Urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract. Its common symptoms include pelvic pain, cloudy urine, cramps, and a burning sensation while urinating. UTI typically affects more women than men since they have a shorter urethra. Conditions like diabetes, post-menopause, and pregnancy increase the risk of this infection. However, there some foods that trigger UTI too. Limit or avoid these to maintain a healthy bladder.

1. Coffee
Coffee may seem like a necessary dose of liquid in the morning, but it is extremely unhealthy for the bladder, as it contains a large amount of caffeine. Caffeine is diuretic and escalates the urge to urinate more often. According to some studies, individuals who were diagnosed with interstitial cystitis experience chronic bladder inflammation. It is best to replace coffee with herbal tea but do read the label before indulging.

2. Alcohol
Just like coffee, alcohol is also a diuretic that creates a high amount of urine which may irritate the lining in the bladder. Excessive consumption of alcohol daily can also weaken the pelvic muscles and attract serious diseases. Alcohol, like wine and beer, contains an inconspicuous amount of sugar that can aggravate UTI. It is best to limit or avoid the consumption of alcohol when recovering from this infection.

3. Spicy food
Spicy foods typically cause a burning sensation while ingesting, which also affects the bladder. Foods such as jalapenos, extra hot curry, red pepper flakes, and chili sauce may increase the acidic levels in the body if eaten regularly and in a large amount. UTI symptoms may worsen if the foods are too spicy.

4. Artificial sweeteners
Individuals watching their weight typically opt for sugar-free alternatives or artificial sweeteners to replace sugar in foods. However, this food may trigger UTI and aggravate its symptoms. It is advisable to check the label of the packaged food before consumption. Sometimes, sugar may be hidden in the form of saccharin, sucralose, and aspartame.

5. Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits are usually recommended by nutritionists and health professionals. However, in patients with UTI, the acid in citrus fruits can lead to severe complications. It can worsen bladder infection and cause excessive irritation while urinating. Avoid fruits such as lemons, oranges, grapefruits, tomatoes, apples, peaches, grapes, plums, strawberries, and pineapple.

6. Processed foods
Foods like white bread, french fries, hot dogs, and various processed products can lead to constipation. This, in turn, leads to urinary retention, a condition where an individual cannot empty their bladder. The urine left in the bladder can cause excessive growth of bacteria leading to UTI. Constipation is quite common in children, and hence it is important to watch what they are eating.