Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common and often painful women’s health issue: 60% of women will experience one in their lifetime. While men can also suffer from UTIs, women are much more likely to do so. Chronic UTIs are a particularly uncomfortable problem, with some affected women having to take long-term antibiotics. However, the use of long-term antibiotics is a significant concern for health researchers, as it contributes to antibiotic resistance, posing a severe risk to public health. As one of the most prevalent bacterial infections worldwide, UTIs contribute greatly to antibiotic resistance, as the go-to treatment is antibiotics. The World Health Organization found that one of the most widely used antibiotics for treating UTIs already has a 50% resistance rate, meaning that it is now ineffective for half of those who try it. By 2050, antibiotic-resistant superbugs could pose a threat to one in three people, so it’s more important than ever to avoid unnecessary antibiotics.
Cranberry can act as a potential source of both relief and prevention from UTIs without increasing antibiotic resistance. The remedy is far from a new discovery: researchers have been studying the cranberry’s potential to promote urinary tract health for over 50 years, but recent concerns about antibiotic resistance have motivated further research. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that drinking an 8 ounce glass of cranberry juice daily reduced symptomatic UTIs in chronic sufferers by 40%. This means that those with chronic UTIs could cut the frequency of their infections nearly in half, significantly reducing discomfort.
If you suffer from chronic UTIs, try adding a glass of cranberry juice to your daily routine, as it should help to reduce the number of infections you experience. Even if you only get UTIs occasionally, cranberry juice could prevent another infection, which would reduce antibiotic resistance and contribute positively to global public health. Opt for pure, unsweetened cranberry juice; avoid cranberry juice cocktails, as they contain fewer beneficial properties and more sugar.
Cranberry remedies are also available in tablet form, which provides concentrated amounts of cranberry extract without the need to consume a lot of juice. A proper daily dose of cranberry supplement can prevent bacteria from clinging to the walls of your urinary tract, staving off infections.
A few other tips to prevent UTIs include:
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps flush bacteria out of your urinary tract, reducing the likelihood of infection.
- Wipe front-to-back: Proper cleansing is essential after using the restroom to prevent bacteria from spreading and causing an infection.
- Urinate after intercourse: This practice can help to flush out any bacteria that may have infiltrated your urethra during sexual activity.
- Avoid feminine products: Products designed for use in the genital area, like douches, can contribute to UTIs by disrupting the natural balance of bacteria in your body.
Cranberry juice and tablets are not the only natural remedies that can help prevent and alleviate UTIs. Some other options you may want to explore include:
- D-Mannose: This natural sugar can be found in many fruits and works by preventing bacteria from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract.
- Probiotics: These beneficial bacteria can help to balance the bacteria in your body, which may reduce the likelihood of developing a UTI.
- Vitamin C: High doses of vitamin C can boost your immune system and make your urine more acidic, making it less hospitable to harmful bacteria.
- Uva-ursi: Also known as Bearberry, this herb has been used traditionally to help treat UTIs, as it has antibacterial properties.
Remember that while these natural remedies may help to prevent or treat UTIs, if you experience severe or lasting symptoms, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider to determine if antibiotics or other treatments may be necessary. But first, give these natural options a try, and you might just find that they provide the relief you need without the risks associated with antibiotic resistance.
