Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, and anemia can be the result of a lack of vitamins and a weakened immune system. A UTI is an infection of any portion of your urinary system including your kidneys, ureters, bladder or urethra. Anemia occurs when your body does not make enough red blood cells to supply your tissues with adequate oxygen. Although both conditions require diagnosis by a doctor, vitamins can help boost your immune system and fight off infections.
Vitamin C
The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends that you consume 500 to 1,000 mg of Vitamin C one to two times per day if you are prone to UTIs. Vitamin C helps to build your immune system and fend off infections. Vitamin C is also an antioxidant that can help to prevent bacteria from sticking to the lining of your bladder, where it can colonize and cause infection. Vitamin C also helps to increase the acidity of your urine. An acidic environment discourages bacteria from flourishing. Vitamin C can also increase iron absorption, which can help if you have anemia. Sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, red peppers, strawberries and kiwi.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A can help decrease the risk of many infections. The University of Michigan Health System explains that promising research links vitamin A supplements to reduced risk of infections and infection prevention. If you have a vitamin A deficiency, the University of Michigan Health System recommends 10,000 to 25,000 IU daily to correct it. For adults over the age of 19 without a deficiency, the Office of Dietary Supplements recommends 3,000 IU for men and 2,310 IU for women. Sources of vitamin A include liver, orange fruits, orange vegetables, green leafy vegetables and products fortified with vitamin A, such as milk.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Found in capsules, oil and cold-water fish, such as salmon and halibut, omega-3 fatty acids can help decrease inflammation, including that in the bladder, and are beneficial for maintaining your overall health. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends one to two capsules or tablespoons of fish oil per day. If you take blood-thinning medication, talk to your doctor before beginning omega-3 fatty acid supplementation.
Iron
Anemia can leave you feeling tired, weak and more susceptible to infections. Obtaining adequate amounts of iron from your diet can help to control anemia. Sources of iron include meats, leafy green vegetables, legumes, beans, dried fruits and fortified products, such as cereals. You can also take iron in supplement form. The National Institutes of Health indicates that individuals over the age of 14 should consume 45 mg of iron daily. Young children between the ages of 1 and 3 should consume 40 mg. Children 7 to 12 months need 40 mg of iron as well.
