Urinary tract infections -- also known as UTIs -- are painful, uncomfortable infections of the urinary system. UTIs can affect the bladder, kidneys, urethra or ureters. The University of Maryland Medical Center indicates that nutritional deficiencies may lead to urinary tract infections. On the other hand, certain foods, drinks and additives should be avoided to help prevent repeat UTIs and to help reduce symptoms.
Urinary Tract Infections
The University of Maryland Medical Center indicates that UTIs are 10 times more likely to occur in females than in males. Additionally, pregnancy, diabetes, holding your urine for extended periods of to time and being sexually active can increase your risk of developing UTIs. Symptoms include pain or burning while urinating, the frequent urge to urinate, voiding little urine at a time, cloudy urine, foul-smelling urine, abdominal pain and fever. UTIs need to be treated by a doctor. A urine sample, physical exam and medical history are often used to diagnose a UTI. Antibiotics are required to treat these infections.
Foods, Drinks and Additives to Avoid
Products with caffeine -- such as coffee or chocolate -- should be avoided while you have a UTI. Caffeine is a stimulant that can irritate the lining of the bladder. If you are susceptible to UTIs, avoid eliminate potential food allergens from your diet -- these may include dairy and gluten. Refined and processed foods -- including white breads, sugars and pastas -- should be eliminated from your diet. Reducing trans fats from your diet can also be beneficial, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Trans fats are found in commercial baked goods and fried foods.
Foods, Drinks and Additives to Consume
The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends consuming six to eight glasses of filtered water daily. Water can help flush bacteria from your urine. Cranberries and cranberry juice -- along with other berry products -- can help to prevent bacteria from sticking to the walls of your bladder because of their antioxidant properties. Products with vitamin C -- such as cranberries or oranges -- can help to boost your immune system to prevent and fight off UTIs should you develop one. You should also consume plenty of fiber -- including beans, potatoes and yams.
Dosages
Cranberry juice can be used in the treatment and prevention of urinary tract infections. The University of Michigan Health System recommends drinking 4 to 10 oz. of cranberry juice daily. You can also consume 400 mg of cranberry concentrate, twice a day. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends consuming plenty of vitamin C -- especially if you are prone to UTIs. Consume 500 to 1,000 mg, once or twice a day. Omega-3 fatty acids -- found in cold-water fish, oil or capsules -- can reduce bladder inflammation. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends one to two capsules or 1 tbsp. of fish oil, consumed once or twice daily.
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