Generally, patients diagnosed with urinary tract infections (UTIs) must adhere to special dietary requirements. But to our good fortune, dragon fruit is loaded with beneficial nutrients for the body and even has the potential to exhibit some healing effects.
An infection of the kidneys is a subtype of urinary tract infection (UTI). An infection can start in the duct that takes urine out of the body and the bladder. There is a possibility that the infection will spread to both kidneys.
Is dragon fruit bad for kidneys? To enhance your health in general, you should start by focusing on changing your diet first. This is because not only the foods you eat but also the drinks you consume have a substantial impact on the health of your bladder and the incidence of UTIs.
Your diet, including your preference for red dragon fruit for example, can influence numerous aspects of your body, including your weight, your hair’s growth, and your bladder’s health. Therefore, it should be no surprise that your foods can affect UTI symptoms.
Dragon fruit is one of the superfoods that people frequently turn to because of its natural antioxidants and phytochemicals. Dragon fruit is pervasive in Southeast Asia, and is readily available in markets, too.
Dragon Fruit Facts
The pitaya, also known as the dragon fruit, may seem alien at first glance, but its origins are firmly rooted in the Earth. This exotic treat is the epitome of summertime deliciousness, and it also happens to be a fantastic subject for a photo shoot thanks to its eye-catching hues and unusual form.
People who want to buy dragon fruit are typically wary at first because it looks nothing like the apple. More than anything, it shares the same ‘freaky’ appearance as pineapples, but with a most colorful twist.
Who would’ve known that this freaky fruit would be good for the digestive tract? As a tropical fruit, it’s widely available in Southeast Asia and you can order it online if you live in Canada or the United States. As with any other fruit, some researchers are still trying to discover more about its many potential health benefits. This amazing tropical fruit is also popular in fine cuisine because of its neutral taste and color.
Dragon fruit nutrition has been the subject of debate for many years, and the potential health benefits have yet to be fully uncovered. In the meantime, check out these unique facts about the pitaya!
- This tropical fruit’s sweetness is directly related to its flesh color. The white variety of dragon fruit is much less intense in flavor than its darker counterpart.
- Pitaya and “strawberry pear” are other names for dragon fruit.
- The cactus plant from which dragon fruit is harvested can reach a height of 15–20 feet and live for up to 20 years.
- When cooked, the fruit’s flower buds are a delectable treat.
- Southern Mexico and other parts of Central and South America are the original homes of the dragon fruit. Also, the Asian continent is home to numerous orchards of this fruit, with Vietnam being among the most prolific.
- Dragon fruit has natural pigments that can be used as dye or added to cosmetics.
- Summer is the best time to enjoy the night-blooming fruit, specifically the months of August and September.
- A lot like Kiwi seeds, dragon fruit seeds can be eaten.
- As a result, Asia is home to the majority of the world’s dragon fruit consumers.
- Although most dragon fruit is grown in other countries, farms in the United States (particularly in Hawaii, California, and Florida) have started growing the fruit to meet rising domestic demand.
- While it may look like a cross between a kiwi and a pear, the taste of dragon fruit is reportedly nothing like what its appearance would lead you to expect.
- Protein, fiber, iron, and antioxidants can all be found in abundance in dragon fruit.
- To produce fruit, some plants must be cross-pollinated while others can do so on their own.
- Because of its versatility, this plant can withstand dry conditions.
Contributing to the Balance in the Body
A balanced pH is often high, enabling the chemical known as siderocalin to successfully perform its “bad bacteria blocking” function. This blocking process begins all the back in the digestive system and can also be helped by polyphenols, an antioxidant type.
Most studies have found that urine pH levels are significant in determining how welcoming the urinary tract is to the bacteria that triggers UTI. Because our food directly impacts the pH of our urine, we can adjust this balance to our advantage to make UTI-fighting substances already present in our bodies more effective.
Even though eating foods rich in antioxidants is beneficial and can help ease the symptoms of a UTI, you should get in touch with a urologist as soon as possible if your symptoms continue for more than a week or two. If a UTI is not treated, the infection may progress to the kidneys by becoming chronic, making it even more challenging to treat.
What Is UTI?
The urethra is a common entry point for bacteria that can trigger UTIs. These germs typically come from the skin or the rectum and enter the urinary tract through the urethra. The infections can manifest in some locations along the urinary tract; however, a bladder infection is the most typical.
UTI is more likely to occur in women than in men. The symptoms can be excruciating and irritating when an infection is confined to the bladder. However, if a UTI progresses to the kidneys, it can cause significant complications for the patient’s health.
Antibiotics are the typical treatment for urinary tract infections administered by medical professionals. However, you can also take preventative measures to minimize your risk of developing UTI in the first place.
Lower urinary infections seldom result in problems if they are diagnosed and treated as soon as possible and correctly. However, UTIs can lead to significant health complications if treatment is not sought.
