Can you treat a urinary tract infection without antibiotics. What are the most effective natural remedies for UTI symptoms. How to prevent recurring UTIs using home treatments. Is it safe to rely solely on alternative therapies for UTIs.

Understanding Urinary Tract Infections: Causes, Symptoms, and Risk Factors

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common and often painful condition affecting millions of people each year. These infections occur when bacteria, typically Escherichia coli (E. coli), enter the urinary system and multiply. While UTIs can affect anyone, they are particularly prevalent among women due to their shorter urethra, which allows bacteria easier access to the bladder.

Common symptoms of a UTI include:

• A burning sensation during urination
• Frequent and urgent need to urinate
• Lower abdominal pain or discomfort
• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
• Blood in the urine
• Lower back pain

In more severe cases, when the infection spreads to the kidneys, additional symptoms may include fever, nausea, and vomiting. It’s crucial to recognize these signs early to prevent complications and seek appropriate treatment.

The Role of Antibiotics in Treating UTIs: Benefits and Concerns

Traditionally, antibiotics have been the go-to treatment for urinary tract infections. They are highly effective in eliminating the bacteria causing the infection and providing relief from symptoms. However, the overuse of antibiotics has led to growing concerns about antibiotic resistance and potential side effects.

Are there viable alternatives to antibiotics for treating UTIs? While antibiotics remain the most reliable treatment, especially for severe infections, there is increasing interest in natural remedies and preventive measures that can complement or, in some cases, potentially replace antibiotic use for mild UTIs.

Cranberry: A Time-Honored Remedy for UTI Prevention

Cranberries have long been associated with urinary tract health. The potential benefits of cranberries in preventing UTIs stem from their high content of proanthocyanidins, compounds that may inhibit bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract walls.

How effective is cranberry in preventing UTIs? While research results have been mixed, some studies suggest that regular consumption of cranberry products may reduce the risk of recurrent UTIs, particularly in women. Cranberry can be consumed in various forms:

• Unsweetened cranberry juice
• Cranberry supplements
• Dried cranberries

It’s important to note that while cranberry may have preventive benefits, it is not a substitute for antibiotics in treating active infections. Always consult with a healthcare provider before relying on cranberry products as a primary prevention strategy.

Hydration: The Simplest Yet Most Effective UTI Prevention Strategy

Proper hydration is fundamental in maintaining urinary tract health and preventing UTIs. Drinking adequate amounts of water helps flush bacteria out of the urinary system, reducing the risk of infection.

How much water should you drink to prevent UTIs? While individual needs may vary, aiming for 6-8 glasses of water per day is generally recommended. Increasing fluid intake is particularly important when you’re at higher risk of developing a UTI, such as during hot weather or after sexual activity.

In addition to water, certain beverages may offer additional benefits:

• Herbal teas, particularly those containing uva ursi or bearberry leaf
• Unsweetened cranberry juice
• Probiotic-rich drinks like kefir or kombucha

Remember, while staying hydrated is crucial, it’s equally important to urinate frequently and completely to help flush out bacteria from the urinary tract.

Probiotics: Balancing the Microbiome for Urinary Health

The human body hosts a complex ecosystem of microorganisms, collectively known as the microbiome. This includes beneficial bacteria that play a crucial role in maintaining health, including urinary tract health. Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, can provide health benefits by supporting the body’s natural flora.

How do probiotics help prevent UTIs? Probiotics, particularly strains like Lactobacillus, may help prevent UTIs by:

• Competing with harmful bacteria for resources and space
• Producing substances that inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria
• Strengthening the immune system
• Maintaining a healthy pH balance in the urinary tract

While more research is needed to fully understand the role of probiotics in UTI prevention, incorporating probiotic-rich foods or supplements into your diet may offer some protective benefits. Good sources of probiotics include:

• Yogurt with live cultures
• Kefir
• Sauerkraut
• Kimchi
• Kombucha

When considering probiotic supplements, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate strains and dosages for your specific needs.

