Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are painful infections that can affect any portion of your urinary system -- including your urethra, ureters, kidneys and bladder. UTIs require treatment by a doctor, which usually includes an antibiotic. While acidic foods cannot cure a UTI, they can make it more difficult for bacteria to thrive in your urine and bladder.
UTIs
The University of Maryland Medical Center indicates that women are 10 times more likely to develop a UTI than males. Other than being female, risk factors for developing a UTI include being sexually active, having a new sexual partner, having multiple sex partners, being pregnant, having diabetes, having prior UTIs and holding your urine for extended periods of time. Symptoms of a UTI may include painful urination, a burning sensation during urination, cloudy urine, foul-smelling urine, the constant need to urinate, voiding little urine at a time, blood-colored urine, abdominal pain, chills, nausea and vomiting.
Oranges
Oranges, as well as orange juice, are a source of ascorbic acid or Vitamin C. Oranges are acidic, which helps create a poor environment for bacteria to flourish. The vitamin C found in oranges can also help boost your immune system. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends that individuals prone to UTIs consume plenty of vitamin C on a daily basis. You should consume 500 to 1,000 mg of vitamin C daily for the treatment and prevention of UTIs.
Cranberries
Cranberries and cranberry juice are acidic and can help prevent future urinary tract infections. The University of Michigan Health System recommends individuals prone to UTIs consume 400 mg of cranberry concentrate twice daily. You can also opt to drink 4 to 10 oz. of cranberry juice while receiving treatment for a urinary tract infection. Cranberry juice also contains powerful antioxidant properties that prevent bacteria from attaching to the walls of your bladder.
Other Acidic Foods
There are a number of different acidic foods that can benefit individuals with urinary tract infections. These foods can help reduce your symptoms, while preventing the growth of bacteria. Acidic foods include beef, sesame oil, rye, beans, peas, noodles, olive oil, fish, pork, salmon, shrimp, barley, corn, oats, soy milk, lard, cheese, wheat germ, potatoes, butter and milk.
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