Bladder infections, also known as urinary tract infections (UTIs), are a common health issue that affect millions of people each year. While antibiotics are often prescribed to treat bladder infections, many people are interested in using natural remedies, like foods and supplements, to cure their infection.
What is a bladder infection?
A bladder infection occurs when bacteria, often E. coli from the digestive tract, gets into the urethra and travels up to the bladder. Bladder infections can be extremely uncomfortable, causing symptoms like:
- A strong urge to urinate frequently
- A burning sensation when urinating
- Cloudy, bloody, or foul-smelling urine
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Low fever
If left untreated, the infection can spread to the kidneys and become much more serious. Therefore, it’s important to treat a bladder infection as soon as symptoms arise.
What causes bladder infections?
There are several factors that can increase the risk of developing a bladder infection:
- Female anatomy – Women have a shorter urethra than men, allowing bacteria quick access to the bladder.
- Urinary retention – When urine stays stagnant in the bladder and isn’t fully emptied.
- Blockage – Kidney stones, an enlarged prostate, structural abnormalities can block the flow of urine.
- Weakened immune system – Diabetes, malnutrition, and other issues compromise the body’s defenses.
- Catheters – The tubes allow bacteria to enter the urinary tract.
- Birth control methods – Diaphragms and spermicides can alter vaginal bacteria balance.
- Sexual intercourse – Friction can push bacteria into the urethra opening.
Practicing good hygiene, emptying the bladder fully, and staying hydrated can help prevent bacterial growth and bladder infection recurrence.
What foods may help cure a bladder infection?
While research is still limited, some foods and supplements are thought to help treat bladder infections by fighting infection-causing bacteria, reducing inflammation, and enhancing the immune system. Foods to consider trying include:
Cranberries
Cranberries contain proanthocyanidins that may prevent E. coli from adhering to the lining of the bladder, allowing it to be flushed out in urine. Cranberries are most effective when taken daily as a preventive measure.
Drink pure unsweetened cranberry juice or take cranberry capsules. Avoid juices with added sugar.
Blueberries
Like cranberries, blueberries contain antioxidant compounds that may interfere with bacterial adhesion in the urinary tract. Blueberries provide vitamin C to support immune function.
Enjoy fresh or frozen blueberries daily.
Pineapple
Pineapple is rich in bromelain, an anti-inflammatory enzyme that can help reduce swelling and discomfort caused by a UTI. It also contains vitamin C.
Eat fresh pineapple chunks or drink pineapple juice with no added sugars.
Yogurt
The probiotics, or healthy bacteria, found in yogurt can help restore vaginal flora and crowd out bad bacteria. Look for yogurt with live active cultures.
Choose a plain, unsweetened yogurt and eat at least one serving daily. Yogurt can also be consumed as a smoothie with fruit.
Kefir
Similar to yogurt, kefir provides probiotics that promote a healthy bacterial balance in the urinary tract. This fermented milk drink has a more diverse probiotic profile than yogurt.
Drink at least one cup of plain kefir per day.
Garlic
Garlic has antimicrobial properties that may be effective against E. coli. It also stimulates the immune system. Use fresh garlic in cooking regularly.
Aim for at least 1 clove of fresh garlic per day. Let crushed garlic sit for 10 minutes before cooking to enhance its benefits.
Ginger
Ginger has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects. It may help reduce bladder infection symptoms like pain.
Drink ginger tea or use fresh ginger in stir fries, soups, and other dishes.
Broccoli
Broccoli contains the compound sulforaphane which has bacteria fighting abilities. Broccoli is also packed with vitamins and minerals.
Enjoy broccoli steamed, roasted, or raw in salads.
Green tea
Green tea contains antioxidant compounds called catechins that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. It may help bladder cells resist infection.
Drink 2 to 3 cups of unsweetened green tea per day.
Pomegranate juice
Pomegranate juice is rich in antioxidants and may help prevent bacteria from adhering to bladder cells. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
Drink one cup of 100% pure pomegranate juice daily.
Fermented foods
Fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, miso, tempeh, pickles, and kombucha contain probiotics. These good bacteria help maintain regularity and healthy digestion.
Try incorporating a few servings of fermented foods into your diet each week.
Nuts and seeds
Nuts like almonds, walnuts, and peanuts contain nutrients like vitamin E, magnesium, and omega-3s that have anti-inflammatory benefits. Pumpkin, sunflower, and flax seeds do as well.
Enjoy an ounce a day of nuts and seeds. Add them to yogurt, fruit, or salads.
