Urinary tract infections are bacterial infections of the bladder, kidneys, ureters or urethra. Bladder infections occur more commonly in women than in men, and can usually be successfully treated with antibiotics. Prevention of this painful condition comes from good hygiene along with drinking plenty of fluids. Even eating certain kinds of fruit may avert bladder and other urinary tract infections.
Cranberries
Cranberries and their European relative, lingonberries, contain a tannin compound called proanthocyanadins that may prevent some urinary tract infections, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Most bladder infections are caused by the E.coli bacteria. Tannins from cranberries and lingonberries discourage E. coli bacteria from sticking to the cells that line the urinary tract, thus helping to avert infection. Bladder infections may be caused by other organisms, however, including Staphylococcus, Klebsiella and Enterococci bacteria. Cranberries and lingonberries may not be effective against these infections.
Blueberries and Cherries
Blueberries share the tannic properties of cranberries, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, but they also have another benefit. Along with cherries, blueberries are high in antioxidants, compounds that help fight inflammation. Eating antioxidant rich foods can help prevent or reduce the symptoms of bladder infections in women. High fiber foods also help promote urinary tract health, and fresh fruits like blueberries and cherries are high in dietary fiber.
Plums and Prunes
The natural acidity of urine helps keep it free of bacteria, according to Women's Health Specialists, a consortium of feminist women's health centers in California. Plums and prunes help keep the urine acidic, and thus can be eaten freely as part of a healthy diet for bladder infection prevention. Drinking prune juice, plum juice, and cranberry juice can also help prevent bladder infections, from both the nutrient content of the fruit and the effect of the liquid in flushing out the urinary tract. Drinking ample amounts of water can also prevent bladder infections.
Fruits to Avoid
Despite the acidity in a fresh orange, lime or lemon, citrus fruits and most other fresh fruits make the urine more alkaline and less acidic, according to Dr. Gabe Mirkin at Quackwatch. Avoid citrus fruits and juices as well as cataloupes, raisins, dates and figs for optimal bladder infection prevention, according to Women's Health Specialists. Consuming sweetened fruit juices, coffee and food allergens may also contribute to urinary tract infections, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Consult a physician for prompt treatment whenever you experience pain on urination or blood in the urine, as antibiotics may be necessary to end a bladder infection if prevention has been unsuccessful.
