You know the feeling... The frequent urge to pee, burning, cloudy urine, and perhaps even pelvic pain? These are all symptoms associated with urinary tract infections, commonly referred to as UTI’s.
Urinary tract infections occur when bacteria makes it way into the urinary tract and multiples, leading to an infection. Although antibiotics are often used to treat UTI’s, there are several reasons why they should not be the first remedy you reach for.
Antibiotics kill not only the bad bacteria, but also the good bacteria which can lead to yeast infections and other health issues. Over time, frequent use of these drugs can cause bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics. While antibiotic use is not ideal, in some more severe cases, antibiotics must be used. However, in mild cases or at the onset of symptoms, you can try one of the remedies below!
Please Note: In some cases, bacteria can make its way into the kidneys, so it is important to seek medical attention if you experience fever or severe symptoms. Always consult with a medical professional before supplementing.
Disclaimer/Disclosure: I am not a medical professional and the information on this website is for informational purposes only. As always, check with your healthcare provider before starting any medical treatment. This blog has not been evaluated by the FDA. Any products or methods mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or ailment. Some of the links in this post are “affiliate links”, which do not cost you anything. Full Disclosure and Disclaimer here.
1. Raw Garlic
Raw garlic has antibacterial properties and studies show it can be an effective treatment when it comes to UTI’s. Simply ingest raw garlic cloves at the first sign of your symptoms. Begin taking 2 cloves per day after a meal. Increase the amount depending on how much you can tolerate. Garlic pills are also also available if the thought of eating the cloves makes you queasy!
2. 100% Pure Cranberry Juice
Studies show cranberry juice can be effective at preventing bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract. Be sure to choose a cranberry juice made only with pure cranberries and zero added sweeteners like this one. You may also take a cranberry extract or cranberry pills, if preferred.
3. D-Mannose
D-Mannose is a sugar that prevents bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract. Unlike other sugars, it remains unmetabolized and has been known to be an effective treatment when it comes to UTI’s, although more studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness. A supplemental form of D-Mannose can be purchased and taken at the onset of symptoms.
Amazon Find! This Cranberry + D-Mannose Supplement seems promising! Although I haven’t needed to use this yet, I will say I am a fan of the brand’s products overall.
4. Vitamin C
Taking a supplemental form of vitamin C may increase the acidity of your urine and helps your immune system work at an optimal level which can help fight bacteria causing UTI’s. This is the one we use.
5. Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has so many beneficial uses and treating a UTI is one of them! Acetic acid, found in apple cider vinegar, is said to help to reduce the growth of bacteria. Simply mix 1-2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar with water and drink the concoction on an empty stomach. If needed, add honey to distract from the taste.
6. Probiotics
Probiotics can “bind to uroepithelial cells and inhibit pathogenic growth” resulting in treatment and prevention of UTI’s. Personally, my family and I regularly take this probiotic and I would suggest taking them when you have a UTI as well.
7. Water
Drinking plenty of water is key in preventing and curing UTI’s!!! You’ll want to flush everything out of your system and keep your body hydrated so it can fight the infection quickly and effectively.
What To Avoid
- Avoid alcohol, coffee, and sugary drinks.
- Avoid sugar as much as possible.
- Avoid processed foods as much as possible.
Stay healthy & happy!
Resources and Additional Reading:
- https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/uti.html
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12101308/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3622145/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC171427/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27424995/
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/uti-home-remedies
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3217283/