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.

UTI Treatment: What to Know About Supplements and Prevention

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More than half of American women will have a urinary tract infection during their lives. But can supplements really stave that off?

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Sept. 26, 2022

In glossy photos on Instagram, a manicured hand pours powder into a liquid that turns pink, gleaming in the sun. Crushed amber specks shimmer under stubby capsules beside the caption: “Two pills a day can help keep the U.T.I.s away!” A cartoon heart twinkles alongside boxes of pills and powders — with “U. T.I.S SUCK, YOU DON’T,” scrawled at the center.

Drinking cranberry juice has long been the prevention strategy du jour. Now, women looking to ward off urinary tract infections can sip pink lemonade and berry-flavored concoctions, or pour pills out of pastel bottles.

Over the last 10 years, a proliferation of products with cutesy names and slick branding marketed to women — U.T.I. Don’t Think So, Happy V, VeeTract, Uqora — have dangled the potential of a future without U.T.I.s (though they are careful to caveat that their products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent diseases). But gynecologists and urinary health experts aren’t sure whether supplements can protect against these infections.

“It could be that you’re just making expensive pee,” said Dr. Erin Higgins, an OB-GYN at Cleveland Clinic.

Bacterial cystitis, the most common type of U.T.I., occurs when bacteria like E. coli travel from the rectum, genital area, or vagina, settle in the urethra and enter the bladder, where they multiply. This can cause abdominal cramping and burning, bloody, frequent urination.

Most U.T.I.s are uncomfortable, but largely innocuous, said Dr. Benjamin Brucker, a urologist and urogynecologist at N.Y.U. Langone Health. In rare cases, however, a U.T.I. can infect the kidneys, leading to fever, chills, lower back pain and vomiting.

Anyone can develop a U.T.I., though women have shorter urethras, making it easier for bacteria to reach the urinary tract and then spread to the bladder. Over half of adult women will get at least one at some point in their lives, and roughly 25 percent will get recurrent urinary tract infections, which usually means three or more cases within a year.

Doctors typically recommend prescription antibiotics to treat U.T.I.s, although in recent years scientists and physicians have raised concerns about infections becoming drug-resistant. Antibiotics remain the leading way to treat U.T.I.s, but concerns may lead patients to seek alternatives for treatment and prevention, said Dr. Stacy Lenger, a urogynecologist at UofL Health and the University of Louisville School of Medicine.

The Food and Drug Administration does not closely regulate supplements, which means there is limited data on whether they are effective. And, without results from large-scale clinical trials, it’s unclear whether U.T.I. pills and powders actually prevent infection. (Uqora started a clinical trial for its U.T.I. supplement, but canceled the study in March 2020 because of the pandemic, a representative from the company said. The company has plans to reinstate the study.)

Still, there is some evidence that the individual ingredients in these supplements may provide a slight benefit, especially for people with frequent U.T.I.s — and they’re unlikely to have significant side effects, said Dr. Monica Woll Rosen, an OB-GYN at University of Michigan Medical School.

Cranberry, the most common ingredient in U.T.I. supplements, has long been touted as an at-home elixir to ward off the infection. There’s encouraging, but scant, data to support this: A 2017 meta-analysis found that cranberry reduced the risk of developing a U.T.I. by 26 percent in otherwise healthy women with a history of urinary infections, but the studies had small numbers of participants.

The American Urogynecologic Society issued a Best Practice Statement for recurrent urinary tract infection in adult women that states “the preponderance of evidence does not support routine use of cranberry products in the care of women with” recurrent U.T.I.s.

In 2020, the F.D.A. concluded that there is “limited credible scientific evidence” to suggest that certain cranberry supplements and beverages would lower the risk of recurrent U.T.I.s.

Many U.T.I. supplements also contain d-mannose, a simple sugar related to glucose. A review of previous studies on the chemical found that it may provide protection against recurring U.T.I.s. “Overall, d-mannose appears to be effective when compared to a placebo,” said Dr. Lenger, the lead author of the review. “But that’s taken with the caveat that this is a small amount of data.” In large doses, d-mannose may cause gastrointestinal side effects, like diarrhea and flatulence, she added, but overall, most people tolerate it well.

Vitamins, especially vitamin C, are also present in many of the supplements that claim to protect against urinary tract infections. Some doctors think that vitamin C can combat bacterial growth, in combination with other supplements, by theoretically acidifying the urine, said Dr. Jerry Lowder, a urogynecologist at Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine.

“With any therapy, you’ve got to think: What’s the risk, what’s the benefit?” Dr. Brucker said. “If there’s a low risk, and there’s some data that says it might work, it might be reasonable for a doctor to say, let’s consider these remedies.”

However, because these products are not subject to rigorous oversight, supplement ingredients can vary in quantity or quality. And without the guidance of a medical professional, a patient may inadvertently take a supplement that interacts with their current medication. “The big problem with any of these things is quality control,” Dr. Brucker said.

Doctors aren’t completely certain why some people experience recurring U.T.I.s and others never have them. Those who frequently contract U.T.I.s are often prescribed low-dose daily antibiotics. For the general population, though, there are simple steps to help protect against these infections.

Basic hygiene is essential: Women should always wipe from front to back after using the toilet, to ensure bacteria from the rectum does not travel near the urethra. For both men and women, it is important to stay hydrated, and to urinate throughout the day — don’t try to hold it for uncomfortably long stretches, Dr. Higgins said.

