Introduction
If you have ever had a UTI you know it’s a miserable experience. Unfortunately, there has been an uptick in antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria making UTIs harder to treat. This article looks at a few home remedies for UTI that have been used historically and are being studied now as preventative measures or adjuncts to antibiotics.
Of course, always talk with your medical provider and follow their advice. This article is informational and does not replace medical advice.
What causes UTI:
- Bacteria from the bowel is one of the main causes of UTI.
- Dysfunction in urinary tract anatomy, hormonal changes, suppressed immunity, and spermicides can also cause UTI.
Symptoms of a UTI:
- Uncomfortable or painful urination
- Cloudy, bloody, or strong-smelling urine
- Pelvic pain and pressure in women
- Occasional fever, nausea, vomiting, chills or fatigue
Simple Behavioral Changes that May Help Decrease UTI:
- Drink Plenty of Water – Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day to help flush out bacteria and reduce your risk of getting a urinary tract infection.
- Increase Vitamin C Intake – Increasing the amount of vitamin C in your diet can increase acidic urine, which helps kill off bacteria.
- Urinate Frequently – When you feel the urge to go, don’t hold it in as this can cause bacteria to build up and lead to an infection.
- Wear Loose-Fitting Clothes – Wearing tight-fitting clothes such as denim or spandex may increase your risk of getting a UTI, so make sure to wear loose-fitting clothes.
- Practice Good Hygiene – Proper hygiene is essential for preventing infections, so make sure to always clean yourself after going to the bathroom and washing your hands regularly.
- Avoid Scented Products – Fragrance products such as body wash and scented toilet paper can irritate your urinary tract, so try to avoid using them.
- Take a Warm Bath – Taking a warm bath with Epsom salts or baking soda can help reduce inflammation and discomfort from a UTI.
- Avoid Unnecessary Antibiotics – Unless prescribed by your doctor, you should avoid taking antibiotics as this could lead to antibiotic resistance and other potential health risks.
- Have Regular Checkups – If you have a history of recurrent UTIs, it’s important to visit your doctor regularly for checkups to ensure that any underlying conditions are being treated properly.
- Change Your Birth Control – Some types of birth control, such as diaphragms and spermicides, can increase your risk of getting a UTI so speak to your doctor about changing it if you experience recurrent UTIs.
- Avoid Sugary Drinks – Sugary drinks can feed bad bacteria in your urinary tract and lead to UTIs, so try to limit your intake of them.
- Cut Down on Alcohol – Too much alcohol consumption disrupts urinary flow and can lead to UTIs, so try to limit your intake of alcoholic beverages.
- Wear Cotton Underwear – Cotton underwear is more breathable than other materials which helps reduce the risk of bacteria build up in the urinary tract.
- Increase Your Intake Of Probiotics – Eating foods that are high in probiotics, such as yogurt and certain types of cheeses, can help boost your immune system and reduce your chances of getting a UTI.
Home Remedies for UTI
The best-known home remedy for UTI is cranberry juice. both my mother and grandmother used to advise this juice for UTI. Turns out there was something to that! Cranberries contain compounds that can help prevent bacteria from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract, which may reduce your chances of getting a UTI. Studies have found that drinking cranberry juice or taking cranberry supplements may be beneficial for those looking to reduce their risk of getting a UTI. Additionally, cranberry juice is generally safe and well-tolerated, so it may be a great option for those looking to prevent UTIs. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17905535/
D-Mannose – Taking a daily supplement of D-mannose may help reduce your risk for UTIs by preventing the adhesion of bacteria to the walls of the urinary tract. D-mannose is a natural sugar found in some fruits, and studies have found that taking it can significantly reduce the recurrence of UTIs. Additionally, D-mannose is generally safe and well tolerated, so it can be a great option for those looking to prevent UTIs. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32972899/
Arctostaphylos uva ursi or bearberry leaf: Supplement With Bearberry Leaf – Arctostaphylos uva ursi, or bearberry leaf, is a herb that has been used traditionally to treat UTIs. Studies have found that taking it can help reduce the symptoms of a UTI and help prevent recurrence. It is generally safe and well tolerated, so it may be worth trying if you are looking to prevent UTIs. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29970072/
Increase Garlic Intake – Research has found that garlic can help prevent UTIs due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Eating more garlic or taking garlic supplements may be beneficial for those looking to reduce their risk of getting a UTI. Additionally, garlic is generally safe and well-tolerated, so it can be a great option for those looking to prevent UTIs. Just be aware garlic has blood-thinning elements. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35246671/
Green tea – Green tea contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and fight off infection, which may improve urinary tract health. Research has found that drinking green tea or taking green tea supplements may be beneficial for those looking to prevent UTIs. Additionally, green tea is generally safe and well-tolerated, so it can be a great option for those looking to protect against UTIs. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31592118/
Other recommendations I have heard of but could find no scientific studies about were Chamomile and Parsley Tea.
Conclusion
UTIs are very common and can be very uncomfortable. However, with the right prevention strategies, it’s possible to reduce your risk of getting a UTI. Eating a balanced diet, drinking lots of water, and supplementing with herbs such as bearberry leaf, garlic, and green tea may help reduce your risk of developing a UTI. Additionally, practicing proper hygiene and avoiding certain medications can also help reduce your risk of developing a UTI. Remember that prevention is the best way to protect against UTIs, so it’s important to do everything you can to reduce your risk.
It’s also important to consult with a doctor if you experience any symptoms associated with a UTI, as they may be able to provide the most effective treatment for you. Taking action as soon as possible is important to prevent further complications.
By taking the right preventive steps, it’s possible to protect yourself against UTIs and enjoy a healthier urinary system. If you suspect you may have a UTI, be sure to speak with a medical professional for proper diagnosis and treatment options.
Note: This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. As always, consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or medications including herbs.
For other home remedies click here.