D-Mannose: A Promising Natural Compound for UTI Prevention

D-Mannose is a type of sugar closely related to glucose. Unlike glucose, however, D-Mannose is not readily metabolized by the body and is instead primarily excreted through the urine. This unique property makes D-Mannose an interesting candidate for UTI prevention and treatment.

How does D-Mannose work against UTIs? D-Mannose is thought to work by binding to E. coli bacteria, preventing them from attaching to the walls of the urinary tract. This binding action allows the bacteria to be flushed out of the system during urination.

Several studies have shown promising results for D-Mannose in preventing recurrent UTIs. In one study, D-Mannose was found to be as effective as the antibiotic nitrofurantoin in preventing recurrent UTIs, with fewer side effects.

D-Mannose is available as a dietary supplement and can be found in some foods, including:

• Cranberries
• Blueberries
• Peaches
• Apples

While D-Mannose shows promise, it’s important to note that more research is needed to fully establish its efficacy and safety profile. As with any supplement, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting D-Mannose, especially if you have diabetes or are pregnant.

Herbal Remedies: Ancient Wisdom for Modern UTI Management

Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including urinary tract infections. While scientific evidence for many herbal treatments is limited, some herbs have shown potential in managing UTI symptoms and supporting urinary tract health.

Which herbs are commonly used for UTIs? Some of the most frequently cited herbal remedies for UTIs include:

• Uva Ursi (Bearberry leaf): Known for its antiseptic properties
• Goldenseal: Contains berberine, which may have antimicrobial effects
• Garlic: Has natural antibacterial properties
• Echinacea: May boost the immune system
• Marshmallow root: Could help soothe irritated tissues

It’s important to approach herbal remedies with caution. While they may offer benefits, they can also interact with medications and have side effects. Always consult with a healthcare provider or a qualified herbalist before using herbal remedies, especially if you’re pregnant, nursing, or taking other medications.

Preparing Herbal Remedies for UTIs

If you’re considering using herbs for UTI management, here are some common preparation methods:

1. Herbal teas: Steep the herb in hot water for 5-10 minutes, strain, and drink.
2. Tinctures: Liquid extracts that can be added to water or juice.
3. Capsules: Convenient for precise dosing, but may have slower absorption.

Remember, while herbal remedies may provide relief for mild UTI symptoms, they should not replace professional medical advice or treatment for severe or persistent infections.

Lifestyle Changes: Long-Term Strategies for UTI Prevention

While natural remedies can be helpful in managing and preventing UTIs, incorporating certain lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk of developing these infections in the long term.

What lifestyle modifications can help prevent UTIs? Consider implementing the following strategies:

• Practice good hygiene: Wipe from front to back after using the toilet to prevent bacteria from the anal area from entering the urethra.
• Urinate after sexual activity: This helps flush out any bacteria that may have been introduced during intercourse.
• Avoid irritating feminine products: Douches, powders, and scented products can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the urinary tract.
• Wear breathable underwear: Cotton underwear allows better air circulation, reducing moisture that can promote bacterial growth.
• Stay active: Regular exercise can boost overall health and immune function.
• Manage chronic conditions: Conditions like diabetes can increase UTI risk, so proper management is crucial.

By incorporating these lifestyle changes along with natural remedies, you can create a comprehensive approach to UTI prevention that may reduce your reliance on antibiotics over time.

When to Seek Medical Attention: Recognizing the Limits of Natural Remedies

While natural remedies and lifestyle changes can be effective in preventing and managing mild UTIs, it’s crucial to recognize when professional medical attention is necessary. Untreated or severe UTIs can lead to serious complications, including kidney infections.

When should you see a doctor for a UTI? Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Severe pain or discomfort
• Fever or chills
• Nausea or vomiting
• Blood in the urine
• Symptoms that persist for more than a few days
• Recurrent UTIs

Remember, while natural remedies can be beneficial, they should not replace professional medical advice or treatment when needed. A healthcare provider can accurately diagnose a UTI and recommend the most appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics in some cases.

In conclusion, while antibiotics remain the primary treatment for UTIs, incorporating natural remedies and lifestyle changes can play a significant role in prevention and symptom management. By staying informed and working closely with healthcare providers, individuals can develop a comprehensive approach to urinary tract health that balances conventional medicine with natural alternatives.

