They’re painful, irritating and often arrive at the most inopportune times, and unfortunately urinary tract infections (UTI) are all too common among both men and women.
Women in particular are more prone to UTIs, which can become more frequent as we age due to changes “down there”.
While there are prescription and over-the-counter drugs to treat UTIs, there are also a number of natural ways you can prevent getting one in the first place and avoid those painful trips to the toilet.
1. Cranberry 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 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. Around 5-8 glasses of water per day is optimal, with 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 packed with health benefits and are one of the most nutritious vegetables on the planet. 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. Try cutting them into slices and dipping in hummus or grate it and add to sauces.
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. Sprinkle some over banana and natural yoghurt or add to dishes.
8. Kale
It seems like a bit of a health fad at the moment but kale is popular one for a reason: it is what’s considered a superfood and is packed full of carotenoids (kale contains 10 times the beta-carotene of broccoli), proven to combat urinary tract infections.
9. Urinary Alkaliser
Make this Urinary Alkaliser when you need it 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.
10. Ginger tea
Ginger has amazing anti-inflammatory properties and the ability to reduce pain. To target your UTI, simply drink some ginger tea – made by steeping sliced ginger in a cup of hot water and honey. Drink slowly and once a day.
Foods to avoid:
– Cookies
– Lollies
– Soft drink
– Alcohol
– Coffee
– Tea