Prevent UTIs With These 6 Foods

There aren’t many infections as irritating as a recurring UTI. Significantly reduce your chances of having to deal with another one with these 6 powerful inhibitors.

- Lisa Turner

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are painful, disruptive and all too common: More than half of adult women have had a UTI, and many have several recurrences every year. It happens when bacteria travel into the urethra, the duct through which urine passes; women are more susceptible because the urethra is shorter than in men, but guys can get them too. Left untreated, UTIs can have serious complications, including recurrent infections, urethral narrowing and kidney damage. While UTIs may not be completely avoidable, dietary choices can reduce your risk. Focus on anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and immune-boosting meals, drink plenty of water and try these six foods to ward off bacteria and protect your insides.

Cranberry juice may help prevent UTIs by keeping bacteria from adhering to the lining of the urinary tract. Though research is mixed, many studies show cranberry juice can decrease the recurrence of UTIs. A recent meta-analysis of seven clinical trials in healthy women found cranberry reduced the risk of developing a UTI by 26%. Because most cranberry juice drinks are loaded with sugar, stick to cranberry concentrates and mix them with water, or use the whole fruit. Try this: Sweeten cranberry juice concentrate with a little honey or stevia then mix with cherry juice, sparkling water and a squeeze of lime; chop whole cranberries in a food processor then combine with minced red onion, mango cubes, cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a zesty salsa.