What are the best herbs and natural supplements for preventing and treating urinary tract infections (UTIs)? Learn about 8 effective options like D-mannose, uva ursi, cranberries, and more that may help resolve mild UTIs without antibiotics.

The Prevalence and Impact of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common types of bacterial infections worldwide, affecting an estimated 150 million people each year. While anyone can develop a UTI, women are 30 times more likely to be affected than men, with approximately 40% of women experiencing a UTI at some point in their lives.

UTIs can affect any part of the urinary system, including the urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidneys, but they usually start in the lower urinary tract organs like the bladder and urethra. Common symptoms include a burning sensation during urination, frequent and intense urges to urinate, cloudy or bloody urine, fever, fatigue, and pelvic, lower abdominal, or back pain.

While UTIs can be treated with antibiotics, infection recurrence is very common. Additionally, the overuse of antibiotics can have long-term negative consequences, such as damage to the normal, healthy bacteria in the urinary tract and the potential development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Therefore, many people seek natural and alternative solutions to prevent and treat mild UTIs.

8 Herbs and Natural Supplements for UTI Prevention and Treatment

Here are 8 herbs and natural supplements that may help prevent and treat mild UTIs:

1. D-Mannose

D-mannose is a type of simple sugar that may help prevent and treat mild UTIs by inhibiting the ability of certain infectious bacteria, like E. coli, to adhere to the cells of the urinary tract, making it easier for them to be flushed out before they can cause an infection. Some studies have shown that D-mannose can be as effective as antibiotics in preventing UTI recurrence, with fewer side effects.

2. Uva Ursi (Bearberry Leaf)

Uva ursi, also known as Arctostaphylos uva ursi or bearberry leaf, is an herbal remedy that has been used for centuries to treat UTIs. The plant’s leaves contain compounds like arbutin and hydroquinone, which may have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help fight UTI-causing bacteria.

3. Cranberries

Cranberries are a well-known natural remedy for UTIs. They contain compounds called proanthocyanidins that may help prevent certain bacteria, like E. coli, from adhering to the cells of the urinary tract. Some research suggests that cranberry products, such as juice or supplements, may help reduce the risk of recurrent UTIs.

4. Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help maintain a healthy balance of microorganisms in the urinary tract. Some research indicates that certain probiotic strains, such as Lactobacillus, may help prevent and treat UTIs by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria and supporting the body’s natural defenses.

5. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that may help support the immune system and acidify the urine, creating an environment that is less favorable for harmful bacteria to thrive. Some studies suggest that taking vitamin C supplements may help reduce the risk of recurrent UTIs.

6. Garlic

Garlic possesses antimicrobial properties that may help fight UTI-causing bacteria. Additionally, garlic has anti-inflammatory effects that could help alleviate some of the discomfort associated with a UTI.

7. Horseradish

Horseradish is another herb that has been used traditionally to treat UTIs. It contains compounds like allyl isothiocyanate, which may have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help fight UTI-causing bacteria.

8. Marshmallow Root

Marshmallow root contains mucilage, a substance that can help soothe and protect the lining of the urinary tract. It may also have mild antimicrobial effects that can help fight UTI-causing bacteria.

Considerations and Precautions

While these herbs and natural supplements may be helpful for preventing and treating mild, uncomplicated UTIs, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider if you suspect you have a UTI. Severe or recurrent UTIs may require medical treatment, including antibiotics, to prevent the infection from spreading or becoming more serious.

Additionally, some of these natural remedies may interact with certain medications or have side effects, especially for people with underlying health conditions. It’s always best to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have a history of UTIs or other urinary tract issues.

Conclusion

Urinary tract infections can be a frustrating and often recurrent problem, but there are several natural and herbal options that may help prevent and treat mild UTIs. By incorporating these supplements into your self-care routine, you may be able to reduce your risk of UTI recurrence and avoid the potential long-term consequences of excessive antibiotic use.

Remember, if you experience severe or persistent UTI symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Working closely with your healthcare provider can help you find the right balance of conventional and natural approaches to manage your urinary tract health.

8 Herbs and Natural Supplements for UTIs

Certain herbs and vitamins may help prevent UTIs and resolve uncomplicated infections. But if you have severe symptoms, you may need medical attention.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common types of bacterial infections worldwide. It’s estimated that over 150 million people contract UTIs each year.

E. coli is the most common type of bacteria to cause UTIs, although occasionally other types of infectious bacteria may be implicated.

Anyone can develop a UTI, but women are 30 times more likely to be affected than men. Approximately 40% of women will experience a UTI at some point in their lives.

A UTI can affect any part of the urinary system, including the urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidneys, but it usually starts in organs of the lower urinary tract, bladder, and urethra.

Common symptoms associated with UTIs include:

• a burning sensation when you urinate
• frequent and intense urges to urinate
• cloudy, dark, or bloody urine
• fever or fatigue
• pain in your pelvis, lower abdomen, or back

UTIs can be treated with antibiotics, but infection recurrence is very common.

What’s more, the overuse of antibiotics can have long-term negative consequences, such as damage to the normal, healthy bacteria in your urinary tract, and possibly contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria.

