What Is a Urinary Tract Infection?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when bacteria enters the urinary tract (typically through the urethra) and multiplies. The urinary tract consists of the urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidneys. Any part of the urinary tract can become infected, but UTIs typically start in the urethra or bladder. If left untreated, the infection can move up into the kidneys.
Research published in 2013 suggests that most UTIs are caused by E. coli, although other bacteria, viruses, and fungi can also lead to an infection. E. coli is a bacteria naturally found in both human and animal intestines but in large amounts can cause food poisoning and other kinds of infection.
SUGGESTED:SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF URINARY TRACT INFECTION.
How Can You Get a UTI?
Gender is the greatest risk factor for getting a UTI. The same study mentioned above showed that women are eight times more likely to contract a UTI than men. One theory is that because women have a shorter urethra, bacteria have an easier time reaching the bladder.
Other risk factors that can lead to a urinary tract infection include:
- Frequent Sexual Intercourse – Sexual activity can transport bacteria from the anus and genitals into the urinary tract. If you notice that sexual activity leads to UTIs, be sure to urinate after sex to immediately flush out the bladder. Also, give Uqora (mentioned below) a try.
- Using Spermicides – A 2019 study in the Therapeutic Advances in Urology Journal suggests that spermicides can change the pH balance of the vagina. This change in pH can change the bacterial profile of the vagina too (some bacteria grow better or worse in certain pH levels).
- Using Barrier Methods of Birth Control – Diaphragms, condoms, and other barrier methods lead to a greater risk of contracting a UTI, as this study from 2011 reports. Women who don’t want to use hormonal birth control and use these methods may be at risk.
- Using Catheters – Catheters can also lead to UTIs. The 2019 study (mentioned above) suggests that catheter use can also increase the risk of developing UTIs and lead to other complications.
- Being Pregnant – Many women have experienced their first UTI (or more frequent UTIs) during pregnancy. The reason is that the risk of bacteria reaching the kidneys increases during pregnancy (due to changes in the pelvis and urethra), according to an article published in Global Advances in Health and Medicine. UTIs can present serious problems for both the mother and baby so it’s important to prevent them if possible or get treatment quickly.
- Being Post-Menopausal – The 2019 study mentioned earlier explains that a woman’s body creates less estrogen following menopause which can cause the vaginal walls to become thin and dry. This change in the vagina can make inflammation and infection occur more easily. (This post on vaginal atrophy explains more in-depth.)
- Immune System Issues and Disease – Preexisting conditions and immune dysfunction can cause more frequent UTIs. According to a 2013 review, autoimmune diseases, metabolic disease are two disease that can have this affect. It makes sense that an immune system that is not working well can cause more infections in general, but, on the othr hand, some research published in 2010 found that the normal immune response to a UTI can damage the bladder and lead to more infections.
- Having Poor Hygiene Habits – This is a big one for kids and adults. Teach young girls (and remember yourself) to always wipe from front to back to prevent spreading bacteria toward the vaginal opening. Also, drink plenty of water and use the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge to go. Both of these things will prevent bacteria from building up in the bladder.
Just because you have risk factors doesn’t mean you’re destined to suffer from UTIs though. There are many things you can do to prevent, and even stop, a UTI.
- probiotics
- Eat a variety of fermented foods
- Eat foods high in glycine (unsweetened grass-fed gelatin, meats, bone broth, etc.)
If urinary tract infections are a recurring problem, consider working with a naturopath or functional medicine doctor to determine the root cause. They may help you make changes in your diet or lifestyle that will minimize the need for antibiotics in the future.Natural Remedies for a Urinary Tract Infection
If you’re experiencing a UTI (or think you might be), there are many home remedies that can help relieve discomfort and prevent reoccurrence. Use these tips to prevent and naturally treat a UTI at home.
Diet
A foundation of a healthy diet is usually a good first step for improving health. Studies suggest that diet (along with other factors) can influence the health of our urinary tract specifically. Of course, if you already have the beginnings of a UTI, changing your diet may not be enough to reverse it. But these diet tips can help prevent infections (and improve overall health!):
Reduce Your Sugar Intake
Sugar is inflammatory which only makes infections worse. If you easily get UTIs, eliminating sugary foods and drinks is a good first step. You may even need to cut down on natural sugars like fruit (bacteria don’t care what kind of sugar you eat — they love it all.
Eliminate Processed Foods
Processed foods provide very little (if any) nutrients. They are mostly just fillers that ward off hunger (and don’t do a great job at that either!). Processed foods are also usually high in sugar and carbohydrates which feed bad bacteria.
Eat a Variety of Fermented and Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Probiotics play an important role in the health of the urinary tract. They supply the body with good bacteria that will keep the bad bacteria in check. Fermented foods such as sauerkraut, organic whole milk yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and kombucha naturally contain probiotics.
Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking water will help the body flush toxins out of the system. I keep a reusable water bottle with me at all times to make sure I stay hydrated.
Avoid Acidic Foods When Treating a UTI
Sometimes even healthy foods need to be left alone when treating a UTI. Eating or drinking anything that will increase the acidity of your urine will make a UTI more difficult to treat, and often more painful. I avoid caffeine, chocolate, tomatoes, and citrus foods during a UTI.
Diet can have such a huge effect on overall health and can help with specific ailments as well. When the body is properly supported it can often rebalance itself (perhaps with a little additional support).
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BLADDER STONES: CAUSES, SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS, ALTERNATIVE TREATMENT.
Uqora
This product is another great option. It naturally encourages the body to rid itself of harmful bacteria (while strengthening good bacteria numbers). Uqora comes in three forms that help UTIs in different ways:
- Target – Binds to bacteria, increases urinary flow to flush bacteria out, alkalizes the urine, making it more difficult for bacteria to grow, and boosts the immune system.
- Control – Contains D-Mannose and attacks biofilm (a film that protects bacteria) and makes it easier to flush bacteria out.
- Promote – Helps support probiotic growth, especially Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus reuteri, which are the only two strains proven to help restore the vaginal microbiome.
I love that this supplement is an all-in-one natural remedy so I don’t have to spend time and energy finding the right combination of remedies for my needs.
D-mannose
I always keep D-mannose on hand for UTIs. A 2016 article in the European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Science showed that D-mannose can help to manage recurrent UTIs. This simple sugar can be added to water or taken in a pill form. It works by making it difficult for bacteria to stick to the walls of the bladder, and easier for them to be flushed from the body through urination. When I feel a UTI coming on, I reach for the D-mannose and put one tablespoon in a glass of water three times a day for at least two days.
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