We all know that as we age, so too does our body, but perhaps one of the most overlooked (though not one of the least noticeable) areas in our body is our urinary system.
You may have noticed as you get older, urinary disorders increase and you may experience more problems, particularly you’re a woman.
1. Cranberry and blueberry juice
It isn’t the acidity in cranberries that makes them so effective in treating UTIs, it’s the antioxidant compound (also found in blueberry juice) called epicatechin that works directly on bacteria in your urinary tract.
The next time you have a urinary tract infection, drink three 250mL glasses of pure unsweetened cranberry or blueberry juice.
2. Water
It sounds obvious but you really need to keep your fluid levels up if you want to get rid and stay rid of UTIs forever. The more water you drink, the less likely it is that bacteria will live in your bladder or urinary tract and cause more problems. 5-8 glasses of water per day is optimal, and more in hotter climates.
3. Plain yoghurt
Most people know that yoghurt has live cultures that are great for our health, but did you know plain yoghurt is fantastic for beating a UTI? Studies have found it may help you avoid a yeast infection, which antibiotics sometimes trigger. A cup of yoghurt a day is satisfactory.
4. Blueberries
We’ve talked about cranberries, but blueberries also aid in preventing recurring UTIs. They also have the added bonus of providing an overall health boost. A handful every couple of days can give you a boost and banish those painful UTI symptoms.
5. Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are one of the oldest vegetables known to man and also one of the most nutritious. They are an excellent addition to your diet if you suffer from recurrent UTIs as they are one of the best sources of beta-carotene, a nutrient that has been shown to provide protection against UTIs. The more intense the colour, the more beta-carotene.
6. Carrots
Speaking of bright veges, carrots are a literal goldmine of nutrients and along with giving you a health boost, the beta-carotene can help to get rid of UTIs, for good.
7. Cinnamon
This spice not only tastes wonderful but it has strong antibacterial and antifungal properties. Cinnamon has been shown to suppress the bacteria that cause most urinary tract infections in women.
8. Kale
It seems like a bit of a health fad at the moment but it is one for a reason. Kale is what’s considered a superfood and is packed full of carotenoids (kale contains ten times the beta-carotene of broccoli), proven to combat urinary tract infections.
Foods to avoid:
9. Urinary Alkaliser
Make this Urinary Alkaliser and keep it in your medicine cabinet for when you need it. It is said to reduce symptoms and provide relief:
In a small bowl, stir the formula together and store in a lidded glass jar. This mixture will fizz when you add it to water. Use 1/2 teaspoon in 150ml of water every couple of hours until you start to feel relief.
Tell us, how do you beat UTIs? What other tips do you have?