Preventing Bladder Infections
The normal acid condition of the body's urine is necessary to prevent the growth of bacteria. When the urine has less acid (more alkaline), there is a greater likelihood of bacteria growing at a rapid rate and as a result a bladder infection can occur more easily. So, it is beneficial to keep your urine naturally acidic. You can do this easily by watching what you eat and drink. Of course drinking plenty of water is also helpful in the maintenance of good health - about 6 to 8 glasses of fluid per day.
Food guide to acidify urine:
| Foods | Avoid | Eat |
| Vegetables | Potatoes, lima beans, soybeans, beet greens, parsnips, spinach, dried vegetables | Three servings a day of any vegetables except those not allowed. Corn, white beans and lentils are good |
| Salads | Any fruit or vegetable salad made of foods allowed, served with oil and vinegar dressing | |
| Meats, Poultry, Fish, Eggs | At least two large servings of any kind, especially chicken, duck, lean beef. Eggs | |
| Carbohydrates | White or brown rice, noodles, macaroni, spaghetti | |
| Nuts | Almonds, chestnuts | |
| Cereals | One or more servings, dry or cooked, preferably whole grains or enriched | |
| Breads | Four or more slices preferably whole grain or enriched. Crackers are OK if salt is not a problem | |
| Dairy | Excessive amounts of milk products including malts and milk shakes | Not more than one pint of milk and three ounces of cream or cheese, especially cottage cheese, Cream cheese, Gruyere, Gorgonzola, Cheddar or Swiss |
| Fruits | Cantaloupe, raisins, dates, figs, dried fruits (except prunes), citrus fruits | Two small servings of any fruit except those not allowed. Prunes, plums and cranberries can be eaten freely |
| Juices | Citrus fruit juices such as orange, lemon, lime, and tomato juice | Prune, plum, cranberry |
| Beverages | Flavored sodas, fruit flavored drinks | |
| Deserts | Cake (without fruit), plum tarts, rice custard, bread pudding, cookies, tapioca pudding, custard pies | |
| Others | White sugar, olives, molasses, and coconut | Barley |
With any food guide, you will select the foods which appeal most to you and watch your calories. Regular exercise, rest, and good nutrition are beneficial. Take the time to plan for good nutrition, you deserve it.
Watching your intake of caffeine drinks, such as coffee, tea, and some canned beverages is beneficial. Too many carbonated drinks should be limited. For example, not more than 3 cups of coffee or tea a day and not more than 2 carbonated drinks a day.