Having a urinary tract infection, or UTI, is already miserable enough. You surely don’t want to take steps to exacerbate the infection, but unfortunately many people don’t know that the actions they are taking might make their UTI worse. Here are some things that you do not want to do if you are dealing with a urinary tract infection:
Do Not Drink Alcohol
Drinking alcohol while you have a UTI is a big no. Not only does it dehydrate you, but it also irritates the urinary tract. There’s a reason you feel the urge to go to the bathroom more frequently when you drink. It’s because the alcohol is causing you irritation in your urinary tract. When you have a UTI you’re already irritated, so don’t make it worse.
Do Not Eat Spicy Food
Eating spicy food can irritate your urinary tract just like it irritates your digestive tract. It’s best to stay away from any foods that are heavy in spice and seasoning when you have a UTI. You should opt for foods that are plain and make sure you’re drinking plenty of water with each meal.
Do Not Wait to Use the Bathroom
When you’ve got to go you’ve got to go. Holding back the need to urinate isn’t good for your body anytime, but it’s especially bad when you have a urinary tract infection. When you hold in your urine, you’re also holding in all the bacteria that are in your urinary tract. Letting it all go is actually helping you to flush out the infection, so go to the bathroom and flush that bacteria down the drain.
Do Not Consume Sugar
Most bacteria and infections feed off of sugar, so consuming sugar while suffering from a UTI will only make matters worse. Check labels to make sure that sugar isn’t hiding in unsuspecting places. It’s amazing how much sugar ends up in our food and drinks these days.
Remember that the best thing you can do while you have a UTI is continuing to take your doctor prescribed medication. Drink plenty of water and stay calm!