If you suspect that you have a UTI, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider as soon as possible. What may start as a mild infection can quickly become serious and potentially fatal if left untreated for too long.

That said, some research suggests that up to 42% of mild and uncomplicated UTIs can be resolved without the use of antibiotics.

If you’re one of the many people in the world who experiences recurrent UTIs, you may be seeking natural and alternative solutions to avoid excessive exposure to antibiotic drugs.

Here are 8 herbs and natural supplements that may help prevent and treat mild UTIs.

D-mannose is a type of simple sugar that’s frequently used to prevent and treat mild UTIs.

It occurs naturally in a variety of foods, including cranberries, apples, and oranges, but is usually consumed in powder or tablet form when used as a UTI therapy.

Not much is known about how D-mannose works, but many experts believe it inhibits the ability of certain infectious bacteria to adhere to the cells of your urinary tract, making it easier for them to be flushed out before they can make you sick.

More research is needed to determine whether D-mannose can reliably treat or exert preventative effects against UTIs. However, a few small studies have delivered some promising results.

One 2016 study evaluated the effect of D-mannose on 43 women with active UTIs and a history of recurrent UTIs.

For the first 3 days, study participants took a 1.5-gram dose of D-mannose twice daily, followed by one daily 1.5-gram dose for 10 additional days. After 15 days, approximately 90% of their infections had resolved.

Although these results are encouraging, the study design was somewhat flawed due to the small sample size and lack of a control group.

A 2013 study in 308 women compared the effectiveness of a daily 2-gram dose of D-mannose and common antibiotic used to prevent UTI recurrence.

After 6 months, results revealed that D-mannose was as effective as the antibiotic at preventing UTI recurrence, and it was associated with fewer side effects.

For most people, taking D-mannose doesn’t pose any major health risks. The most frequently reported side effect is mild diarrhea.

However, because D-mannose is a type of sugar, it may not be appropriate for people who have challenges regulating their blood sugar levels.

There’s not currently enough evidence to establish an ideal dose of D-mannose, but most available research has safely tested doses of 1.5–2 grams up to 3 times daily.

summary

D-mannose is a type of naturally occurring sugar that may treat UTIs by preventing infectious bacteria from sticking to the cells in your urinary tract. Early research suggests that it may treat and prevent UTIs, but more studies are needed.

UTI Supplement Options

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

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Uva ursi — otherwise known as Arctostaphylos uva ursi or bearberry leaf — is an herbal remedy for UTIs that has been used in traditional and folk medicine practices for centuries.

It’s derived from a type of wild, flowering shrub that grows across various parts of Europe, Asia, and North America.

The plant’s berries are a favorite snack for bears — hence the nickname bearberry leaf — while its leaves are used to make herbal medicine.

After the leaves are harvested, they may be dried and steeped to make tea, or leaf extracts may be consumed in capsule or tablet form.

Modern research supporting the use of uva ursi to treat UTIs is limited, though several compounds present in the plant have exhibited potent antimicrobial capabilities in test-tube studies.

Arbutin is the main compound credited with uva ursi’s UTI-healing potential, thanks to its antibacterial effect on E. coli — one of the most common causes of UTIs.

One older study in 57 women found that supplemental use of uva ursi with dandelion root significantly reduced UTI recurrence, compared with a placebo.

However, a more recent study in over 300 women observed no difference between uva ursi and a placebo when they were used as a treatment for active UTIs.

Available research suggests uva ursi is relatively safe at daily doses of 200–840 mg of hydroquinone derivatives calculated as anhydrous arbutin.

However, its long-term safety has not been established, and it should not be taken for longer than 1–2 weeks at a time due to the potential risk of liver and kidney damage.

summary

Uva ursi is an herbal UTI remedy made from the leaves of a shrub called Arctostaphylos uva ursi. Test-tube studies have found that it has strong antimicrobial effects, but human studies have demonstrated mixed results.

Garlic is a popular herb that has been widely used in both culinary and traditional medicine practices throughout history.

It’s often used medicinally to treat a broad range of physical ailments, including fungal, viral, and bacterial infections.

Garlic’s healing potential is usually attributed to the presence of a sulfur-containing compound known as allicin.

In test-tube studies, allicin exhibits strong antibacterial effects against a variety of infectious, UTI-causing bacteria — including E. coli.

Additional evidence from individual case reports suggests that garlic may be an alternative therapy for treating UTIs in humans, but strong research to validate these results is lacking.

Ultimately, more well-designed studies are needed to better understand the role garlic may play in treating and preventing recurrent UTIs before any definitive conclusions can be drawn regarding its effectiveness or ideal dosage.

Garlic can be consumed in its whole, raw form, but supplemental doses are usually sold as extracts and consumed in capsule form.

Garlic supplements are likely safe for most people, but side effects may include heartburn, bad breath, and body odor.

Some people may experience allergic reactions to garlic supplements, and they should be avoided if you have a history of allergies to garlic or other closely related plants, such as onions or leeks.

