Blueberries are not only a tasty, low-calorie snack, but they also contain no cholesterol and no sodium and are a great source of vitamins A and C, folic acid, iron and other nutrients. These berries, which are harvested in North America from April to October, have been used in foods and medicines for centuries. Similar to cranberries, blueberries are used to help prevent urinary tract infections.
Mechanism
Blueberries contain certain molecular compounds that help prevent urinary tract infections; however, blueberry-derived compounds do not have direct killing effects on the bacteria. Instead, blueberries prevent urinary tract infections by altering the bladder tissue in such a way that the bacteria are not able to adhere for long enough to establish an infection. Therefore, when the bladder is emptied during urination, the bacteria are flushed out along with the urine, and an infection is avoided. The compounds responsible for inhibition of bacterial adherence are called proanthocyanidins, and both blueberries and cranberries are rich in this substance.
Other Benefits
Eating foods rich in antioxidants and fiber may also help reduce the symptoms of a urinary tract infection, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Fortunately, blueberries are also rich in both dietary fiber and antioxidants, and therefore have added benefits in reducing urinary tract infections in addition to preventing bacteria from adhering to the bladder cell wall.
Blueberry Juice
UMMC also recommends drinking large amounts of fluids to help prevent urinary tract infections and reduce their symptoms. Frequent emptying of a full bladder helps flush out any bacteria that are located in the bladder or the ureter, which is the tube that carries urine from the bladder to outside the body. To harness all the benefits of blueberries while taking in plenty of fluids, try drinking blueberry juice instead of plain water.
Considerations
As with other fruit-based foods, foods and drinks made with blueberries sometimes contain a lot of extra sugar, which provides empty calories. Choose blueberry cocktail drinks that are sweetened with juice from other fruits, often apples, or juices that are sweetened with no-calorie sweeteners. Make sure that your total diet, including blueberry drinks and foods, do not provide you with excess calories, which may contribute to weight gain. As always, make sure to talk about the benefits of blueberries with a doctor who is familiar with your medical history to make sure you are being adequately treated for a urinary tract infection.
