9 natural ways to combat UTIs…forever!

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.

Changes to your urinary system in your 60s

• The number and size of nephrons (filtering units in the kidneys) decreases, meaning your body cannot flush toxins out as well as it used to, leading to frequent urination and dehydration
• The kidneys becomes smaller and less blood flows through them.
• The bladder becomes less flexible, meaning it can hold less urine and it becomes more difficult to squeeze hard enough to get rid of all the urine it contains resulting in more frequent urination.
• The sensation of having to urinate is not as strong and may not be felt until the bladder is completely full, when the need is suddenly very urgent.
• The sphincter (muscular ring that controls the passage of urine out of the body), becomes less flexible and is less able to close tightly and prevent leakage.
• The urethra shortens and its lining becomes thinner.

How can UTIs be avoided?

• Drinking lots of fluid, particularly water, to wash bacteria from the bladder and urinary tract.
• Quickly treat a vaginal infection, such as thrush, by taking medication available over the counter.
• Avoid constipation.
• Do not delay going to the toilet when you need to
• Wipe from front to back after urinating
• Wear only cotton underwear and use natural soaps to wash
• Use only warm water when washing between your legs
• Don’t use perfumed soaps, talcum powder or any type of deodorant between your legs
• Avoid bubble baths and spas

Natural ways to combat UTIs

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:

• Cookies
• Lollies
• Soft drink
• Alcohol
• Coffee
• Tea

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:

• 1/4 cup bi-carb soda
• 1 teaspoon citric acid (leave out if you can’t find at local health food store)
• 3-4 drops of lemon essence
• Stevia to sweeten

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?