These supplements may increase your risk of bleeding and can interact with some medications, such as blood thinners and certain HIV drugs. If you’re taking any such medications, talk to your healthcare provider prior to using garlic to treat your UTI.

summary

Garlic has been used for a variety of culinary and medicinal purposes. Test-tube studies and case reports suggest that garlic’s antibacterial effects may help treat UTIs, but more well-designed human studies are needed to validate these claims.

Cranberry products, including juices and extracts, are among the most popular choices for natural and alternative treatments for UTIs.

Cranberries contain a wide variety of chemical compounds, such as D-mannose, hippuric acid, and anthocyanins, that may play a role in limiting the ability of infectious bacteria to adhere to the urinary tract, thus hindering their growth and ability to cause infection.

Test-tube and animal studies have demonstrated that cranberry prevents UTIs, but human research has found considerably less convincing results.

A 2012 review of human studies on cranberry products’ ability to treat and prevent UTIs concluded there was insufficient evidence to determine that cranberry exerts these effects.

However, the authors of the study noted that drawing definitive conclusions was difficult, as many of the studies were poorly designed, lacked a standard dosage, and used various cranberry products.

Another 2019 review suggested that although cranberry treatment may help reduce UTI occurrence and UTI symptoms in some cases, it’s not as effective as other treatment methods, such as D-mannose and the antibiotic fosfomycin.

Cranberry juices and supplements are safe for most people, but they may cause an upset stomach. Plus, long-term use may increase your risk of developing kidney stones.

Moreover, excess consumption of calories from cranberry juice may encourage unnecessary weight gain, and large doses of cranberry supplements may interfere with certain types of blood-thinning medications.

summary

Cranberry juices and supplements are often used to treat and prevent UTIs, but studies have not found them to be particularly effective. More human studies are needed to understand the role cranberry products may play in the treatment of UTIs.

Green tea is derived from the leaves of a plant known as Camellia sinensis. It has been used for its broad pharmacological potential in a variety of traditional medicine practices for centuries.

Green tea contains a rich supply of plant compounds called polyphenols, which are well known for having strong antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.

Epigallocatechin (EGC), a compound in green tea, has demonstrated potent antibacterial effects against UTI-causing strains of E. coli in test-tube research.

Several animal studies have also found that green tea extracts containing EGC may improve the effectiveness of certain types of antibiotics frequently used to treat UTIs.

Still, human studies evaluating green tea’s ability to treat and prevent UTIs are lacking.

A single cup (240 mL) of brewed green tea contains approximately 150 mg of EGC. The current research indicates that as little as 3–5 mg of EGC may be enough to help inhibit bacterial growth in the urinary tract, but this theory hasn’t yet been proven in humans.

A moderate intake of green tea is safe for most people. However, it naturally contains caffeine, which may contribute to impaired sleep and restlessness.

Moreover, consuming caffeine while you have an active UTI may worsen your physical symptoms. Thus, you may want to opt for decaffeinated green tea products instead.

High dose green tea extract supplements have been linked to liver issues, but it’s unclear whether the supplements caused these issues.

Speak with your healthcare provider if you’re interested in taking green tea supplements and have a history of impaired liver function.

Summary

Test-tube and animal studies have demonstrated that certain compounds in green tea have potent antibacterial activity against E. coli. However, no human studies have been conducted to validate these results.

Several types of herbal teas may be used to treat and prevent UTIs, but despite their popularity, very few studies have been conducted on their use for this purpose.

6.

Parsley tea

Parsley has a mild diuretic effect, which is supposed to help flush UTI-causing bacteria out of the urinary tract.

Two case reports found that a combination of parsley tea, garlic, and cranberry extract prevented UTI recurrence in women with chronic UTIs. However, more research is needed to determine whether these results can be replicated in larger groups.

7.

Chamomile tea

Chamomile tea is used in herbal medicine practices to treat a wide range of physical ailments, including UTIs.

Like parsley, chamomile possesses a weak diuretic effect and contains plant compounds with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

These features are thought to help reduce inflammation, inhibit bacterial growth, and flush the urinary tract of infectious bacteria, but more research is needed.

8.

Mint tea

Teas made from peppermint and other types of wild mint are also sometimes used as a natural remedy for UTIs.

Some test-tube research has found that mint leaves have antibacterial effects against various UTI-causing bacteria like E. coli. Certain compounds found in mint leaves may also help reduce bacterial resistance to antibiotic medications.

However, there are currently no studies available to support the use of mint tea to fight UTIs in humans.

Summary

Some herbal teas like parsley, chamomile, or peppermint may be used to treat and prevent UTIs. Still, scientific evidence for these remedies is weak.

Herbal supplements and medicines are often assumed to be safe because they’re natural, but that’s not always the case.

Much like modern medications, herbal supplements come with their own set of potential risks and side effects.

For instance, garlic and cranberry supplements may negatively interact with certain types of prescription medications, while the long-term use of uva ursi may contribute to liver or kidney damage.

What’s more, in some countries, such as the United States, herbal and nutritional supplements are not regulated in the same manner as conventional medicine.