Can You Treat UTIs Without Antibiotics? 8 Remedies to Try

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A urinary tract infection (UTI) can knock you off your feet, causing a range of symptoms. You can use these home remedies to help manage those symptoms.

A urinary tract infection (UTI) can knock you off your feet, causing a range of symptoms like bloody urine and pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic region.

These infections are responsible for roughly 8 million doctor visits each year and are the second most common type of infection to occur in the human body. They occur more often in women but can affect men as well.

Antibiotics are required to treat UTIs and can help speed up recovery, manage symptoms, and prevent complications. If left untreated, UTIs can lead to serious complications and health problems.

In addition to using antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare professional, there are several home remedies that may help ease symptoms and prevent a recurrence.

A note on gender

We use “women” and “men” in this article to reflect the terms that have been historically used to gender people. But your gender identity may not align with how your body responds to this disease.

Your doctor can better help you understand how your specific circumstances will translate into diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment.

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A urinary tract infection is a type of infection that occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract and multiply. This infection can affect one or more areas within the urinary tract, including the:

• urethra
• bladder
• ureters
• kidneys

Symptoms

UTIs can cause symptoms, such as:

• painful, burning sensation while urinating
• frequent urge to urinate, often producing little urine
• lower abdominal pain
• urine leakage
• cloudy or foul-smelling urine
• bloody urine
• lower back pain

If a UTI spreads to the kidneys, which is a serious infection, you may have symptoms like:

• fever
• upper back pain
• nausea and vomiting

Causes

Though UTIs can affect anyone, they’re more common in women. In fact, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases estimates that 40% to 60% of women will have at least one UTI in their lifetime.

This is because people assigned female at birth have a shorter urethra, so it’s easier for bacteria to enter their bladder.

UTIs in men are often related to an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hypertrophy) blocking the flow of urine. This allows bacteria to have an easier time occupying the urinary tract.

In almost 90% of cases, the bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli) is the cause of the UTI. E. coli is normally found inside the intestines. When confined to the intestines, it’s harmless. But sometimes, this bacterium gets into the urinary tract and causes an infection.

Sex may trigger a UTI in women. This is because intercourse can move bacteria from the anal area to near the opening of the urethra. Women can lower their risk of infection by urinating after sexual activity.

Using spermicides, diaphragms, and condoms may also raise the risk of a UTI. The risk is higher in people with a weakened immune system as well.

UTI fast facts

• UTIs are the second most common type of infection.
• E. coli is the cause of most UTIs, but viruses and other germs can also cause them.
• There are 8 million UTI-related doctor visits per year in the United States.

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Other home remedies to get rid of a UTI without antibiotics

Until there are more advancements in UTI treatment, antibiotics remain the most effective standard treatment.

Along with standard antibiotic therapy prescribed by a healthcare professional, you can try several home remedies to feel better sooner and reduce the likelihood of recurrent infections. Read on to learn about some alternative UTI treatments.

Cranberries may contain an ingredient that stops bacteria from attaching to the walls of the urinary tract.

Though research is inconclusive, some studies suggest that you might be able to reduce your risk of UTIs with cranberry products, including unsweetened cranberry juice, cranberry supplements, or dried cranberries.

But other studies have noted that the use of cranberries to prevent UTIs doesn’t produce consistent results, so more research is needed.

If you’re interested in trying cranberries to support urinary tract health, consider 365 by Whole Foods Market, Organic 100% Pure Cranberry Juice. This organic option contains no added sugar.

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Although urinating can be painful when you have a UTI, it’s important to drink as many fluids as possible — particularly water. Most adults should aim to drink between six and eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day.

The more you drink, the more you’ll urinate, which can help flush harmful bacteria from the urinary tract.

Holding your urine or ignoring the urge to urinate can allow bacteria to multiply in your urinary tract. As a rule of thumb, always use the bathroom when you feel the urge.

It’s also important to make sure you’re fully emptying your bladder when you urinate, and to always urinate after sex, especially if you have a vagina. If you do, it’s also important to wipe front to back after you urinate.

