Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are a common health issue that can cause considerable discomfort and a range of other symptoms. Many people wish to know if they can continue to drink coffee while they have a UTI, as this popular drink provides a number of beneficial properties. It is important to ensure one understands the implications of doing so and is aware of the potential risks.
A UTI is caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract and can be initiated by sexually transmitted microorganism, menopause, dehydration, low immune system, overexposure to toxins and other environmental contaminants, or physical constraints of the bladder. The bacteria can proliferate quickly, causing the walls of the bladder to become inflamed and the production of pus or white blood cells. It is important to visit a doctor or health care provider to make sure the infection is treated appropriately to prevent further issues.
Coffee is commonly viewed as a beverage choice for improving energy levels, reducing fatigue and stimulating alertness. This is due to the presence of caffeine that is found in coffee. However, this alkaloid compound is known to increase urinary volume and motility, which could worsen the uncomfortable and unpleasant symptoms of a UTI. Additionally, coffee has diuretic properties, meaning it can cause you to urinate more frequently and in greater volumes, which can also have a negative impact on UTI symptoms.
Therefore, it is highly recommended to avoid coffee if you have a UTI. If one decides to drink coffee, it is additionally important to remain mindful of other substances present in the beverage – such as added sugar or cream – and their potential impact on UTI symptoms as certain additives can exacerbate the pre-existing infection. There are a number of research studies conducted by medical professionals that demonstrate the potential dangers of drinking coffee when afflicted with a UTI. For example, a study published in 2014 showed that coffee or tea results in alterations in the acid levels in the urine, increasing the probability of an infection and bladder irritation.
Therefore, the best advice for anyone with a UTI is to limit or avoid drinking coffee altogether. In addition to this, incorporating extra water intake into your diet or switching to tea or herbal beverages can be beneficial for your health. Alternately, for those who are unable to resist drinking coffee, using a non-caffeinated version of the drink can help to alleviate UTI symptoms and reduce the risk of a potential infection.
Tea and Herbal Beverages
For those looking for alternative beverages to traditional coffee, there are a number of tea and herbal options that may offer additional health benefits. Many teas, such as ginger tea or chamomile tea, are plentifully available in health food stores. Ginger tea is known to exhibit a range of medicinal properties, including its ability to combat both urinary tract infections and bladder health problems. Additionally, proponents of herbal teas claim it can reduce the risk of a UTI and alleviate symptoms.
Herbal tea is made using a combination of herbs, spices, flowers and fruits that can improve overall health – including bladder function. For example, chamomile tea is known to reduce inflammation and irritations in the urinary tract, reducing the risk of infection and decreasing the severity of the symptoms. Similarly, cranberry juice, which is made from the berries of the Vaccinium macrocarpon plant, is well known for its urological and bladder caring abilities, potentially reducing the risk of an infection and treating the existing bacteria.
Other alternatives include ginger tea or raspberry leaf tea. Ginger is renowned for its anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-viral capabilities, and is used to fight off infections and reduce the amount of pain and inflammations within the urinary tract. Raspberry leaf tea has been proven to increase urine output, selling the passage of bacteria from the urethra to the bladder.
Alternative Treatments
Although making lifestyle changes is often beneficial for anyone suffering from a UTI, there are other medical options available to treat urinary tract infections. It is always recommended to consult with a health-care professional before taking any action as they will be able to advise on the best course of action.
Common medications include antibiotics to target the infection and reduce the severity of the symptoms. In certain cases, if bacteria has reached the bladder, antibiotics may be prescribed to clear the infection fully. If a person experiences recurrent UTI’s, then alternative treatments may be prescribed.
In severe cases, alternate treatments may include a procedure called uretheral dilation, which is designed to widen the urinary canal. There are also a number of vitamins, minerals and supplements which are beneficial for bladder health and can be helpful for those suffering from UTIs. These include probiotics, vitamins C, D and E, as well as glucosomine.
It is important to remain mindful of the severity of the UTI and the frequency of specifically recurring UTIs, as this can be an indication of a more complicated health issue, such as kidney stones. If one does suffer from recurrent UTI’s, it is recommended to consult your health-care provider for advice on the best method of treating the infection and preventing any reoccurrences.
Exercise and Lifestyle Changes
In addition to antibiotics and alternate treatments, there are other lifestyle changes one can make to reduce the frequency of UTIs, such as exercise and proper hydration. Regularly exercising can improve the circulation of bodily fluids, improve the digestion process, and reduce the risk of bacterial build up.
Moreover, drinking plenty of fluids is known to be beneficial, as these are responsible for flushing out the majority of bacteria and impurities in the body. It is important to ensure one is consuming sufficient amounts of clean water and other hydrating fluids, such as natural fruit juices or coconut water.
Certain lifestyle changes can also be beneficial for those suffering from UTIs. Wearing loose fitting and comfortable clothing, particularly underwear, and avoiding any methods of birth control that might irritate the bladder can help reduce the risk of recurrence. Additionally, for women, undergoing hygiene practices such as wiping front to back can also be useful in preventing bacteria from entering the urinary tract.
Conclusion
In summary, urinary tract infections can cause considerable discomfort and a range of other symptoms. While many people enjoy coffee, it is not recommended to drink coffee while one has a UTI, as this can exacerbate symptoms, increase the chance of infection, and potentially cause other health issues. Instead, it is recommended to switch to tea or herbal beverages, drink plenty of fluids, and alternately, consult a doctor or healthcare provider for advice on any safety precautions. Making lifestyle changes such as those mentioned can be beneficial in reducing the severity of UTI’s and preventing any potential recurrence.