Supplement manufacturers are not required to prove the purity of their products. Thus, you may end up consuming improper doses or ingredients and contaminants that aren’t listed on the product label.

To ensure the supplements you’ve chosen are of the highest quality, always opt for brands that have been tested for purity by a third-party organization, such as NSF International.

Summary

Given that herbal and nutritional supplements are generally not regulated in many countries, always choose brands that have been independently tested by a third party, such as NSF International.

If you suspect that you have a UTI, consult your healthcare provider as soon as possible.

Even mild infections can quickly worsen and spread to other parts of your body, potentially leading to very serious health consequences.

Thus, attempting to diagnose and treat yourself for a UTI without the guidance of a medical professional is not recommended.

Instead, communicate openly and let your healthcare provider know if you’re interested in trying herbal alternatives instead of antibiotics. They will be able to help you create the safest, most effective treatment plan for your infection.

Summary

Even mild UTIs can quickly worsen and cause more serious complications. Thus, it’s important to seek help from a qualified healthcare professional and discuss your desire for a more natural treatment plan.

UTIs are one of the most common types of bacterial infections worldwide.

They’re often effectively treated with antibiotics, but infection recurrence is common. Plus, the excessive use of antibiotics may lead to negative health outcomes.

Many people choose natural and herbal supplements to treat their UTIs to avoid overexposure to antibiotic medications.

Although research on their effectiveness is limited, D-mannose, uva ursi, cranberry, garlic, and green tea are popular choices for natural UTI treatment and prevention. Certain herbal teas may also help.

If you suspect you’re developing a UTI, consult a qualified healthcare provider prior to beginning any herbal therapy on your own.

Prevention of urinary tract infections with vitamin D supplementation 20,000 IU per week for five years. Results from an RCT including 511 subjects

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Randomized Controlled Trial

. 2016 Nov-Dec;48(11-12):823-8.

doi: 10.1080/23744235.2016.1201853.

Epub 2016 Jun 30.

Rolf Jorde 
^1
 
2
, Stina T Sollid 
^1
 
2
, Johan Svartberg 
^1
 
2
, Ragnar M Joakimsen 
^1
 
2
, Guri Grimnes 
^1
 
2
, Moira Y S Hutchinson 
³

Affiliations

Affiliations

• ¹ a Department of Clinical Medicine , Tromsø Endocrine Research Group, UiT The Arctic University of Norway , Tromsø , Norway ;
• ² b Division of Internal Medicine , University Hospital of North Norway , Tromsø , Norway ;
• ³ c Division of Head and Motion, Department of Rheumatology , Nordland Hospital , Bodø , Norway.

• PMID:

  27357103

• DOI:

  10.1080/23744235.2016.1201853

Randomized Controlled Trial

Rolf Jorde et al.

Infect Dis (Lond).

2016 Nov-Dec.

. 2016 Nov-Dec;48(11-12):823-8.

doi: 10.1080/23744235.2016.1201853.

Epub 2016 Jun 30.

Authors

Rolf Jorde 
^1
 
2
, Stina T Sollid 
^1
 
2
, Johan Svartberg 
^1
 
2
, Ragnar M Joakimsen 
^1
 
2
, Guri Grimnes 
^1
 
2
, Moira Y S Hutchinson 
³

Affiliations

• ¹ a Department of Clinical Medicine , Tromsø Endocrine Research Group, UiT The Arctic University of Norway , Tromsø , Norway ;
• ² b Division of Internal Medicine , University Hospital of North Norway , Tromsø , Norway ;
• ³ c Division of Head and Motion, Department of Rheumatology , Nordland Hospital , Bodø , Norway.

• PMID:

  27357103

• DOI:

  10.1080/23744235.2016.1201853

Abstract

Background:

In observational studies vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased risk of infections, whereas the effect of vitamin D supplementation in randomized controlled trials is non-conclusive.

Methods:

Five hundred and eleven subjects with prediabetes were randomized to vitamin D3 (20,000 IU per week) versus placebo for five years. Every sixth month, a questionnaire on respiratory tract infections (RTI) (common cold, bronchitis, influenza) and urinary tract infection (UTI) was filled in.

Results:

Mean baseline serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) level was 60 nmol/L. Two hundred and fifty-six subjects received vitamin D and 255 placebo. One hundred and sixteen subjects in the vitamin D and 111 in the placebo group completed the five-year study. Eighteen subjects in the vitamin D group and 34 subjects in the placebo group reported UTI during the study (p < 0.02), whereas no significant differences were seen for RTI. The effect on UTI was most pronounced in males. The effect of vitamin D on UTI was unrelated to baseline serum 25(OH)D level.

Conclusion:

Supplementation with vitamin D might prevent UTI, but confirmatory studies are needed.

Keywords:

Diabetes; respiratory infection; urinary tract infection; vitamin D.