Probiotics promote healthy digestion and immunity. They also may be effective in treating and preventing UTIs when used alongside standard antibiotic therapy.

With a UTI, bad bacteria replace good bacteria in the urogenital system, especially those of one group called Lactobacillus. Probiotics can restore good bacteria and might reduce the recurrence of a UTI.

Though some research suggests that probiotics may be effective in UTI prevention and treatment, more studies are needed.

If you’re interested in trying probiotics for urinary tract health, consider Uqoura Promote Daily Probiotic supplement, a capsule designed to promote vaginal health, which in turn supports the health of the urinary tract.

Shop now at Uqora

UTI supplement options

Read our full review of Uqora, a company that focuses on developing natural supplements for UTI prevention.

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Increasing your intake of vitamin C may help boost your immune system.

But some research has found conflicting evidence for the effectiveness of vitamin C in treating UTIs, noting that not enough studies have been done to support this treatment.

If you don’t love freshly squeezed orange juice, you can add a Nature’s Bounty Vitamin C caplet to your supplement routine. Each caplet contains 1,000 milligrams of vitamin C.

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Wearing cotton-lined and loose-fitting clothing may ease symptoms of an existing UTI infection by helping to keep the area dry and clean.

Tight-fitting clothing and certain types of fabric can trap moisture that allows bacteria to grow in the genital area, which could worsen the infection.

Some older research suggests that certain contraceptives may contribute to the cause of UTIs in some women.

If you use diaphragms, spermicides, or nonlubricated condoms and get frequent UTIs, it may be worth talking with your doctor to consider other methods of birth control.

Prescription birth control can be easily obtained through online birth control services, where you can speak with a doctor to find the right option for you. These services vary in price and offerings and they can be a discreet, convenient way to get the consultation and protection you need.

Healthline’s picks for the best online birth control services

Here are some of our favorite telehealth platforms that offer birth control prescriptions and consultations:

• Nurx
• Lemonaid
• SimpleHealth

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Applying a heating pad to your lower abdomen can help ease some of the discomfort that comes with a UTI and reduce frequent trips to the bathroom that can cause painful burning.

If you’re experiencing severe pain that doesn’t let up even with at-home methods, it’s probably best to see a doctor about your symptoms.

A great heating pad option is the DMI Dry and Moist Heat Electric Heating Pad, which not only has an extra-long cord for convenience, but also features four heat options and automatic shutoff for safety.

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Pricing guide

• $ = under $10
• $$ = $10—$30
• $$$ = over $30

Most UTIs aren’t serious if treated promptly with antibiotics. But if left untreated, the infection can spread up to the kidneys and bloodstream, and become life threatening. Kidney infections can lead to kidney damage and kidney scarring.

Symptoms of a UTI usually improve within 2 to 4 days after starting antibiotic therapy. Many doctors prescribe an antibiotic for at least 3 days.

But some UTIs don’t clear up after antibiotic therapy, which may mean that a different type of antibiotic is required.

The overuse or misuse of antibiotics can also contribute to antibiotic resistance, a growing problem that can make it more challenging to treat issues like recurrent UTIs. Because of this risk, experts have been looking for other ways to treat UTIs alongside antibiotics.

Antibiotic resistance 101

• When certain antibiotics are prescribed repeatedly, the bacteria they target can grow resistant to them.
• At least 2 million people per year in the United States contract antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

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Some research has shown that UTIs may be treated without traditional antibiotics by targeting E. coli’s surface component for adhesion, FimH.

Typically, the urinary tract flushes away bacteria when you urinate. But according to researchers, FimH can cause E. coli to firmly attach to the cells in the urinary tract, which can make it hard for the body to naturally flush the bacteria from the urinary tract.

If researchers can uncover a way to target this protein with other types of therapies, there may someday be other treatment options for UTIs, in addition to antibiotics.

D-mannose

D-mannose is a sugar that sticks to E. coli. Recently, researchers have studied the possibility of using D-mannose and other mannose-containing substances to block the binding of FimH to the lining of the urinary tract.