Other remedies for bladder infections
In addition to making dietary changes, other natural techniques may help resolve a bladder infection:
- Take a supplement like D-Mannose, an important component of cranberries
- Drink baking soda and water to reduce acidity in urine
- Take probiotic supplements to support vaginal flora
- Drink plenty of fluids like herbal tea and water
- Get enough rest and avoid rigorous exercise
- Consider essential oils like tea tree, sandalwood, and juniper berry
- Take warm baths with Epsom salts
- Wear loose, cotton underwear and avoid feminine products
- Practice stress management techniques
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed
Always see a doctor if UTI symptoms do not resolve within 24 hours or get worse. Recurring infections may require further treatment and evaluation.
When to see a doctor
You should make an appointment with your healthcare provider if:
- It is your first bladder infection
- You have recurring UTIs
- You are pregnant
- You have diabetes or issues managing blood sugar
- You have a weakened immune system
- You are over 65 years of age
- You have kidney problems
- You have structural abnormalities in your urinary tract
- You have a UTI that does not improve within 24 hours
- Your symptoms worsen or you develop a fever
- Natural remedies provide no relief
Your doctor can test a urine sample to identify the bacteria causing the infection. They may prescribe a course of antibiotics to clear the infection. Make sure to finish the entire course even if you feel better.
When to go to the ER
Seek emergency care right away if you experience any of the following severe symptoms:
- Very high fever
- Chills and shaking
- Pain in your lower back or side
- Nausea and vomiting
- Confusion or change in mental state
- Fainting or lightheadedness
- Fatigue so severe you cannot get out of bed
These may be signs that the infection has reached your kidneys and requires urgent treatment. Severe UTIs can be life-threatening.
Can certain foods trigger bladder infections?
Some foods may aggravate bladder infection symptoms or increase your likelihood of getting a UTI. Foods to limit include:
- Caffeine – Found in coffee, tea, soda and energy drinks. Irritates bladder lining.
- Alcohol – Beer, wine, liquor and mixed drinks. Alters gut bacteria.
- Spicy foods – Hot sauces, peppers, curries. Can inflame bladder.
- Tomatoes/citrus – Acidic fruits may provoke symptoms.
- Sugar – Added sugars feed bacteria growth.
- Artificial sweeteners – Associated with recurrent UTIs.
- Dairy products – Can be high in sugars. Some are sensitive.
Pay attention to any foods or beverages that seem to worsen your UTI. An elimination diet may help identify personal trigger foods.
What foods promote urinary tract health?
Focusing on foods that boost urinary tract health may help prevent painful bladder infections. Beneficial foods include:
- Water – Staying hydrated dilutes urine and flushes out bacteria.
- Fiber-rich foods – Fruits, vegetables, whole grains keep bowel movements regular.
- Unsweetened cranberry juice – Prevents bacteria adhesion in urinary tract.
- Pineapple – Bromelain reduces inflammation.
- Greek yogurt – Probiotics promote vaginal health.
- Blueberries – Antioxidants protect bladder cells.
- Green tea – Polyphenols may help resist infections.
A diet centered around whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, nuts, seeds, and beans provides important nutrients for immune function. Avoid excessive sugars, fried foods, and processed grains.
What vitamins help bladder infections?
Certain vitamins and minerals have properties that allow them to combat infection and support urinary tract health. Key nutrients include:
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that boosts immune function against bacterial infection. Excellent sources include citrus fruits, red peppers, broccoli, strawberries, and kiwi.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D enhances immunity by enabling the production of antimicrobial peptides that destroy bacteria. Get vitamin D from sunlight, fortified dairy products, and supplements.
Probiotics
Probiotic bacteria like lactobacillus help maintain a healthy urinary tract by balancing vaginal pH and microflora. Probiotic foods include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, etc.
Zinc
Zinc supports immune cell activity involved in fighting infection. Oysters, nuts, red meat, beans, and whole grains are good sources of zinc.
Magnesium
Magnesium has anti-inflammatory benefits and relaxes muscles in the bladder. Get it from leafy greens, nuts, legumes, whole grains, and some fish.
Conclusion
While antibiotics are typically used to treat bladder infections, some evidence shows that certain foods and supplements may also be beneficial. Focus on unsweetened cranberry products, fruits high in antioxidants and vitamin C, probiotic foods, anti-inflammatory spices, and key nutrients like zinc and magnesium.
Avoid any foods that seem to aggravate your UTI symptoms. Always see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment, especially if symptoms persist or worsen. Recurring UTIs may require additional evaluation.
With a combination of medical care and natural remedies, most bladder infections can be cleared up quickly. Paying attention to your diet and lifestyle habits can also help prevent painful UTIs from developing in the first place.