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To maintain good health and avoid urinary tract infections (UTIs), it's essential to understand the strong connection between UTIs and diet. The foods we consume daily can significantly affect the likelihood of developing UTIs, which impact millions of people each year. Certain foods and drinks can either increase or decrease your risk of these infections.

For example, a diet high in sugar can encourage the growth of harmful bacteria, while foods rich in antioxidants, such as cranberries, blueberries, and other fruits, all of them help naturally to stop the bacteria from entering the walls of the urinary tract.

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Tripti Raheja, a lead consultant in Obstetrics & Gynecology at CK Birla Hospital in Delhi, discussed the strong connection between UTIs and diet.

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According to Dr. Tripti, urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common health issue, particularly among women. While most people understand the importance of hygiene in preventing UTIs, few realize how significantly diet can influence both the risk and recurrence of these infections. Since the source of bacteria that causes infection in the urinary tract is often from the gut, diet can affect the bacterial composition of the stool, impacting UTIs. The urinary tract—which includes the kidneys, bladder, and urethra—relies on proper hydration and balanced pH to function optimally. Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining this balance and affects both the frequency and severity of infections.

Foods That Can Worsen UTIs

  1. Caffeine And Carbonated Drinks: These can irritate the bladder, leading to discomfort and increasing the risk of infection.
  2. High Sugar Intake: This can promote bacterial growth in the urinary tract. Artificial sweeteners may also have a similar irritating effect.
  3. Citrus Fruits: Although high in immunity-boosting vitamin C, highly acidic fruits like oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits can irritate the bladder and aggravate UTI symptoms. They can be consumed after an infection is cleared to boost immunity and prevent future infections.
  4. Spices And Alcohol: These can irritate the bladder lining, making it more susceptible to infection.

Foods That Can Help Prevent UTIs

  1. Cranberries, Raspberries, And Blueberries: These contain proanthocyanidins, which can help prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract lining, reducing the risk of infection.
  2. Probiotic-Rich Foods: Foods like yogurt and fermented foods support healthy gut flora, which helps prevent harmful bacteria from colonizing the urinary tract.
  3. Hydration: Drinking plenty of water is essential for flushing out toxins and bacteria from the urinary tract. Aim for at least 8 glasses a day.
  4. High-Fiber Foods: Fiber-rich foods like bananas, beans, lentils, nuts, oats, and other whole grains help keep the bowels moving, which relieves pressure on urine flow and helps remove harmful bacteria from the body.

Dr. Tripti emphasises that while medication and hygiene practices are vital for preventing and treating UTIs, diet also plays a crucial role in maintaining urinary health. By making mindful choices about what you eat and drink, you can significantly reduce the risk of recurrent infections. If you suffer from frequent UTIs, consider reviewing your diet with a healthcare provider to identify potential triggers and make necessary adjustments.