Can you drink decaf coffee with a UTI?
Drinking decaf coffee is not recommended when you have a urinary tract infection (UTI). UTIs are caused by bacteria, commonly bacteria known as E. coli, that travel up into the urethra and bladder, causing painful and annoying symptoms. Drinking decaf coffee can increase these symptoms because it can irritate the bladder and increase inflammation.
Coffee contains naturally-occurring caffeine, as well as various other compounds like diterpenes, quinides, and kahweols. Caffeine can act as a diuretic, increasing the amount of urine and aggravating the inflammation of a UTI. Caffeine also increases bladder contractility, making it difficult for the body to flush out bacteria.
Decaf coffee, on the other hand, has had the caffeine removed to reduce the stimulating effects. Many people think that decaf coffee is totally caffeine-free, but most brands of decaf coffee still contain between 2 and 5 mg of caffeine per cup. Therefore, it still has stimulating effects that can worsen a UTI.
Most studies on the effects of caffeine on the urinary system have focused on regular coffee, but there is some indication that decaf coffee can still worsen inflammation and irritation. A 2016 study found that drinking regular or decaffeinated coffee increased the amount of inflammation-promoting compounds in the urine of people with UTIs. Another study from 2017 showed that drinking caffeinated or decaf coffee was associated with worsening of symptoms in people with bladder infections.
It is important to note that studies of the effects of coffee on the urinary tract are ongoing, so there is still more research to be done. However, the available evidence suggests that drinking caffeinated or decaf coffee is not recommended for people with UTIs. The American Urological Association recommends avoiding both caffeinated and decaf coffee when you have any kind of urinary tract symptoms.
It is possible to enjoy a cup of coffee while recovering from a UTI, but you should opt for non-caffeinated options like herbal teas or hot chocolate. If you have chronic UTIs, it may be worth avoiding coffee altogether.
Diet Changes for UTI Symptoms
In addition to avoiding caffeine, certain dietary changes may also help to reduce inflammation and symptoms associated with a UTI. Reducing sugary and processed foods can help to reduce inflammation in the body, as can increasing intake of antioxidant-rich fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices.
Bone broth is also an excellent option for reducing inflammation and providing the body with essential minerals like zinc, magnesium and potassium. These minerals can help to soothe the bladder and reduce the risk of infection. Additionally, adequate water intake is essential for flushing toxins and bacteria out of the body, so it is important to drink several glasses of water a day.
If you are struggling to manage your UTI symptoms, talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian. They can help you create an individualized plan that will ensure you get all of the nutrients you need to recover from your infection.
Probiotics for UTI Prevention
Taking probiotics is another way to help reduce the risk of UTIs and manage the symptoms of existing infections. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria found in certain foods and supplements that can help to populate the gut with healthy bacteria. This helps to promote a healthy balance of bacteria in the body and reduce pathogenic bacteria like E. coli that may be causing a UTI.
Yogurt and fermented foods like sauerkraut and kimchi are excellent sources of probiotics. Additionally, there are many quality probiotic supplements available that contain a high concentration of beneficial bacteria. Eating a balanced diet and taking probiotics may help to reduce the risk of UTIs by strengthening the immune system and promoting healthier gut bacteria.
Vitamin C to Flush Out Bacteria
Vitamin C is also beneficial for managing UTI symptoms and flushing out bacteria. This vitamin helps to boost the immune system and can increase the acidity of the urine, creating an inhospitable environment for bacteria. Vitamin C also has antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce inflammation in the urinary tract and reduce the risk of infection.
You can get your daily vitamin C from foods like oranges, grapefruit, kiwi, bell peppers, broccoli and leafy greens. However, if your diet does not include these foods or you are looking for additional support, you can always take a vitamin C supplement.
Herbal Remedies for UTI Symptoms
Herbal remedies may also be beneficial for managing symptoms associated with UTIs. Cranberry is one of the most widely-studied herbal remedies for urinary tract health, and has been found to be helpful in reducing inflammation and preventing bacterial growth in the bladder. Additionally, other herbs like uva ursi, goldenseal, dandelion and marshmallow root have all been studied as potential remedies for UTIs.
Herbal supplements can be taken in tincture form, capsule or even incorporated into tea blends. It is important to talk to a doctor before taking any herbal remedies as they may interact with medications. Additionally, some herbs may cause side effects in some people, so it is best to consult a healthcare professional before taking any of them.