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15 Natural Ways to Improve Your Urinary Tract｜ iHerb Blog

The information in this blog has not been verified by your local health authority and is not intended as a diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice.
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Urinary tract infections, or UTIs as they are commonly called, are more common in women than in men. Almost 500,000 people are hospitalized each year due to complications from urinary tract infections in the United States. The most common complication of UTI is a bacterial infection of the blood. Over the past 12 months in the United States, a urinary tract infection has been reported in almost 11% of women. It has also been found that every second woman during her life at least once suffers from a urinary tract infection. Every year, tens of millions of cases of urinary tract infections are recorded in women worldwide.

Almost every day, at least one or two patients come to me with symptoms related to a urinary tract infection. Symptoms include a burning sensation during urination, increased frequency of urination, urge to urinate, back pain, and sometimes urinary incontinence. In patients older than 65 years, a urinary tract infection can lead to confusion and sometimes hallucinations, especially if bacteria from the urinary tract enter the bloodstream.

Who is at risk of infection?

There are many risk factors for urinary tract infections:

• Gender – women are at higher risk of developing infections than men
• Age – women aged 50 and over (after menopause)
• Pre-diabetes condition
• Diabetes mellitus – sugar is food for bacteria, and the more sugar a person consumes and excretes, the more food for bacteria to grow and live
• Immunodeficiency conditions – a strong immune system is needed to fight infection
• Kidney stones
• Sexual contact: for women who often develop urinary tract infections, emptying the bladder after intercourse is a preventive measure
• Use of certain contraceptives; in particular, the diaphragm may contribute to the development of UTI
• Using a urinary catheter
• Urological procedure or operation

Do calcium supplements increase the risk of urinary tract infection?

Data from Urological Research confirms that increased calcium intake may increase the risk of urinary tract infections. In the 2nd edition of Nutritional Medicine , Dr. Alan Gaby recommends that anyone taking up to 1500 mg of calcium per day divide the daily dose into two to three doses. Also, taking calcium with magnesium together can reduce the risk of infection, according to Dr. Gaby. Recommended dose: Calcium 500 mg once or twice a day

Urinary tract infections

Escherichia coli causes 80-90% of urinary tract infections. Most E. coli species are completely safe when they are in the gut. However, if the bacteria enters the urethra, a person may develop a urinary tract infection.

Other bacteria that cause urinary tract infections include: Klebsiella, Enterobacter, Enterococcus, Proteus, Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Serratia, and Candida yeast.

The most common drugs used to treat acute infections

• Cephalosporins and in particular cephalexin (keflex)
• Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (septra, bactrim)
• Nitrofurantoin (macrobid)
• Quinolones (ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin)

Six ways to avoid infections

1. Wear cotton underwear
2. Drink enough water every day
3. Daily consumption of cranberry juice may reduce the frequency of recurrent UTIs
4. Do not hold urine for long periods of time
5. To prevent bacteria from entering the urethra from the anus, wash from front to back, using toilet paper in the same way
6. Women should urinate after intercourse to reduce risk

Medicines for infections urinary tract

• Methenamine hippurate – its effectiveness in preventing infections was shown in a 1996 study. A 2014 study found similar results.
• Some women who are at risk of contracting a UTI after intercourse take a single dose of antibiotic that is as effective as the daily dose of antibiotics used to prevent acute urinary tract infection.
• Hormone replacement – replacing oral estrogen with vaginal use may be beneficial in postmenopausal women. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

Essential Supplements

The most commonly used nutritional supplements to help prevent urinary tract infections are cranberry, D-mannose, and vitamin C. If this is not enough, some supplements can be taken as described below.

Cranberry

Cranberry supplements, according to a 2014 study published in Clinical Infectious Disease , may help prevent urinary tract infections and are less expensive. A study published in Nutrition Research in 2013 confirmed the effectiveness of cranberry supplements in preventing recurrence of urinary tract infections in individuals at increased risk. 2014 study published in Journal of the American Geriatric Society, found that in high-risk seniors who were in long-term care facilities, such as a nursing home, taking a cranberry supplement reduced their tendency to develop urinary tract infections by 26%. Specifically, cranberry molecules help prevent E. coli bacteria from sticking to the bladder wall. Recommended dose: in accordance with the instructions.

D-Mannose

A 2014 study using a combination of D-Mannose, cranberry and probiotic lactobacilli found the combination beneficial in preventing urinary tract infections. 2017 study published in the journal In Vivo, confirmed that the combination of N-acetyl-cysteine, D-mannose and morinda (NDM) helped prevent urinary tract infection. Another 2014 study published in World Journal of Urology, showed that D-mannose significantly reduced the risk of recurrent urinary tract infections. Recommended dose: 1500 mg one to three times a day.

Vitamin C

A 1997 study in urology found that oral vitamin C can help kill bacteria in the urine. A 2007 study showed that pregnant women who took at least 100 mg of vitamin C per day were 56% less likely to develop urinary tract infections compared to women who did not take vitamin C. Recommended dose: 500-1000 mg daily or twice a day.

Auxiliary supplements

Melatonin

Melatonin is a sleep-promoting hormone secreted by the pineal gland of the brain at night. Some experience its effects by taking melatonin supplements. Taking it helps many people get a good night’s sleep, and according to a 2015 study, it can also prevent urinary tract infections. Recommended dose: 3 to 10 mg at bedtime.

