The nurse is discussing alternative therapies with a patient who has had repeated urinary tract infections (UTIs) over the past year

Question

The patient asks the nurse if there are any foods that might help her to potentially avoid developing more infections. What response by the nurse is most ap-propriate? a. "Drinking lots of water is about all you can do to avoid getting another urinary tract infection."
b. "There are many rumors out about pre-ventative foods and drinks but none are proven at this time."
c. "Studies show support for including vita-min C in the diet to help avoid urinary tract infections."
d. "Increasing the amount of leafy green vegetables in your daily diet is very help-ful in preventing urinary tract infections."

Answer 1

C
Vitamin C can help acidify the urine and decrease the frequency of cystitis. Drinking increased amounts of water is very helpful, but it isn't the only intervention to avoid a UTI. There is evi-dence of foods and drinks being preventative measures for UTI, such as cranberry juice. Leafy green vegetables are not considered a preventative food for UTIs.