Did you know that urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the most common infections among adults? And especially among women. Although several antibiotics are available to treat UTIs, it is best to go for healthy, dietary measures that can help manage the infection easily and quickly. Here are five healthy eating habits that can keep UTI at bay.
The goodness of yogurt
Probiotics are packed with “good” bacteria that keep the infection from growing in the urinary tract. There are several scientific studies and results that talk about how probiotics are incredibly beneficial for preventing urinary tract infections. Although more accurate and conclusive evidence is missing, it will be helpful if you have the natural sources of probiotics.
Probiotics are available both in natural and fermented forms and in supplements. Yogurt is the best natural source of probiotics as compared to other over the counter alternatives. Always go for the natural source as opposed to medications or supplements that may make you feel lethargic and drowsy. Moreover, you must avoid packaged probiotic drinks as they contain added sugar and other preservatives that might be unhealthy for your overall health.
Natural probiotics such as yogurt can also help you to fight the side effects of antibiotics and assist in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, keeping you away from UTI. Apart from yogurt, you can also add pickles or gherkins, buttermilk, or kimchi to your diet. Going for probiotics is one of the best ways to treat a UTI without antibiotics.
Limit caffeine and alcohol
Many pieces of research suggest that limiting the intake of caffeine and alcohol helps in treating urinary tract infections efficiently. It is common knowledge that consuming wine, beer, or any liquor can irritate your stomach if you have an ulcer or an acid reflux. A similar situation also irritates the bladder in case you already have a urine or bladder infection. Although doctors suggest drinking a lot of fluids to treat UTI quickly, it is crucial to avoid alcohol altogether.
Moreover, cutting down on caffeinated drinks such as tea, coffee, or chocolate is also recommended. However, you can occasionally opt for a soda, which might help in some conditions.
Garlic can do wonders
One of the most recommended foods for treating UTI is garlic. It not only adds flavor to your food and also acts as a great weapon to fight against bacteria. One of the researches in India found out that eating garlic can prove to be effective against bacteria of urinary tract infections that are resistant to multi-drug treatments. As per modern scientific literature too, garlic is a useful food that helps in targeting numerous protozoa, viruses, bacteria, and fungi.
Moreover, garlic has been used as a medicinal plant for centuries. It contains sulfur compounds such as Allicin that are known to have antimicrobial properties. You can add garlic cloves to your soups, curries, or make some tea. All you need to do is, add 2-3 crushed garlic cloves in warm water, steep for about five to ten minutes and drink it warm.
Cranberries
According to a report published on the Harvard Health Publishing, Cochrane Collaboration, an experts’ body, has identified cranberries as a useful dietary measure for preventing urinary tract infection. They also pointed out that numerous studies have found scientific proof showing that the regular consumption of cranberries reduces your chances of getting a urinary tract infection.
Cranberries are loaded with polyphenol compounds that offer a great bunch of antioxidants to the body that in turn helps in keeping the bacterias of UTI at bay. Furthermore, cranberries are also known to prevent E. coli (the most common bacteria of urinary tract infection), from sticking to the urinary tract.
Naturally extracted cranberry juice is also good for health. Although there are several branded packaged cranberry juices out there, you must always go for the unsweetened one for maximum benefits. It is best to visit your health specialist before you add cranberry juice to your daily diet, as cranberries do not go well with some medications.
Drink more water
Water consumption should be increased if you are looking at treating UTI easily. More water consumption means more urine, which in turn helps in flushing out the urinary tract infection’s bacteria from the body. You must drink one glass of water every hour. Drinking unsweetened liquids also helps. Try adding fresh cranberry juice, but plain water is the most recommended one.
About the Author
Emylee is a wellness lifestyle writer. She loves sharing her thoughts and personal experiences related to natural remedies, yoga and fitness through her writing. She currently writes for How To Cure. She can connect with others experiencing health concerns and help them through their recovery journeys through natural remedies.
