By Gladys Halima
Whenever you experience a burning sensation when passing urine, often accompanied by a strong-smell, it is a sign of bladder infection or cystitis.
The infection is caused by bacteria, which attacks the urethra and moves to the bladder, causing discomfort.
Although many bladder infections are treated with antibiotics, following certain dietary guidelines may decrease the symptoms during treatment. These include drinking cranberry juice and plenty of water, eating high-fibre foods and healthy fats. Avoiding sugar, soft drinks, coffee and beer.
Berry juice
Cranberries and blueberries help block the binding of infection-causing bacteria to bladder tissues. This aids in flushing out bacteria through the urine.
Regular consumption of unsweetened cranberry juice provides you with vitamins and antioxidants that acidify the urine and help stop bacterial growth.
You can prepare this juice at home by mixing cranberries with blueberries and blending them together.
Water
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps dilute your urine and flush out bacteria.
Antioxidants and fibre
A diet rich in antioxidant foods, including cherries, tomatoes, and squash, is beneficial to persons with urinary tract infections as it inhibits bacterial growth. Examples of high-fibre foods include oats, beans, yams and potatoes. Keep off saturated fats, especially in red meats and dairy products. Instead eat more fish and soy for protein with olive oil or vegetable oils.
Sweeteners to avoid
Artificial sweeteners found in many foods and beverages may aggravate bladder infection. This is because bacteria feed on sugar. Therefore, it is best to avoid sugary things until your symptoms subside.