Vitamin D

Studies have shown that vitamin D has antibacterial properties. With sufficient levels of vitamin D in the blood, the body produces a protein called AMP (antimicrobial peptide). AMP prevents bacterial infections and is likely effective for urinary tract infections, according to a 2017 study published in Frontiers in Microbiology . Recommended dose: 2000 IU to 5000 IU per day.

L-arginine

L-arginine is an important amino acid precursor of nitric oxide (NO). NO has been shown to have antimicrobial properties and therefore may be effective in preventing urinary tract infections. Recommended dose: 500-1000 mg once or twice a day.

Probiotics

Some studies show that the usual oral intake of probiotics can reduce the risk of recurrent urinary tract infections. A 2011 study in women using vaginal probiotic supplements showed benefits in preventing urinary tract infections. A 2013 study suggested that lactobacilli may prevent urinary tract infections. However, other studies have not confirmed these findings. A 2015 study found that there was insufficient evidence for the effectiveness of probiotics. Recommended dose: 5 billion to 100 billion units up to two times a day.

However, for anyone who is taking an antibiotic once daily for prophylaxis, or who is being treated for an acute infection with antibiotics, I recommend taking a probiotic supplement. At a minimum, it will help prevent antibiotic-induced diarrhea and yeast infections by restoring a healthy gut microflora.

Herbs

Herbs have been used for thousands of years to treat various ailments. Scientists are discovering new medicinal properties every day.

Morinda Lemonfolia

This herb has been used by practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for thousands of years. By some estimates, this plant contains over 100 active ingredients. A 2017 study found that the combination of D-mannose, N-acetyl cysteine, and morinda was effective in preventing and treating urinary tract infections in women.

Barberry

According to a 2016 study published at Microbiological Research , barberry has a bactericidal effect against such a common causative agent of urinary tract infection as Enterococcus. Recommended dose: in accordance with the instructions.

Garlic

Garlic is a vegetable known for its antibacterial properties. It is often recommended for people with recurrent urinary tract infections. According to a 1988 study, the active ingredient in garlic, which is responsible for its antibacterial properties, is allicin. Recommended dose: in accordance with the instructions.

Bear’s ears

Also known as bearberry, this herb has been approved by the German Federal Institute for Medicines and Medical Devices for the treatment of inflammatory diseases of the urinary tract and sold in Germany by prescription. Other studies have also proven its benefits. Recommended dose: in accordance with the instructions.

Other herbs with scientific evidence of effectiveness in preventing and treating urinary tract infections include goldenseal, blueberry, green tea, curcumin, rhodiola, and andrography .

Reducing the risk of urinary tract infections

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common infections that a woman develops throughout her life. Most of them are caused by bacteria E. coli . In addition to antibiotics, which are often used to treat an acute infection, there are several ways to prevent infections. Many people use the methods discussed above. Drinking enough fluids, a healthy diet, and an optimistic attitude are important for a strong immune system. Eat healthy food, think about health, be healthy.

References:

1. Ann Epidemiol. 2000 Nov;10(8):509-15
2. Urol Res. 1991;19(3):177-80.
3. Tidsskr Nor Laegeforen. 1996 Mar 10;116(7):841-3.
4. Tze Shien Lo, Kimberly DP Hammer, Milagros Zegarra & William CS Cho Expert Review of Anti-infective Therapy Vol. 12, Iss. 5.2014 Methenamine: a forgotten drug for preventing recurrent urinary tract infection in a multidrug resistance era
5. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2004;(3):CD001209.
6. Eells S. J., Bharadwa K., McKinnell J. A., Miller L. G. Recurrent urinary tract infections among women: comparative effectiveness of 5 prevention and management strategies using a markov chain monte carlo model. Clinical Infectious Diseases. 2014;58(2):147–160. doi:10.1093/cid/cit646
7. Vasileiou I, Katsargyris A, Theocharis S, Giaginis C. Current clinical status on the preventive effects of cranberry consumption against urinary tract infections. Nutr Res 2013;33:595–607.
8. Caljouw MA, van den Hout WB, Putter H, Achterberg WP, Cools HJ, Gussekloo J. Effectiveness of cranberry capsules to prevent urinary tract infections in vulnerable older persons: a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial in long-term care facilities. J Am Geriatr Soc 2014;62:103–10
9. Tao Y, Pinzón-Arango PA, Howell AB, Camesano TA. Oral Consumption of Cranberry Juice Cocktail Inhibits Molecular-Scale Adhesion of Clinical Uropathogenic Escherichia coli. Journal of Medical Food. 2011;14(7-8):739- 745. doi:10.1089/jmf.2010.0154.
10. J Clin Gastroenterol. 2014 Nov-Dec;48 Suppl 1:S96-101. doi: 10.1097/MCG.0000000000000224.
11. MARCHIORI D, PAOLO ZANELLO P. Efficacy of N-acetylcysteine, D-mannose and Morinda citrifolia to Treat Recurrent Cystitis in Breast Cancer Survivals. in vivo. 2017;31(5):931-936. doi:10.21873/invivo.11149.
12. Kranjčec B, Papeš D, Altarac S. D-mannose powder for prophylaxis of recurrent urinary tract infections in women: a randomized clinical trial. World J Urol 2014;32:79. 10.1007/s00345-013-1091-6 Urology. 1997 Aug;50(2):189-91.
13. OCHOA-BRUST, G. J., FERNÁNDEZ, A. R., VILLANUEVA-RUIZ, G. J., VELASCO, R., TRUJILLO-HERNÁNDEZ, B. and VÁSQUEZ, C. (2007), Daily intake of 100 mg ascorbic acid as urinary tract infection prophylactic agent during pregnancy. Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica, 86: 783–787. doi:10.1080/00016340701273189
14. Fathollahi A, Daneshgari F, Hanna-Mitchell AT. Melatonin and Its Role in Lower Urinary Tract Function: An Article Review. Current Urology. 2015;8(3):113-118. doi:10.1159/000365701.
15. Terlizzi ME, Gribaudo G, Maffei ME. UroPathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) Infections: Virulence Factors, Bladder Responses, Antibiotic, and Non-antibiotic Antimicrobial Strategies. Frontiers in Microbiology. 2017;8:1566. doi:10.3389/fmicb.2017.01566.
16. Foxman B, Buxton M. Alternative Approaches to Conventional Treatment of Acute Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infection in Women. current infectious disease reports. 2013;15(2):124-129. doi:10.1007/s11908-013-0317-5.
17. Evid Based Med. 2013 Aug;18(4):141-2. doi: 10.1136/eb-2012-100961. Epub 2012 Nov 2.
18. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015 Dec 23;(12):CD008772. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD008772.pub2.
19. MARCHIORI D, PAOLO ZANELLO P. Efficacy of N-acetylcysteine, D-mannose and Morinda citrifolia to Treat Recurrent Cystitis in Breast Cancer Survivals. in vivo. 2017;31(5):931-936. doi:10.21873/invivo.11149.
20. Microbiol Res. 2016 May-Jun;186-187:44-51. doi: 10.1016/j.micres.2016.03.003. Epub 2016 Mar 9.
21. Feldberg RS, Chang SC, Kotik AN, et al. In vitro mechanism of inhibition of bacterial cell growth by allicin. Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy. 1988;32(12):1763-1768.
22. Altern Med Rev. 2008 Sep;13(3):227-44. (Discusses other studies which show the benefit of Uva-Ursi for urine infections)

Ascorbic acid 1000 mg for Catheter-associated urinary tract infection – Clinical Trials Registry

June 21, 2023 updated: Tony Bazi, American University of Beirut Medical Center

Vitamin C for the prevention of catheter-associated urinary tract infections in women undergoing elective gynecological surgery: a randomized, double-blind, controlled trial

A double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial evaluating the role of vitamin C supplementation in the prevention of catheter-associated urinary tract infections in women undergoing elective gynecological surgery.

Survey Overview

Status

Not recruited yet

gov условия могут также включать другие вопросы, связанные со здоровьем, такие как продолжительность жизни, качество жизни и риски для здоровья.”> Conditions

Intervention/treatment

Detailed Description

Women undergoing elective gynecological surgery are at particularly high risk for UTIs because these surgeries involve surgery near the bladder and delayed bladder emptying is common.
It has been estimated that “the risk of urinary tract infections among women undergoing elective gynecological surgery is between 10 and 64% after catheter removal.”
Catheterization itself poses a significant risk of UTI because insertion and removal introduce bacteria and cause injury, which can increase the risk of UTI.
The incidence of UTI among women in the general population is estimated at 3-4% per year versus 5% on the day of catheterization.
For this reason, several interventions for the prevention of UTIs have been studied.
Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is often suggested as a supplement that can prevent recurrent UTIs by acidifying the urine.
There is no convincing clinical evidence to support this claim in healthy adult women.
Due to the lack of literature on the use of vitamin C as a prophylactic to prevent UTIs, researchers want to conduct this study to evaluate the potential therapeutic efficacy of ascorbic acid in preventing UTIs after elective gynecological surgery.

Study Type

Interventional

«Предполагаемый» набор — это целевое количество участников, необходимое исследователям для исследования.”>
Registration (Estimated)

180

Phase

• Phase 2

Contacts and location

This section provides contact information for individuals conducting the study and information about where the study is conducted.

В каждом месте, где проводится исследование, также может быть определенное контактное лицо, которое сможет лучше ответить на эти вопросы.”> Research contacts

• Name : Tony Bazi, M.D.
• Phone number : 9611350000
• Email : [email protected]

Educational contact backup

• Name : George kasyan, M.D.
• Email : [email protected]

Eligibility criteria

Researchers look for people who meet a certain description, called eligibility criteria. Some examples of these criteria are a person’s general health or prior medical treatment.

