Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are very common, but did you know your diet could be contributing to them? While poor hygiene, dehydration, and other health issues are often blamed for frequent UTIs, the foods you eat on a daily basis may also play a surprising role. An unhealthy diet high in processed foods, sugar, and lacking in essential nutrients can weaken your immune system and create an environment where harmful bacteria can thrive.
To understand how unhealthy foods can lead to UTIs, the OnlyMyHealth team spoke to Dr Ritambhara Bhalla, Associate Director, Gynaecology, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Chandigarh. “Urinary tract infections occur when bacteria, usually E. coli, enter the urinary tract through the urethra and grow in the bladder, causing symptoms like a strong urge to urinate, burning sensation while urinating, cloudy or strong smelling urine, and pelvic pain,” says Dr Bhalla. Normally, the body’s immune system is able to fight off these infections, but certain conditions and behaviours can increase your risk.
The role of diet in urinary tract infection risk
“Diet is now being recognized as a contributing factor in preventing or developing UTIs,” explains Dr. Bhalla. “An unhealthy diet that’s high in sugar and processed foods and lacking in essential nutrients can weaken the body’s immune system, making it less effective at fighting infections, including UTIs.”
Consuming too much sugar creates an ideal environment for harmful bacteria to thrive. Dr. Bhalla explains: “As your body processes sugar, some of it is excreted in your urine, providing food for bacteria and allowing them to multiply rapidly. This increases your chances of developing a UTI.”
Read more: Urinary Tract Infections Are More Prevalent in Summer: Urologist Shares Why and How to Minimize the Risk
Additionally, a diet low in fiber can lead to constipation, another risk factor for UTIs. “When you’re constipated, stool puts pressure on your bladder, making it harder to completely empty it when you urinate,” adds Dr. Bala. “This can cause bacteria to remain in the urinary tract, increasing your risk of infection.”
Dehydration, often caused by not drinking enough water, also contributes to UTIs. Drinking enough water flushes bacteria from the urinary tract, reducing the risk of infection. “Many young people today are drinking sugary drinks like soda and energy drinks instead of plain water, unknowingly increasing their risk of UTIs,” says Dr. Bhalla.
Why Urinary Tract Infections Are On the Rise in Young People
Modern diets, especially those of younger generations, are often dominated by fast foods, sugary snacks and drinks that are high in artificial ingredients and low in nutrition. This unhealthy change, combined with factors such as stress, lack of sleep and dehydration, is a major contributor to the rise in UTIs.
“A combination of poor diet and lifestyle habits not only increases the likelihood of developing a UTI, but also weakens the immune system overall,” says Dr. Bala. “Younger people who are otherwise healthy are more susceptible to infections, including UTIs, because their bodies are not equipped to fight off bacteria as effectively.”
Also read: Can Men Get Urinary Tract Infections From Women? What Doctors Say
Preventing Urinary Tract Infections with Diet and Lifestyle Changes
Fortunately, diet and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk of UTIs. “A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein strengthens your immune system and promotes overall health,” suggests Dr. Barra. Foods rich in vitamin C, such as oranges and strawberries, make your urine more acidic, creating an unfavorable environment for bacterial growth.”
Increasing your fluid intake and cutting down on sugary drinks are important steps to keeping your urinary tract bacteria-free. Consuming probiotics, such as those found in yogurt, may help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in your body and reduce your risk of urinary tract infections.
in conclusion
UTIs are influenced by many factors, but unhealthy diet is the main cause of increased incidence among young people. Adopting healthier eating habits and making lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk of UTIs and improve your overall health.
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