A kidney infection can be a painful and challenging experience, and while medications are the primary treatment, your diet plays an equally vital role in your recovery.

What you eat and drink can either support or hinder your kidneys as they work to eliminate the infection. Consuming the wrong foods or beverages can worsen your symptoms, slow your healing, or place additional strain on your kidneys.

This guide explores, in detail, the foods and drinks to avoid when recovering from a kidney infection and how to make smarter dietary choices for optimal recovery.

Foods to avoid with a kidney infection

High-sodium foods

Salt, or sodium, is one of the biggest dietary threats to your kidneys, especially when they’re already compromised. Too much sodium forces your body to retain water, raising your blood pressure and increasing the workload on your kidneys. Common culprits include processed foods such as crisps, canned soups, ready meals, and savoury snacks.

Even items that appear healthy, such as some breakfast cereals and salad dressings, can hide high sodium levels. Avoid adding extra salt to your meals and opt for fresh ingredients flavoured with herbs and spices instead.

Protein overload

While protein is essential for maintaining muscle and repairing tissues, consuming too much can be hard on your kidneys. Protein metabolism produces waste products that the kidneys must filter, which can increase their workload during an infection. Foods such as red meats, poultry, fish, and even eggs should be consumed in moderation.

To reduce strain, consider incorporating plant-based proteins like lentils, chickpeas, and tofu into your meals. These options are gentler on your kidneys while still providing the nutrients you need for recovery.

Sugary foods

Sugar contributes to inflammation in the body, which is especially harmful when you’re fighting a kidney infection. Excessive sugar intake can also lead to weight gain and high blood sugar levels, both of which negatively impact kidney function.

Common sources of hidden sugars include sweets, cakes, pastries, and fizzy drinks. Even seemingly innocuous items like ketchup, barbecue sauce, and some fruit yoghurts can pack a surprising amount of sugar.

For a sweet fix, opt for fresh fruits like apples or berries in moderation, as some fruits can be problematic for kidney health if consumed in large amounts.

Drinks to steer clear of

Proper hydration is essential when dealing with a kidney infection. Drinking enough water helps your kidneys flush out bacteria and toxins, promoting faster recovery. However, it’s important to choose your beverages carefully.

Caffeinated beverages

Caffeine acts as a diuretic, increasing the frequency of urination and potentially leading to dehydration. This is particularly unhelpful when dealing with a kidney infection, as staying hydrated is crucial to flushing out bacteria.

Beverages such as coffee, tea, energy drinks, and certain soft drinks should be avoided or limited. Dehydration not only exacerbates your symptoms but can also prolong your recovery time.

Alcohol

Alcohol is particularly harmful when you have a kidney infection. It dehydrates your body, weakens your immune system, and can interact poorly with antibiotics, reducing their effectiveness or causing unwanted side effects.

Avoiding alcohol entirely during your recovery is the safest option. Even small amounts can hinder your kidneys’ ability to filter waste and combat the infection effectively.

Foods that can aggravate symptoms

Spicy and acidic foods

Spicy and acidic foods are known to irritate the urinary tract, potentially worsening the pain and discomfort associated with a kidney infection. Common offenders include chillies, hot sauces, tomatoes, citrus fruits, and vinegar-based products.

While you might crave bold flavours, it’s best to stick to bland, easily digestible meals such as boiled vegetables, plain rice, and mild soups during your recovery. These options are gentle on your system and help minimise irritation.

Foods high in oxalates

Oxalates are naturally occurring compounds found in certain foods, and they can contribute to kidney stone formation, particularly when your kidneys are already under strain. Foods like spinach, beetroot, rhubarb, and certain nuts should be avoided. These foods not only increase the risk of kidney stones but can also complicate your recovery from an existing infection.

Other foods to watch out for

Dairy products

Dairy products, while nutritious, can sometimes pose a challenge for those with kidney issues. They are high in calcium and phosphorus, which can accumulate in your body when your kidneys are not functioning optimally. Consuming large amounts of milk, cheese, or yoghurt may exacerbate kidney stress. Limit your intake and consider alternatives like almond milk or oat milk, which are often lower in phosphorus and gentler on your system.

High-potassium foods

Potassium is an essential nutrient, but when your kidneys are impaired, they may struggle to regulate potassium levels in your blood. Foods like bananas, oranges, potatoes, and avocados are particularly high in potassium and should be consumed sparingly during a kidney infection. Opt for low-potassium alternatives such as apples, berries, cauliflower, and courgettes to maintain balance without overloading your kidneys.

Lifestyle tips to complement your diet

In addition to avoiding certain foods and drinks, adopting healthy lifestyle habits can speed up your recovery. Make sure to:

By combining dietary adjustments with these simple lifestyle changes, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother and faster recovery.

Final notes

Your kidneys are working hard to keep your body healthy – give them the support they need by making thoughtful choices. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice and remember that your recovery is in your hands.

Related read: How Long Does It Take To Recover From A Kidney Infection?