Complications that can arise from mild to chronic UTIs include the following:
- Women, in particular, are more likely to get recurrent infections. Repeated infections are defined as having two or more UTIs within six months or having three or more UTIs within a year.
- Infection of the kidneys brought on by an untreated urinary tract infection can cause permanent damage to the kidneys.
- When a UTI arises during pregnancy, the baby may be born prematurely or with a low birth weight.
- Men can develop urethral stricture since the urethra has been inflamed and/or infected for too long.
- Sepsis is a condition that can be life-threatening when it develops due to an infection. This is a concern, particularly if the infection moves up the urinary tract and into the kidneys.
Antibiotics are the most popular remedy for urinary tract infections and should be pursued if your doctor believes you require them. However, even though you may be feeling better, you should continue taking all the medication your doctor prescribed.
Consuming a lot of water might assist in the removal of bacteria from your body. Your pain could be treated with medicine that your doctor prescribes for you. A heating pad could be of use to you in this situation.
What Causes Urinary Tract Infection?
In most cases, a UTI is brought on by bacteria that go through the urinary tract via the urethra and increase throughout the bladder. The urinary system’s primary function is to prevent bacteria from entering the body.
However, the defenses do not always work. When this occurs, bacteria have a chance to take hold in the urinary tract, where they can eventually develop into a full-blown infection.
After using the restroom, one of the most relentless pieces of advice given to women by medical professionals is to wipe from front to back. This is because the urethra, the tube that transmits urine from the bladder to your body’s exterior, is located close to the anus.
Bacteria from the large intestine can go through the anus and into the urethra of a person. They can then move up to your bladder; if the infection is not treated, they can infect your kidneys.
If the infection from your urinary tract is not treated, it can infect your ureters. The urethras of women are significantly shorter than those of men. Because of this, it is simpler for bacteria to invade their bladders. Engaging in sexual activity can also cause bacteria to enter your urinary tract.
The genes of certain women make them more predisposed to developing UTIs. In addition, the configuration of their urinary systems increases the risk of infection for those around them.
Women who have diabetes may be at a greater risk since their diabetes-related weaker immune systems make it more difficult for them to ward off infections. In addition, changes in hormone levels, multiple sclerosis, and anything that impedes urine flow, such as kidney stones, a stroke, or a spinal cord injury, are all diseases that can increase a person’s chance of developing bladder cancer.
Visit your primary care physician if you have any reason to suspect that you may have an infection of the urinary system. A urine sample will be brought to check for microorganisms that might cause UTIs.
If you have a history of UTI and your doctor feels that there may be a problem in your urinary system, they may perform a CT scan, an ultrasound, or an MRI scan to obtain a better look. When looking down your urethra and into your bladder, they may use a cystoscope, a long, flexible tube.
How To Prevent UTI?
Urinary discomfort and murky urine are two more typical signs. The need to urinate frequently is a common symptom of a urinary tract infection. Despite their prevalence, UTIs can be avoided to some degree. Make these adjustments to farewell burning, frequent urination, and other bothersome symptoms.
Soak Up A Lot Of Fluids
Remember to drink water throughout the day. This will increase the frequency with which you urinate, helping to remove bacteria from your urinary system. There is nothing better than water. The recommended daily intake is 6-8 servings. You can also enhance your fluid intake by drinking decaffeinated herbal tea, sparkling water, milk, or smoothies prepared from fruit and veggies if you find it challenging to sip that much water.
Don’t Force Anything
Urine retention might promote bacterial growth and should be avoided. Please don’t hold it in for more than three or four hours, and make sure each trip to the bathroom is thorough. Because of the increased risk of developing a UTI during pregnancy, this is of utmost importance. Further increasing the danger is holding your urine in.
Urinate Both Before And After Sexual Activity
The risk of a UTI is higher during sexual activity, especially for women. Because sex is a perfect entry point for bacteria to enter the urethra, eliminate any potential health complications by urinating before and after sexual activity. The goal is to eliminate any potential UTI-causing germs. In addition, it’s recommended that you give your genitalia a mild wash before engaging in sexual activity. It can assist in maintaining hygiene and lessen the risk of bacteria entering the urethra.
Incorporate Probiotics Into Your Diet
Good gut bacteria can be increased by taking probiotics, which are live microorganisms. Moreover, they may encourage the development of beneficial bacteria in the urinary system. This measure may reduce your risk of acquiring a urinary tract infection.
Methods Of Preventing Unwanted Pregnancies Should Be Investigated
Some forms of contraception may encourage the spread of disease-causing germs. Non-lubricated diaphragms, condoms, and spermicides fall into this category. It’s important to discuss the possibility of UTIs with your doctor if you suspect your birth control is to blame. They will be able to steer you through the alternatives and assist you in deciding which one best meets your needs.