One 2021 review concluded that D-mannose could help reduce the incidence of recurrent UTIs and improve quality of life. More research is needed, but potentially, a medication that uses a mannose-containing substance that opposes FimH from attaching to the lining of the urinary tract could show promise for the treatment of UTIs caused by E. coli.

Researchers have also tested immune-boosting drugs, which could help urinary tract cells become more resistant to infections.

The American Urological Association (AUA) recommends vaginal estrogen as a nonantibiotic option for perimenopausal or postmenopausal women seeking to prevent recurrent infections.

Some research estimates that 25% to 42% of uncomplicated UTIs can go away on their own. This is usually only common in women with no other health issues.

But there are some serious risks that can come from leaving a UTI untreated, including pyelonephritis and sepsis. Therefore, it’s important to talk with your doctor and seek treatment if you suspect you may have a UTI.

Here are a few tips for keeping UTIs at bay.

Skip baths

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend taking showers instead of baths to help prevent UTIs. If you’re prone to frequent UTIs, you may want to swap your soothing soaks with luxurious showers.

Invest in a bidet

Wiping from front to back after going to the bathroom can help prevent the spread of bacteria to the urethra, but it can be tough to clean thoroughly with toilet paper alone. You can be clean without having to jump in the shower by installing an inexpensive bidet attachment, like the LUXE Bidet Neo 120.

A bidet isn’t just a great option for cleaning up after going number two. You can use it to freshen up after sex or while having your period.

Wash your genital area properly

Proper washing doesn’t include douching or the use of scented products. In fact, these can cause irritation and exacerbate down-there issues. Instead, choose a gentle cleanser, like Cetaphil, or wash with water alone.

Drink lots of water

The same advice for treating a UTI goes for preventing one. Drinking plenty of water on a regular basis helps flush out nasty bacteria that can lead to infections.

UTIs are painful. But with antibiotic treatment, you can address the infection and stop the pain. Talk with your doctor if you have symptoms of a UTI. With proper treatment, you should begin to feel better in a few days.

Take your antibiotics as instructed — even after your symptoms improve — to prevent complications or a secondary infection.

If the UTI doesn’t resolve after antibiotic treatment or you end up with multiple episodes of a UTI, your doctor will likely do further testing.

This could be in the form of:

• a repeat urine culture
• urinary tract ultrasound
• plain film X-ray
• CT scan
• cystoscopy
• urodynamic testing

You may be referred to a urologist, depending on the severity of your UTI, or if you have chronic infections.

Certain strains of bacteria can cause UTIs. They can range from mild to severe. The degree of severity depends on multiple factors, including:

• your immune system status
• the bacterium causing the UTI
• where in your urinary tract the UTI is happening

Your doctor will be able to provide you with an evaluation tailored to your needs in order to make the right diagnosis and determine the proper therapy.

If you need help finding a primary care doctor, then check out our FindCare tool here.

Can UTIs go away on their own?

Research estimates that 25% to 42% of uncomplicated UTIs in women can go away on their own.

But keep in mind that there are risks associated with leaving UTIs untreated, so it’s important to seek treatment from a healthcare professional if you suspect you have a UTI.

Do you need to see a doctor to get antibiotics for a UTI?

You need to speak with your doctor or a licensed medical professional to be prescribed antibiotics for a UTI. This can usually be done in person, at the doctor, or over the phone.

If this is your first UTI or your symptoms are severe, it may be helpful to get treated in person. You may also want to consider an in-person visit with your healthcare professional to rule out sexually transmitted infections (STIs) if you’re sexually active or have several sexual partners.

How long do UTIs last?

With antibiotic treatment, symptoms of a UTI typically improve within 2 to 4 days.

But this can vary depending on many factors, including how quickly you receive treatment, the severity of your infection, and whether any complications arise.

Keep in mind that the course of antibiotics should be completed for UTI symptoms to completely resolve and prevent recurrent infections.

What’s the fastest way to get rid of a UTI?

Antibiotics are the fastest and most effective method for treating bacterial UTIs.

How long does it take for a UTI to go away without antibiotics?

Sometimes, UTIs clear up on their own. It can take about a week for symptoms to subside.

