Foods to Avoid with a UTI: What Not to Eat During an Infection

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is the umbrella name used to describe a variety of infections that affect various areas of the urinary tract. UTIs are caused by bacteria entering the urinary system and causing an infection. Although it may not seem like it, even this system can be influenced by what you put in your body.

Understanding which foods to avoid when you have a UTI can prevent exacerbating symptoms and promote healing. This guide will walk you through the dietary dos and don’ts, including what to eat and drink for a UTI and unpack the debate around whether eating cranberries helps UTI cases.

Spicy foods are a big don’t when dealing with a UTI. Ingredients that give spicy food its hot flavour, like hot peppers, can irritate the bladder and create a stronger urge to urinate often. Stick to milder flavours until your symptoms improve.

Acidic foods and drinks like citrus and tomatoes can also cause irritation in your bladder. Instead, opt for fruits with higher water content and lower acidity levels, like watermelon and cucumbers.

Drinking plenty of water is key in managing and preventing UTIs. Water helps to flush bacteria from the urinary tract without irritating the bladder. This helps in reducing the number of bacteria present and helps with recovery.

Foods rich in probiotics, like yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods contain good bacteria that help to keep bad bacteria from growing. For women, these probiotic-rich foods can also promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the vagina that may aid in preventing recurrent infections. You can also take probiotic supplements like Reuterina Femme to help in this process.

Constipation can put extra pressure on your bladder, exacerbating UTI symptoms. Foods high in fibre, such as whole grains, legumes, and vegetables, help maintain regular bowel movements and reduce strain on the urinary system.

For many years, people have posed the question “Does eating cranberries help UTI recovery?” Unfortunately, the answer isn’t a simple one. Cranberries have been shown to contain compounds shown to reduce inflammation, reduce the number of bacteria in your bladder, and help prevent bacteria from sticking to your bladder. However, scientifically speaking, there are very few studies to support cranberries having any tangible effect.

The truth of the matter is that consuming cranberry products when you have a UTI will do little harm. Luckily, there are other options. Antibiotic medications and some non-antibiotic medications like Canephron have been clinically proven to treat UTIs. In fact, Canephron has also been clinically proven to help reduce instances of infections returning. While eating cranberries may do no harm, be sure to support your recovery with other, proven treatment options for the best results.

Don’t let UTIs ruin your glow.

Unlock freedom from UTIs your nearest Clicks, Dis-Chem, or independent pharmacy today.