7 Home Remedies To Help Treat Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common problem among people of all ages and genders. However, they are more common in women, people with diabetes, and people with a spinal cord injury.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are common infections that can affect any part of your urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, urethra, and bladder. Research suggests that women, because of their anatomical makeup, are at a higher risk of contracting UTI. Although not a severe problem itself, the UTI, if not treated early, can spread to the kidneys, causing complications.

Doctors generally recommend antibiotics for UTI treatment, but you can also try home remedies for urine infection.

# Stay hydrated

Increasing your fluid intake is the most fundamental step in the treatment of UTIs.

You must drink a minimum of 8–10 glasses of water daily. Higher fluid intake will result in more urine production, making it easier for the body to expel the infection-causing bacteria from your system.

# Drink cranberry juice

Cranberries are almost entirely made up of water (about 90%) and are high in flavonoids.

These nutrient-rich berries are renowned for their antioxidant properties, but they also exhibit a mild degree of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activity, which can be optimized for combating UTIs.

The consumption of varying amounts of cranberry (450–720 ml) results in a low urinary pH.

Cranberry juice contains concentrated amounts of proanthocyanidins (PACs), a class of polyphenolic compounds that may prevent the infection-causing bacteria from adhering to the urethral opening. However, the recommended dose of PAC that engenders the desired effect is unclear.

Cranberries may also help lower the risk of UTI recurrence in otherwise healthy women. However, these results need to be confirmed by more high-quality and large-scale research.

# Take probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help to keep harmful bacteria in check.

Review studies found that probiotics may regulate urinary microbiota (UM), reducing the risk of urogenital infections and their recurrence.

However, further large-scale studies are needed to provide definitive insights into the therapeutic role of probiotics in UTI treatment.

Fermented foods such as Greek yogurt, sauerkraut, cheese, kimchi, and kefir are loaded with probiotics, but you can also take probiotics in supplement form.

As is the case with any other supplement, you must consult your doctor about the proper dosage before starting.

# Take D-mannose supplements

D-mannose is a natural sugar found in fruits and vegetables that may combat UTI-causing bacteria.

D-mannose powder was found to be as effective as conventional antibiotics (nitrofurantoin) in preventing recurrent UTI. However, these findings need to be confirmed by more rigorous and large-scale studies.

# Consume vitamin C

Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, helps acidify the urine and curbs the growth of bacteria, therefore preventing recurrence of UTIs.

You can consume vitamin C-rich foods such as citrus fruits, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, red and green peppers, green leafy vegetables, potatoes, and tomato.

Additionally, you may take vitamin C supplements upon consulting your doctor.

# Use a heating pad

The heat from a heating pad relieves the pain associated with UTIs. It also helps reduce bladder pressure.

Place a heating pad over your genital area for 15–20 minutes.

# Consume apple cider vinegar

The use of apple cider vinegar (ACV) for the treatment of UTIs is a popular anecdotal remedy. ACV can help prevent the growth of infection-causing bacteria.

Dilute ACV in a glass of water and honey, cranberry, or blueberry juice and consume.