What’s the most effective home remedy for a UTI?

There’s limited research on the effectiveness of UTI home remedies. If you’re experiencing symptoms of a UTI, especially if they’re severe, it’s important to consult with a doctor.

Do you need an antibiotic to get rid of chronic UTIs?

A short course of antibiotics is typically the first-line treatment for UTIs. But for chronic infections, a doctor might prescribe a long-term, low dose antibiotic.

UTIs can be very common. If you suspect you may have a UTI or are experiencing any symptoms, try these home remedies to alleviate any symptoms you’re experiencing. If they don’t get better or the symptoms seem worse, be sure to speak with your doctor to get a proper diagnosis and be prescribed antibiotics.

10 Powerful Natural UTI Remedies to Try Today

10 Of The Most Powerful Natural UTI Remedies, According To A Functional Medicine Expert

Burning, itching, and constantly running to the bathroom are sure signs of a urinary tract infection – an unfortunate reality for a majority of women. In fact, close to 50 to 60 percent of women (1) will have at least one in their lifetime and about one-third of women (2) will require antibiotic treatment for a UTI by the age of 24. And that’s not including the many women who suffer from recurring UTIs.

So what’s the deal? As a functional medicine expert, it is my job to get to the root of your health problems so you can live a life free from the weight of your symptoms. Thankfully, once you understand what causes most UTIs, there’s a lot you can do to treat them naturally. Let’s take a look at some of the best natural remedies for UTIs so you can kick them to the curb once-and for-all.

ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW

What is a UTI?

Urinary tract infections occur when there is an infection caused by bacteria – mainly Escherichia coli, which are responsible for about 80 to 85% (3) of all UTIs – viruses, or fungi. While UTI is a more general term for this type of infection; in reality, infections can occur in the ureters, bladder, urethra, or even the kidneys, which have the important job of filtering your blood and producing urine.

Symptoms of a UTI

Not only are UTIs painful, they make themselves known through their distinct symptoms. A urinary tract infection starts in your urethra and bladder before spreading to your kidneys and becoming more serious. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms you are most likely in the early stages of a urinary tract infection.

• Burning sensation when urinating
• Frequent urination
• Cloudy urine
• Bloody urine (red, pink, or brightly colored urine)
• Constant urge to urinate
• Strong-smelling urine
• Pelvic pain

However, if your infection has spread to your kidneys, you may experience more severe symptoms like:

• Side pain
• High fever
• Back pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Chills

If left untreated, a kidney infection can result in severe health complications. As long as you pay attention to your symptoms and listen to your body, the likelihood that your UTI will result in a kidney infection is rare.

Antibiotics vs natural remedies for UTIs

In conventional medicine, your doctor will run a simple test to detect the presence of bacteria in your urine. Once you are diagnosed with a UTI, your doctor will likely prescribe you one of the following antibiotics depending on the specific bacteria causing your infection:

• Nitrofurantoin
• Sulfonamides 
• Amoxicillin
• Cephalosporins
• Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole 
• Doxycycline
• Quinolones 

While antibiotics can be necessary – and even life saving – conventional doctors have the habit of overprescribing antibiotics resulting in their own set of side effects. In fact, according to the CDC, close to 30 percent (4) of antibiotic prescriptions are unnecessary, with some reports claiming that number is closer to 50 percent.

The biggest downside to constant antibiotic use is the damage it does to our microbiome. Antibiotics work by targeting and killing off bacteria. This is great when it comes to pathogenic bacteria that contribute to UTIs, but the problem is, antibiotics don’t discriminate. Since antibiotics can kill any and all bacteria in their path, they can also end up depleting the good strains of bacteria in your microbiome that actually contribute to a strong immune system and maintaining your overall health.

In functional medicine, we understand that antibiotics aren’t always bad and there are times when they are absolutely necessary. However, we aim to do what we can naturally in order to prevent having to prescribe antibiotics unnecessarily. 

