A kidney infection, or pyelonephritis, occurs when bacteria spreads from the bladder into the kidneys. Bacteria may enter the kidneys as a result of a bladder infection, surgery, catheter insertion or a urinary tract blockage. Kidney infections are diagnosed by a urine test that detects bacteria and white blood cells. A kidney infection is often treated with a round of antibiotics. However, consuming certain foods may aid your recovery and prevent a recurrence.
Cranberry Juice
Consuming an 8-oz. serving of cranberry juice daily may help prevent another kidney infection. Cranberry juice prevents harmful bacteria from sticking to the walls of your bladder. Cranberries contain powerful antioxidants, which shield the body from toxic agents. Two antioxidants found in cranberries include proanthocyanidins and vitamin C. Both antioxidants help boost the immune system by potentially decreasing the quantities of bacteria present in your bladder and lowering the recurrence rate of infection.
Vitamin A
According to a study published in "The Journal of Urology," consuming a combination of vitamins A and E with your antibiotic may help alleviate kidney inflammation. Additionally, vitamin A helps decrease scarring in the kidneys after an infection occurs, according to a 2011 study published in the "European Journal of Pediatrics." Vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant, contributing to immune functioning by aiding in wound healing and cellular development. Rich sources of vitamin A include sweet potatoes, pumpkin, cantaloupe, peaches, spinach and cabbage.
Vitamin E
Consuming vitamin E with vitamin A and your antibiotic may help reduce swelling in your kidneys during recovery. Taking vitamin E with vitamin C can aid in decreasing kidney scarring after an infection ensues, according to a 2011 animal study published in "Advanced Urology." Vitamin E is another potent antioxidant that protects your body against free radicals and decreases the damage caused by invading toxins and harmful bacteria. Good food sources of vitamin E include liver, nuts, avocados, sunflower seeds, eggs, spinach and asparagus.
Water
While water possesses little nutritional benefit, this necessary fluid helps flush out bacteria and keep urine clear. Urinary tract infections are sometimes caused from urine flowing back into the kidneys from the bladder. Consuming enough water to produce clear urine helps decrease the amount of bacteria returning to the kidneys. Drink at least eight 8-oz. servings of water to prevent recurrent kidney infections.
References
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign; Urinary Tract Infections in Women; 2008
- University of Maryland Medical School: Cranberry
- National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse; Pyelonephritis (Kidney Infection) in Adults
- "The Journal of Urology"; Suppression of Renal Inflammation with Vitamins A and E in Ascending Pyelonephritis in Rats; Robert T. Bennett, et al.; May 1999
- "European Journal of Pediatrics"; The Effect of Vitamin A on Renal Damage Following Acute Pyelonephritis in Children; P. Ayazi, et al.; March 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Vitamin A (Retinol)
