When an infection invades any part of your body, it causes havoc in your entire system. Your body must divert much of its energy to eliminating the invader. Eating a healthy and nutritious diet during a kidney infection can help your body do just that. Healthy foods not only provide a much-needed boost of energy but also supply the nutrients your body needs to remain strong and powerful.
Kidney Infections
A kidney infection typically begins when bacteria invade your urethra or bladder, causing a urinary tract infection. If this infection goes untreated and progresses, it moves into the kidneys, where it evolves into a kidney infection. Occasionally, a type of bacteria that travels through the bloodstream might also cause an infection in the kidneys. This route of infection is relatively rare, however, notes the Mayo Clinic. A kidney infection generally causes pain in the abdomen, back, side and groin. Additional symptoms might include fever, nausea, frequent urge to urinate and burning during urination. Treatment for a kidney infection generally involves the use of antibiotic medications. Drinking plenty of fluids, applying heat to the area and taking pain medication can also help reduce the level of discomfort.
Foods to Eat
The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends eating cranberries and blueberries if you are prone to urinary tract infections. According to the center's website, these fruits help prevent bacteria from accumulating in the bladder. Other antioxidant-rich foods, including most fruits and vegetables, help boost the immune system and fight off invading bacteria. Fruits and vegetables also provide plenty of fiber, which helps flush toxins from the body. Additional high-fiber foods include whole grain breads, oats and legumes. Drinking plenty of fluids, such as water or tea, can also help treat or prevent an infection by flushing bacteria from the urinary tract.
Foods to Avoid
As of September 2011, no specific foods have been identified as being detrimental to patients with kidney infections. Avoiding certain foods can encourage faster healing, however. During the infection, avoid any foods to which you have an allergy, sensitivity or intolerance. Consuming these foods can cause chaos within your body, which diverts energy from fighting the kidney infection. Also avoid red meats, trans fats and refined foods, such as white bread and sugar. Your kidneys have a more difficult time digesting these types of food, and it needs all the rest it can get during an infection.
Other Nutritional Considerations
During a kidney infection, some people might experience severe nausea or vomiting. In this case, you may have difficulty maintaining sufficient intake of calories, nutrients and fluids. Over the course of a few days, an inadequate diet can lead to dehydration, weakness, fatigue and an impaired immune system. If your kidney infection has eliminated your appetite, consult your physician. In some cases, you can take prescription medications to help relieve nausea and vomiting. In other cases, you might need to rely on nutritional supplements to maintain nutrition during the infection. Your doctor can help you select the best option for your individual needs.
References
- National Kidney & Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse; Pyelonephritis (Kidney Infection) in Adults; June 2007
- Mayo Clinic; Kidney Infection; August 2011
- DaVita; Top 15 Healthy Foods for People with Kidney Disease; Sara Colman, RD, CSR, CDE
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Urinary Tract Infection in Women
