Treatment options for urinary tract infection

UTI›Treatment options for urinary tract infection

Once you’re diagnosed with UTI, your doctor will prescribe medications to treat UTI and to relieve any discomfort related to UTI^1–3

Women (due to shorter urethra, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder)

People with diabetes (weaker immune system)

People with urinary tract blockage (eg, due to kidney stones)

People with a catheter (tube) placed in their bladder for a long time

Does dietary changes work?⁴

Whether certain foods or beverages reduce the risk of developing a UTI is still unclear. However, some research suggest that certain dietary patterns may help protect against UTI

Plant-based diet

Vegetarian diets make urine less acidic, thus preventing the growth of bacteria related to UTI

Meat-based diet

Meat and poultry make urine more acidic, which act as ‘food reservoir’ for certain bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract

Water and fresh juices

Staying hydrated with water and consuming freshly squeezed juice reduce the risk for UTI

Bladder-irritating beverages

Intake of bladder-irritating beverages, such as coffee, tea, alcohol and carbonated drinks may worsen symptoms related to UTI

View the Purine Food Guide for a comprehensive food list

References

1 – National Kidney Foundation. Urinary tract infections. Available at: https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/uti. Accessed 8 June 2021.
2 – WebMD. Urinary tract infections. Available at: https://www.webmd.com/women/guide/your-guide-urinary-tract-infections. Accessed 8 June 2021.
3 – Healthline. Six home remedies for urinary tract infections. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/uti-home-remedies. Accessed 11 June 2021.
4 – Healthline. Can you diet affect your chances of getting a UTI? Available at: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/diet-and-utis-foods-to-avoid-with-a-uti. Accessed 14 June 2021.