Obtain Some Antibiotics, Please
Your doctor may prescribe a tiny daily dose of oral antibiotics if you suffer from recurrent or nonresponsive UTIs. Reducing the number of germs in the urinary tract this aids in avoiding UTIs. Unfortunately, bacteria cause most UTIs, so you’ll need to take antibiotics immediately after sex or as soon as you feel symptoms. But there is a downside: overuse of antibiotics might cause bacteria to become immune to treatment.
Which Fruit Is Good For Urinary Tract Infection?
There is a wide range of health benefits to be had from the many different types of fruit. If you are familiar with the positive effects of different types of fruit, you will be much more prepared to make UTI-friendly meals. Undoubtedly, dragon fruit could be one of the best to aid urinary tract infections.
Dragon Fruit Yogurt
Regular use of yogurt and other cultured dairy products has been associated with a reduction in the prospect of increasing urinary tract infection by as much as 80%. Check the label for the words “contains live and active cultures” before buying any yogurt. Active cultures in yogurt’s beneficial bacteria help ward off illness and strengthen the immune system. You may increase the health advantages of yogurt by adding dragon fruit.
Dragon Fruit-Infused Water
One of the most beautiful ideas you can do for your digestive and urinary systems is to drink lots of water. To avoid infections and keep the digestive system working smoothly, drinking enough water to cleanse bacteria from the urinary tract is essential. Try adding some dragon fruit flavor to your water for a refreshing twist.
Dragon fruit and oatmeal
Constipation and other forms of irregular bowel movement have been linked to increased tension in the urinary tract, which can lead to a blockage of urine flow and the subsequent growth of bacteria. Healthy metabolism and regular bowel movements are supported by a diet high in fiber and sufficient water intake. Lack of sufficient dietary water will render fiber ineffective. Apples, bananas, whole-grain oats, and dragon fruit are all great choices because they’re high in fiber. Add some dragon fruit slices to your oatmeal for a fiber-rich breakfast.
Fruits For UTI: Fruits Good for Your Kidney Health
Your kidney health will improve in direct proportion to the amount of vitamin C in your diet. For example, citrus and fibrous fruits contain significant amounts of vitamin C. Daily consumption may help reduce the likelihood of developing issues that affect your kidney health.
- Pineapples are a good source of bromelain, a proteolytic juice that can break down kidney stones. In addition, vitamin C, which is abundant in this food, is known to strengthen the immune system.
- The low levels of vitamins C and K attributed to kidney disease can be remedied by eating grapes. Fiber-rich and containing trace amounts of minerals, including manganese, copper, and magnesium, it is a healthy addition to any diet.
- Apples have been linked to benefits, including reduced cholesterol and sugar levels and relief from constipation. In addition, they boost kidney health thanks to their anti-inflammatory qualities and high fiber content.
- Ellagic acid, one of the phytonutrients in raspberries, can help the body neutralize free radicals. In addition, flavonoids are present, which are beneficial for enhancing kidney function and inhibiting cancer cell proliferation.
- The anthocyanidins in blueberries are powerful antioxidants that also help protect the kidneys and prevent inflammation. Vitamin C and manganese, both of which are beneficial to bones and skin and slow the aging process, may also be found in plenty of this food.
Foods To Avoid With UTI
Painful and annoying as a bladder infection is, if the bacterial infection progresses to the kidneys, it becomes a life-threatening emergency. Because of this, it’s crucial to learn about your health and get treatment for bladder infections as soon as possible.
If you have UTI, you must make specific dietary changes, including eliminating some foods and beverages. Stumped for ideas? Take heed of this general rule of thumb:
Limit Your Soda Intake
Individuals who have long-term bladder inflammation may find that sodas, in general, irritate the bladder, and those who have a bladder infection may find that sodas exacerbate their symptoms. Sodas with citrus flavors or caffeine are to blame for exacerbating urinary tract infection symptoms. So if you’re fighting off a bladder infection, water and cranberry juice are the best beverages to sip on.
Put Down The Coffee For A While
Your morning jolt of caffeine may help you get going, but it may also bring about UTI symptoms. When you already have a bladder infection, caffeine can make things a lot worse. Researchers observed that those with interstitial cystitis who drank coffee had more severe symptoms. So before you reach for that cup of coffee in the morning, give a cup of decaffeinated herbal tea a try.
Alcohol’s Adverse Effects Will Outweigh Any Positive Ones
You may already be aware that alcoholic beverages, such as beer, wine, and liquor, can irritate the stomach if you have acid reflux or an ulcer. Still, you may not be aware that they can irritate the bladder, especially if you suffer from a bladder infection. When you have a urinary tract infection, drinking lots of water is crucial, but alcohol should be avoided. To speed up eliminating bacteria and healing from a urinary tract infection, you should lay off the cocktails for a bit.
Your Bladder May Experience Irritation From Spicy Foods
If you have a UTI, you should probably avoid eating anything spicy, whether you usually enjoy red pepper flakes on your pizza, jalapenos on your nachos, or extra-hot beef rendang. Spicy foods easily irritate the bladder, so it’s best to tone down the heat and go for milder fare when treating a UTI.
