection with garlic.
Zinc-Rich Foods
Zinc is a mineral that is found in foods such as lentils, kidney beans, oysters, eggs, soybeans, pumpkin seeds and whole-grain breads. This mineral may enhance immune system function to help your body clear out infection-causing bacteria, according to Balch. Zinc is also essential for rebuilding and strengthening the cells of your urinary tract.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Urinary Tract Infection
- "Nature's Medicines"; Gale Maleskey; 1999
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C. et al.; 2010
- "The New Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 2010