Whether that is facilitating healthy urinary tract health to stave off an infection or using natural remedies to fight off an infection before antibiotics are needed, functional medicine looks at treatment through the lens of the question “what is going to give me the greatest results, with the least amount of side effects?”. Sometimes antibiotics fit that bill – especially in the case of UTIs that can escalate quickly without proper intervention.

The best natural UTI remedies

Now that you know how bad antibiotics can be if they aren’t needed, you’re probably asking yourself “How can I get rid of my UTI without antibiotics?” and “What is the fastest way to cure a UTI naturally?”. Although I can’t promise you that you won’t ever need to take an antibiotic for a UTI again, these natural UTI remedies can greatly diminish the likelihood that you’ll have to turn to an antibiotic for relief.

1. D-mannose

D-mannose is a naturally occurring sugar that is found in foods like apples, blueberries, and cranberries. D-mannose is effective at preventing UTIs because it’s known for binding themselves to E.coli bacteria (5) – the same E.coli that causes upwards of 80% of UTIs – and making sure they get eliminated through the urine instead of sticking to the walls of the urinary tract. 

One study tested the effects of 2 grams of D-mannose powder in 200 ml of water daily for 6 months and found that it significantly lowered the incidence of recurrent UTIs and has fewer side effects than Nitrofurantoin, an antibiotic commonly used for recurrent UTIs. D-mannose can be taken daily in a glass of water as a preventative measure or multiple times a day if you are trying to get over a current infection.  

2. Probiotics

Probiotics are most often known for improving digestive health, but the truth is, supporting a healthy microbiome can benefit your health in more ways than one. For example, the use of probiotics can enhance your immune system, which can help you prevent infections — including UTIs. In fact, one study found that taking the beneficial bacteria Lactobacillus (6) helped cut recurrent UTIs in a group of women by about half. 

3. Vitamin C

We all know Vitamin C is a superstar immune supporter. While this is helpful for fighting off any sort of infection, studies have shown (7) that Vitamin C is also particularly great at treating UTIs by increasing the acidity of your urine resulting in less bacterial growth. 

4. Oregano oil

If you are wondering, “what is the best natural antibiotic for UTI?”, oregano oil is your answer. Known for its powerful antibacterial properties, oregano oil has been shown (8) to kill off E. coli – the same bacteria that causes the majority of UTI cases. You can find oregano oil in capsule form and take it daily.

5. Garlic

Talk about a superfood! Crushed garlic in particular has high levels of the active compound, allicin, which studies have shown to have strong antimicrobial properties against multiple strains of bacteria, including E. coli. (9) So if you’re fighting off a UTI, just add a few more garlic cloves to your next meal!

Tips to prevent UTIs

Prevention is one of the key principles in functional medicine. Although it is nice to have the option to treat your UTI naturally, it’s even nicer to not have to deal with a UTI in the first place. Here’s what you can do now to fight off a UTI before it even starts.

1. Pee often

If you’re suffering from recurrent UTIs, this might seem overly simple. But the truth is, regular urination can help flush bacteria from the urinary tract to prevent infections. Research supports this; for example, a 2003 study on 141 girls (10) showed that infrequent urination is associated with recurrent UTIs.

2. Drink enough water

With that being said, what’s the best way to pee frequently? Drinking a ton of water. The same 2003 study found that low fluid intake also plays a role in frequent UTIs.

3. Urinate after sex

Peeing helps to clear out any bacteria that might have entered your urethra while having sex that can contribute to a UTI. 

4. Stay dry

Pathogenic bacteria love a moist environment. Drying completely after showering or swimming can prevent bacteria from multiplying and causing an infection down there. If you are working out or doing an activity where you are sweating more, make sure to wear loose clothing and/or shower and dry off completely immediately afterwards. This is good practice if you are trying to prevent a UTI or fight off a current infection.

5. Switch out your birth control

Spermicide is a chemical that kills sperm before it has a chance to fertilize an egg. They can be found in different forms such as gels, creams, or diaphragms that are inserted into the vagina. Although these are effective at preventing pregnancy, they can significantly increase your risk and frequency of UTIs.