Типы критериев приемлемости включают в себя участие в исследовании здоровых добровольцев, требования к возрасту или возрастной группе или ограничение по полу.”> Eligibility Criteria

Age Eligible for Training

• Adult
• Elderly adult

Accepts healthy volunteers

None

Description

Inclusion criteria:

• Non-pregnant women
• 18 years and older
• Elective gynecological surgery 9 0018

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnant women
• Already taking vitamin C supplements
• Nephrolithiasis
• Congenital anomaly or neurogenic bladder
• Allergy to ascorbic acid
• On therapeutic anticoagulants within 6 weeks after surgery
• Gynecological surgery including fistula repair or removal vaginal mesh.
• Positive urinalysis in emergency department
• Recurrent UTIs
• Diabetes
• G6PD
• Hemochromatosis
• Renal disorders

Curriculum

This section provides details of the study design, including how the study is planned and what it measures.

How is the study structured?

Design details

• Main purpose of : Prevention
• Distribution : Randomized
• Intervention model : Parallel assignment
• Masking : Double

Arms and interventions

What does the study measure?

Primary Outcome Indicators

Secondary Outcome Indicators

Contributors and researchers

Here you will find the people and organizations involved in this study.

Связанные термины включают главного исследователя исследовательского центра, вспомогательного исследователя исследовательского центра, председателя исследования, руководителя исследования и главного исследователя исследования.”> Investigators

• Principal Investigator: Tony Bazi, M.D., American University of Beirut Medical Center

Publications and useful links

The person responsible for entering information about the study voluntarily provides these publications. It could be anything research related.

General publications

• Foxman B, Cronenwett AE, Spino C, Berger MB, Morgan DM. Cranberry juice capsules and urinary tract infection after surgery: results of a randomized trial. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2015 Aug;213(2):194.e1-8. doi: 10.1016/j.ajog.2015.04.003. Epub 2015 Apr 13.
• Ochoa-Brust GJ, Fernandez AR, Villanueva-Ruiz GJ, Velasco R, Trujillo-Hernandez B, Vasquez C. Daily intake of 100 mg ascorbic acid as urinary tract infection prophylactic agent during pregnancy. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 2007;86(7):783-7. doi:10.1080/00016340701273189.
• Carlsson S, Wiklund NP, Engstrand L, Weitzberg E, Lundberg JO. Effects of pH, nitrite, and ascorbic acid on nonenzymatic nitric oxide generation and bacterial growth in urine. Nitric oxide. 2001 Dec;5(6):580-6. doi: 10.1006/niox.2001.0371.
• Trautner BW, Darouiche R.O. Catheter-associated infections: pathogenesis affects prevention. Arch Intern Med. 2004 Apr 26;164(8):842-50. doi: 10.1001/archinte.164.8.842.
• Barbosa-Cesnik C, Brown MB, Buxton M, Zhang L, DeBusscher J, Foxman B. Cranberry juice fails to prevent recurrent urinary tract infection: results from a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Clin Infect Dis. 2011 Jan 1;52(1):23-30. doi: 10.1093/cid/ciq073.
• Hickling DR, Nitti VW. Management of recurrent urinary tract infections in healthy adult women. Rev Urol. 2013;15(2):41-8.
• Wald HL, Ma A, Bratzler DW, Kramer AM. Indwelling urinary catheter use in the postoperative period: analysis of the national surgical infection prevention project data. Arch Surg. 2008 Jun;143(6):551-7. doi: 10.1001/archsurg.143.6.551.

Study recording dates

These dates track the progress of submitting study reports and summary results to ClinicalTrials.gov. Research records and reported results are reviewed by the National Library of Medicine (NLM) to ensure they meet certain quality control standards before they are released to the public website.

Study of key dates

Study Start (Estimated)

June 15, 2023

Для клинических исследований с более чем одним показателем первичного исхода с разными датами завершения этот термин относится к дате завершения сбора данных для всех показателей первичного исхода. «Предполагаемая» дата завершения первичного исследования — это дата, которая, по мнению исследователей, будет датой завершения первичного исследования.”>
Primary Completion (Estimated)

August 15, 2025

Study Completion (Estimated)

August 15, 2025

Study Registration Dates

gov. Обычно существует задержка в несколько дней между датой первой отправки и доступностью записи на ClinicalTrials.gov (дата первой публикации).”> First Submitted

June 10, 2023

First Submitted That Meets Quality Control Criteria

June 21 2023

Обычно существует задержка в несколько дней между датой подачи спонсором исследования или исследователем записи об исследовании и датой первой публикации.”>
First published (Valid)

June 22, 2023

Educational updates

Last published update (Valid)

June 22, 2023

Last submitted update that meets quality control criteria

June 21, 2023

gov как точную и актуальную. Если исследование с набором статуса набора; еще не вербовка; или активен, набор не был подтвержден в течение последних 2 лет, статус набора в исследование показан как неизвестный.”> Last reviewed

June 1, 2023

Additional information

Terms associated with this study

Keywords

Additional relevant terms MeSH

Other study identification numbers

• 62/137-H/77-2023-25-2295

Planning Individual Participant Data (IPD)

Planning to share Individual Participant Data (IPD)?

NO

Drug and device information, research papers

Investigating a drug product regulated by the US FDA.