If you've ever experienced one, you'll know just how unpleasant a UTI can be. Urinary Tract Infections - also known as cystitis - are incredibly common with at least 1 in 5 women getting one in their lifetime. If it isn't too severe, you may well be able to treat it yourself. Today we're taking a look at some natural ways to treat Urinary Tract Infections at home, plus some natural remedies and tips to get you back on track!
What is a UTI?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that occurs when bacteria invade the urinary tract system. While the majority of UTI's are not serious, they can often cause severe symptoms, such as pain and/or burning upon urination.
UTI’s are more common in women as the urethra is short and closer to the rectum and vagina. Bacteria, often E. coli, which is beneficial to lower bowels, finds its way to the urinary tract causing the infection. E. coli cling to your urinary organs and simply can’t be washed out when you urinate.
Symptoms of a UTI
Cystitis doesn't always cause signs and symptoms, but you may experience some of the following:
- a strong, persistent urge to pee
- pain or burning sensation when peeing
- needing to pee more frequently
- pee that appears cloudy
- blood in your urine
- strong-smelling urine
Natural Ways to Treat Urinary Tract Infections
Luckily, if you've a mild UTI, you might not need a course of antibiotics to get rid of it. There are some natural remedies for UTI's you can try from the comfort of your own home! We've put together some simple tips to support the urinary system, as well as some natural ways to treat Urinary Tract Infections.
Cranberry
One of the most popular natural ways to treat Urinary Tract Infections has to be cranberry. Components of cranberry juice prevent certain bacteria, E. coli, from adhering to the bladder and urethra and in doing so help prevent infection.
Be careful which cranberry juice you buy as quite a lot have added sugars which encourage bacterial growth. Biona Organic Cranberry Juice is not from concentrate and has no added sugars.
Cranberry is also available in capsules such as BioCare Cranberry Intensive or Nature's Plus Ultra Cranberry 1000mg and in a concentrated tincture form in Nature's Answer Cranberry
D-Mannose
Like cranberry, D-mannose prevents E. coli adhering to the cell walls in the urinary system. D-mannose is the active ingredient in cranberry meaning they both have the same benefits. Both D-mannose and cranberry envelope around the E. coli bacteria, preventing it from adhering to the cell wall and aiding in the removal of E.coli during a UTI. We have D-Mannose supplements for adults and also for children in Apple & Blackcurrant or Strawberry flavour
Vitamin C
Vitamin C increases the acidity of the urine, producing an environment unfavourable for bacteria. It's also beneficial for the immune system, helping to fight the infection - read more about the wealth of health benefits of vitamin C.
Lactobacillus Acidophilus
Acidophilus is a specific strain of beneficial bacteria which helps prevent bladder infections related to candida. This should be taken daily, especially when taking antibiotics. Bio-Kult Pro-Cyan is specially formulated for those who suffer from recurring UTI’s and bladder infections including both cranberry and acidophilus. You could also try Nature's Plus GI Natural Probio Women
Herbal Teas
There are some great herbal teas you can try. Horsetail increases the excretion and strengthens the elastic tissue of the bladder wall. Lemon balm, nettle. dandelion and rosehips can all help clear up infections.
Watch Your Diet
There are some other things you can do to help tackle a UTI from a diet perspective:
Reduce:
- Sugar
- Refined carbohydrates
- Fruit juice, with added sugar
- Food allergens
- Alcohol
Increase:
- Water
- Garlic
- Organic, from concentrate cranberry juice
- Vegetables
- Berries
- Wholegrains
Testing for Urinary Tract Infections
Did you know that you can now test for a UTI at home? MyBio Urinary Infection Test (UTI) delivers reliable, quick and clear answers from the comfort of your home. If you're not sure if your symptoms point to a clear diagnosis, this can provide quick, reliable & accurate results - in minutes
Take a look at our full range of supplements to support Urinary Health here
Please note, this blog is for informational purposes only and should not replace medical advice.
It’s always best to consult your doctor before taking any new supplements, treatments or remedies if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or on medication.
Are you looking for more female health advice? Then red our blog 'PMS - Regain Your Hormone Health Balance'.
Checked and updated: 11 August 2021
