One of the ways to prevent bladder infection and UTI is to ensure you’re getting an adequate amount of fluid. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services suggests the majority of liquid should be water, and sugary sodas, alcohol, and coffee should be limited. For many, that can get a little boring.
Thankfully, there are several fruits and vegetables that are high in water—and other healthful compounds like fiber and antioxidants—that can also help limit the likelihood of bladder infections. If you’re looking for more exciting ways to include water into your day, try some of these:
- Celery: Celery is more than 95% water and can fit into your diet in several ways. It can add crunch to potato salad or serve as something to be dipped or lined with nut butter. It’s rich in fiber as well as vitamin A, K, folate, and potassium.
- Tomatoes: Tomatoes are a great source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may promote heart health. They are also a great source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, and roughly 95 percent water.
- Watermelon: This tasty summer treat is over 91 percent water and a great source of several vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. One slice of watermelon (about an inch thick) has about 5 ounces of water.
- Strawberries: Strawberries are one of the top antioxidant-rich fruits, and also happen to be about 91 percent water. They can help ensure you’re removing waste from the bladder to prevent infection, as well as potentially reduce inflammation to reduce the risk of many illnesses.
Other fruits and vegetables high in water include leafy greens, cucumber, zucchini (summer squash), cantaloupe, honeydew, broccoli, apples, and peaches.
Drinking water isn’t the only way to reach your water targets for the day and reduce the chances of certain bladder infections. Include more water-rich fruits and vegetables to help you stay hydrated, healthy, and at a lower risk for bladder-related troubles.