6 Foods That Help Keep Urinary Infections at Bay

6 Foods That Help Keep Urinary Infections at Bay

For those suffering from urinary tract infections (UTI), the development often begins in the lower urinary tract, which includes the bladder and the urethra. Studoes have proven that women develop UTI more frequently than men. While food is not a treatment for UTI, it can definitely strengthen the body’s immune system and prevent further chances of infections. Here are some foods to help prevent UTI.

Berries
One of the best foods to help prevent UTI is all kinds of berries. Studies show that berries contain a compound called proanthocyanidin. This compound is helpful in preventing bacteria from sticking to the walls of the bladder. Berries are also high in antioxidants and that makes them generally healthier as a food choice. You can eat berries as a snack or drink unsweetened berry juices.

Vitamin-C-rich Fruits and Vegetables
When you include a lot of foods rich in this nutrient your diet, they make the urine more acidic and prevents the bacteria from growing in the urinary tract. Here are some of the vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables you can consume every day:

  • Guavas
  • Lemon
  • Oranges
  • Papayas
  • Tomatoes
  • Bell pepper
  • Broccoli
  • Kale
  • Snow peas

Probiotic Foods
Probiotics are good bacteria that the body needs these for digestive functioning and to keep bad bacteria from growing. There are a lot of different kinds of probiotic foods you can eat and drink. These best probiotic foods to help prevent UTI are

  • Yogurt
  • Kefir
  • Kimchi
  • Pickles
  • Buttermilk
  • Mozzarella, cheddar, and cottage cheese
  • Japanese miso

Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a popular spice that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. It is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory and hence can stop the growth of harmful microorganisms in the body. In most cases, the E. Coli bacteria are responsible for urinary tract infections. Many studies show cinnamon can prevent E. Coli from growing and colonizing in the body.

Garlic
Add garlic in everyday food that you cook and you will see your frequency of developing UTI slowly coming down. Garlic is an antimicrobial ingredient that can be a great remedy for all kinds of infections in the body.

Manuka Honey
This type honey has long been loved for its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. You can dilute Manuka honey in warm water and drink regularly to reduce the risk of developing a UTI.

All these foods to help prevent UTI acts by preventing the growth of bad bacteria in the body and by strengthening your body’s immune system against recurring infections. Apart from all these foods, drinking a lot of water and other beverages help flush away bad bacteria from the body. Lactose intolerace patients can also consider taking probiotic supplements that will bring down the chances of getting infected.