Lifestyle and Dietary Changes to Reduce UTIs in Men
Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) in men require both medical evaluation and preventive strategies. Simple adjustments in lifestyle and diet can lower the risk of new infections and support overall urinary tract health.
Lifestyle Changes
- Stay Hydrated: Drink at least 1.5–2 liters (about 50 ounces) of fluid daily, mainly water. Regular urination flushes bacteria from the urinary tract.
- Urinate Frequently: Don’t hold urine for long periods. Empty your bladder every 3–4 hours during the day to discourage bacterial growth.
- Maintain Good Hygiene: Bathe regularly and clean the genital area with mild, unscented soap. Proper hygiene can limit bacterial transfer.
- Urinate Before and After Sex: This helps flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urethra during intercourse.
- Opt for Breathable Underwear: Wear loose-fitting, cotton underwear to reduce moisture and discourage bacterial growth.
- Manage Catheter Care: For men using catheters, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to prevent infection.
- Practice Safe Sex: Avoid spermicidal lubricants, which may disrupt healthy bacterial balance and increase UTI risk.
Dietary Changes
- Increase Probiotic Intake: Foods like plain Greek yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and other fermented products can restore healthy bacteria to the urinary tract and gut.
- Eat More Berries: Cranberries and blueberries, especially unsweetened juices or extracts, may prevent bacteria from adhering to urinary tract walls. Some evidence supports the role of D-mannose (a sugar found in cranberries) for prevention.
- Boost Vitamin C: Citrus fruits, bell peppers, and leafy greens provide vitamin C, which creates an environment less hospitable to bacteria.
- Adopt a Plant-Forward Diet: Vegetarian or predominantly plant-based diets may be associated with lower UTI risk, potentially due to less exposure to certain bacteria found in meats and neutral urine pH.
- Increase Dietary Fiber: Bananas, whole grains, and fiber-rich foods promote regular bowel movements, reducing pressure on the bladder and potential UTI risk.
- Limit Intake of Irritants: Reduce caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods, which can irritate the urinary tract and bladder.
- Use Garlic and Green Tea: Both provide natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects that may support urinary health.
Additional Tips
- Practice “double voiding” (urinating, waiting a few minutes, then urinating again) to fully empty the bladder.
- Don’t delay urination when you feel the urge.
- Manage constipation, as it can increase UTI risk.
Consult a healthcare professional if you have frequent UTIs, blood in urine, or fever. Persistent or complicated infections require prompt medical attention to prevent complications.
Implementing these lifestyle and dietary measures can complement medical approaches, making UTIs less frequent and supporting urinary tract wellness in men.