Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are infections of the urinary system and are quite common in women. They usually occur when bacteria enters and infects the urinary tract.
Symptoms of UTIs include burning sensation while urinating, frequent urination, and abdominal pain. Though UTIs are easily treatable with antibiotics, they can be uncomfortable and painful. However, proper diet and nutrition can help prevent and fight UTIs. Here are some foods that can help you fight UTIs.
1. Cranberries
Cranberries are one of the most popular foods that help prevent UTIs. They contain a natural compound called Proanthocyanidins (PACs), which helps to prevent E. coli bacteria from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract. E.
coli is one of the bacteria responsible for most UTIs. Cranberries are available in juice, dried, and fresh form. Drinking cranberry juice, or adding cranberries to your diet in other forms, can help reduce the risk of getting UTIs.
2. Blueberries
Like cranberries, blueberries contain antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. These properties help to prevent UTIs and promote overall urinary health.
Blueberries contain a compound called Epicatechin, which helps to prevent bacteria from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract. Consuming blueberries on a daily basis can help reduce the incidence of UTIs.
3. Yogurt
Yogurt is packed with probiotics, which are good bacteria that keep your gut and urinary tract healthy. Consuming probiotics regularly helps to prevent UTIs by disrupting the growth of harmful bacteria in the urinary tract.
Yogurt also contains Lactobacillus, a type of good bacteria that can help to prevent UTIs. Adding yogurt to your diet can help promote a healthy urinary tract.
4. Garlic
Garlic contains a compound called Allicin, which has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help fight UTIs. Adding garlic to your diet may help prevent and reduce the risk of UTIs.
Garlic is also known to promote overall immune health and has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties.
5. Broccoli
Broccoli is a nutrient-dense vegetable that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It also contains a compound called Sulforaphane, which has antibacterial properties that can help fight UTIs.
Sulforaphane helps to boost the immune system and reduces inflammation in the urinary tract. Consuming broccoli on a regular basis can help promote overall urinary tract health.
6. Green Tea
Green tea is a popular drink known for its health benefits. It contains antioxidants and antimicrobial properties that can help fight UTIs.
Green tea also contains a compound called Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG), which has been shown to prevent the growth of E. coli bacteria in the urinary tract. Drinking green tea regularly can help to promote a healthy urinary tract.
7. Water
Staying well-hydrated is important for maintaining a healthy urinary tract. Drinking water helps to flush bacteria out of the urinary tract, reducing the risk of UTIs.
It is recommended to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day to promote overall urinary tract health.
8. Apples
Apples are a great source of dietary fiber, which can help promote urinary tract health. Fiber helps to regulate bowel movements and prevents constipation.
When you’re constipated, your bladder may not empty completely, which increases the risk of developing a UTI. Consuming apples and other foods high in dietary fiber can help ensure proper bowel movement and prevent UTIs.
9. Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which are known to promote immune health. They also contain dietary fiber, which can help promote a healthy urinary tract.
Sweet potatoes contain a compound called Beta-carotene, which helps to reduce inflammation and boost the immune system. Adding sweet potatoes to your diet can help prevent UTIs and promote overall health.
10. Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, are high in Vitamin C. Vitamin C is known to boost the immune system and promote a healthy urinary tract.
Vitamin C helps to make the urine more acidic, which kills bacteria and prevents the growth of harmful bacteria in the urinary tract. Consuming citrus fruits on a regular basis can help prevent UTIs.