When to see a medical professional

If you have frequent UTIs or symptoms of urinary tract infections, it’s important to rule out Interstitial Cystitis. Often mistaken for a UTI, this chronic bladder infection is an autoimmune condition that mimics the symptoms of a urinary tract infection but without the infection, leaving many women to be misdiagnosed. The telltale sign as to whether or not your symptoms are actually a UTI and not IC is that your symptoms don’t go away with antibiotic use. This is because your symptoms are due to autoimmunity and there is no bacterial infection for the antibiotic to fight off.

Also, if your UTI symptoms don’t seem to get better after a day of at-home treatments, it is important to see your doctor right away so that they can prescribe you antibiotics in order to avoid the infection spreading to your kidneys.

Seeking help from a functional medicine doctor

If you are struggling with recurring UTIs it’s important to seek out help from a functional medicine doctor. In my telehealth functional medicine clinic, we run extensive labs to look at the root cause of why you are struggling with UTIs and if autoimmunity might be a factor. By looking at your health case in its entirety we can come up with the best treatment plan depending on factors such as diet and lifestyle that could be contributing to the development of these infections. Schedule a telehealth consultation today to learn more about how we can help you with functional medicine.

As one of the first functional medicine telehealth clinics in the world, we provide webcam health consultations for people around the globe.

Photo: unsplash.com

The information on this website has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration or any other medical body. We do not aim to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. Information is shared for educational purposes only. You must consult your doctor before acting on any content on this website, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.

Our content may include products that have been independently chosen and recommended by Dr. Will Cole and our editors. If you purchase something mentioned in this article, we may earn a small commission.

Urinary Tract Infection Supercomplex in just 7 days*

01/27/2023

New D – mannose 2000 mg – unique ¹ developed by Evalar experts. It contains 4 components – D – mannose in the correct ²
dosage of 2000 mg, extracts of cranberry and bearberry, magnesium in the organic form of citrate. They enhance each other’s properties, contributing to full protection against urinary tract infections. ³ We dissolve the contents of the sachet in water and get a drink with a pleasant berry taste. Another advantage of the novelty is a convenient and short course of administration: 1 sachet for 7 days. ³

Thanks to the enhanced composition, the supercomplex D -mannose 2000 mg from Evalar contributes to: ³

• full protection against bladder infections and prevention of their recurrence;

• reducing the risk of attachment of uropathogenic bacteria to the mucous membrane of the urinary tract;

• maintaining the health of the urinary system.

The drug can be used even during pregnancy and breastfeeding on the recommendation and under the supervision of a specialist. The finished drink does not contain sugar, and natural flavor gives it a pleasant berry taste.

You can buy a novelty in any branded pharmacy of the Evalar network and in other pharmacies of the country. It can also be ordered in our online store shop.evalar.ru
and on the marketplace fitomarket.ru .

* According to SoGR, the duration of admission is 7 days.
¹ In the assortment of ZAO Evalar.
² Tsareva A.V. Acute and recurrent cystitis. Difficult patient. breast cancer. Medical review. 2021;5(3):130-133.
³ Approved by CoGR No. AM.01.07.01.003.R.000683.07.22 of 20.07.2022 90 007

06/21/2023

06/21/2023

06/21/2023

For urinary tract health – Mēness aptieka

FREE delivery to parcel machines DPD to throughout Latvia!

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Food supplement
HIMALAYA Cystone tablets, 100 pcs.

€4 ⁸⁴
€9 ⁶⁹

Lowest price within 30d: € 9.69

Food supplement

SOLURO DUO capsules, 30 pcs.

€9 ⁵⁰
€13 ⁵⁷

Lowest price within 30d: € 13.57

Food supplement
CRANBERRY STRONG capsules, 60 pcs.

€13 ²⁹
€18 ⁹⁹

Lowest price within 30d: € 18. 99

Food supplement

JONAX Uronex tablets, 30 ml

€5 ⁸¹
€7 ⁷⁵

Lowest price within 30d: € 7.75

Food supplement
FITOLIZYNA Nefrocaps Plus capsules, 30 pcs.

Food supplement
IDELYN Urinal Akut tablets, 10 pcs.

3 atsauksmes

Food supplement
IDELYN Urinal capsules, 60 pcs.