Diet for UTI

Is yogurt good for a women experiencing UTI? What are the other dietary sources that can help in overcoming this condition?
(December 30, 2010)

Preventing UTI in Women

A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) can be described as an infection that begins in the urinary system, which comprises they bladder, the kidneys the ureters and the urethra. Studies indicate that urinary tract infection is the second most common infection that affects the human body. Although any part of a person’s urinary system can get infected, most of the infections that are seen affect the organs in the lower tract, which are the urethra and the bladder.  A UTI can affect both men and women, but it is a lot more common in women. This infection needs to be checked and controlled at the earliest, because the bacteria that lead to it can travel from the bladder to the other organs and infect them too. In some cases, there could be problems in the bowel movements too, because of UTI, especially in case of infants or children.

Treatment for UTI in women

Most doctors recommend antibiotics, for the treatment of urinary tract infections. The duration for which the drugs are prescribed will depend completely on the severity of the condition, as well as the patient’s overall health. The symptoms of UTI usually clear up within two weeks or so. However, at times, the infection spreads too far, which will require hospitalization.

Natural cures for UTI in women

Although there are several ways of treating UTI in women, with the help of medication, there are several people who prefer opting for natural remedies, along with a diet for UTI. This is because home remedies and diets are believed to be very effective in getting rid of the bacteria, but at the same time, they have fewer side effects, as compared to antibiotics. Given below are a few natural remedies that are a part of a diet for UTI:

Yogurt and UTI

Not a lot of people are aware of the benefits of yogurt for bladder infection. In fact, several people actually need to ask their doctors “does yogurt help UTI in any way?”. The answer to that is “Yes”, as studies indicate that UTI and yogurt are indeed related. In fact, a woman can not only treat UTI with yogurt, but this ingredient is also very useful in preventing UTI in women. However, it is important to use yogurt for urinary tract infection treatment or prevention in the right manner. Eating flavored yogurt is not very helpful, as it contains sugar. Instead, while eating yogurt for UTI, it is necessary for people to ensure that it contains live cultures, which can prevent the bacteria in the bladder from getting out of hand.

Apple cider vinegar and UTI

This is probably one of the most common alternatives that people use, in lieu of prescription medication. This is because apple cider vinegar contains high levels of certain, enzymes, which can help control and prevent the infection causing bacteria from multiplying and spreading to other areas. However, it is important to consume the right amounts of apple cider vinegar throughout the day. One tablespoon of apple cider vinegar should be added, to one glass of water (8 ounces). It is best to drink this mixture about two to three times in a day. There are some people who cannot stomach this concoction and add honey, to make it a bit more palatable. However, the amount of honey added should not exceed half a teaspoon.

Berries and UTI

Certain varieties of berries, especially blueberries contain bacteria inhibiting properties. This can help prevent and treat urinary tract infections to a great extent. It is best to sprinkle a handful of blueberries over a bowl of cereal. For maximum effectiveness, fresh blueberries can be added to some plain yogurt too. Cranberry juice has been known to have a similar effect on UTI. The recommended amount of unsweetened cranberry juice that should be consumed each day is 17 ounces. Since it is difficult to consume the entire amount in one go, it is absolutely fine for a person to drink this amount throughout the day. Both blueberries as well as cranberries are known to have diuretic and antibacterial properties which deter bacteria, especially E coli, from sticking to the walls of the bladder.

Baking soda and UTI

While this remedy may not be very effective in preventing UTI, it can help speed up the recovery process, as it can help neutralize the acidity in the urine. The right way of using this home remedy is by adding one teaspoon of baking soda into an 8-ounce glass of water and drinking it in one go. This remedy should be consumed once in the day.

Pineapples and UTI

Pineapples are very high in an enzyme known as Bromelain. When combined with medication, this enzyme can increase the body’s ability to fight off the bacteria causing infection. Therefore, it is beneficial to eat one cup of fresh pineapple, while the treatment of urinary tract infection is on. Canned pineapples should be strictly avoided, as they can aggravate the condition.

In addition to following the home remedies that are mentioned above, women should also make sure that they consume additional water for flushing out the toxins from their urinary systems. Hence, it is advisable to consume more than 8 to 10 glasses of water in a day, in addition to any other liquids.

Following strict hygienic measures can also go a long way in treating urinary infections. Women should never control the urge to urinate for a long period of time. It is absolutely essential to empty the bladder completely, while urinating. After passing urine, women should use some toilet paper to wipe themselves, from the front to the back and not the other way around. Toilet paper or sanity pads that are scented or colored should be avoided in general.

While most of the natural remedies mentioned above are relatively safe if used correctly, it is important to consult a doctor, before treating a urinary tract infection with yogurt, apple cider vinegar, berries, baking soda, pineapple or any other home remedy. Moreover, if the UTI does not get better after two weeks, it may be necessary to go in for medical treatment options.