During perimenopause and menopause, women may be at higher risk for U.T.I.s as estrogen levels decrease. Topical vaginal estrogen is the “gold standard” non-antibiotic treatment to prevent recurrent U. T.I.s in this population, Dr. Lowder said.

And, true to conventional wisdom, urinating after sex can reduce the risk of developing a U.T.I. by flushing bacteria out of the vagina, Dr. Rosen said, although evidence backing up the effectiveness of that habit is thin.

“There’s really no data for it,” Dr. Brucker said.

Doctors cautioned against assuming all vaginal irritation or pain is a U.T.I. Common U.T.I. symptoms can also indicate bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, sexually transmitted infections, urinary incontinence and even bladder cancers. If a patient experiences the symptoms of a U.T.I., and especially if blood is present in their urine, they should seek a medical professional. If you don’t have a primary care doctor, urgent care centers can also diagnose U.T.I.s, Dr. Higgins said.

If you assume you have a U.T.I. and reach for a supplement to treat or prevent the infection, “there’s harm in not making sure you have a right diagnosis,” Dr. Brucker said. “A simple exam can assess for these things. A cranberry supplement can’t.”

A version of this article appears in print on  , Section D, Page 7 of the New York edition with the headline: Pills and Powders Aim To Ward Off U.T.I.s. Order Reprints | Today’s Paper | Subscribe

15 Natural Ways to Improve Your Urinary Tract｜ iHerb Blog

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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.

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Lecture on the prevention of kidney disease

March 9, 2021

Lecture on the prevention of kidney disease

Diseases of the urinary system is a common problem in women and men at any age. They are accompanied by unpleasant symptoms: pain or burning when urinating, frequent urination and leakage of urine, fever and a general deterioration in well-being. Many diseases of the genitourinary organs can be prevented by simple preventive measures.

Content

• Tip 1. Drink plenty of water
• Tip 2: Take Vitamin C
• Tip 3: Avoid Bladder Irritating Foods
• Tip 4. Use herbal remedies to prevent chronic urinary tract diseases
• Tip 5. Move on to healthy daily habits
• Tip 6: Cut down on meat and poultry
• Tip 7. Eat fruits, vegetables and grains
• Tip 8: Don’t drink apple cider vinegar if you have a UTI
• Tip 9. If you notice symptoms of urinary infections, consult a urologist

Tip 1. Drink plenty of water

Both men and women with chronic and recurrent diseases of the kidneys and urinary system are recommended to drink more than two liters of water daily.

Water helps to get rid of bacteria, with frequent urination, they are simply washed away, and prevent urolithiasis. In concentrated urine, the chemicals it contains crystallize. Dilution of urine prevents the deposition of salts and the formation of stones and sand.

Tip 2: Take Vitamin C

The use of foods high in vitamin C is necessary not only for the prevention of SARS and strengthening the immune system, but also for the health of the urinary system. A large amount of ascorbic acid in the diet makes urine more acidic and blocks the growth of bacteria in the urinary tract.

But this advice is suitable for healthy people. In the acute period of the disease, it is better to avoid citrus or other products containing acid, as they have an irritant effect on the bladder and increase pain during urination.

Tip 3: Avoid Bladder Irritating Foods

With frequent infections of the urinary system, the use of caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, spices, nicotine, carbonated drinks and artificial sweeteners is prohibited. They irritate the bladder, increase the symptoms of dysuria, and make recovery difficult.

Raw onions, pineapples, strawberries and tomatoes also irritate the bladder mucosa.

Tip 4. Use herbal remedies to prevent chronic urinary tract diseases

Medicinal herbs and urological preparations are widely used both for prevention and in the complex auxiliary therapy of inflammatory urological diseases. But any herbs or dietary supplements can only be used as prescribed by a urologist, since many herbal remedies have not been conducted large randomized controlled trials. Such studies are the gold standard when it comes to proving the effectiveness of a drug or treatment in medicine. Without proven results, the remedy cannot be considered medicinal.

Use herbal remedies to prevent chronic urinary tract diseases

• Leaves of bearberry (uva ursi). Used as a herbal remedy for lower urinary tract infections. Bearberry should only be taken for short periods of time (5-7 days or less) as bearberry is bad for the liver.
• Cranberry. Cranberry juice has long been used as a home remedy for UTIs, but not everyone knows why and in what form this berry should be consumed. The proanthocyanidins found in cranberries help prevent bladder infections by keeping bacteria from sticking to the lining of the bladder and urinary tract. Be sure to choose unsweetened cranberry juice, as the sugar in sweetened cranberry juices can actually feed the bacteria. If the juice seems sour, it’s best to mix it with sparkling water or plain yogurt.
• D-mannose. According to research published in the European Review of Medical and Pharmacological Sciences (2016), foods containing D-mannose help prevent and treat UTIs. D-Mannose is a simple sugar found naturally in fruits, including oranges, apples, and cranberries.

Dietary supplements for the prevention of urinary tract diseases include:

• Monurel Previcist. Cranberry extract + vitamin C. Take 1 tablet 1 time per day. Reduces the risk of developing exacerbations of inflammatory processes of the urinary tract.
• Uroprofit. As part of dietary supplements: extracts of bearberry, cranberry, horsetail and ascorbic acid. Normalizes urination, reduces the risk of developing urolithiasis, exacerbation of cystitis, pyelonephritis and renal edema. Take 2 capsules 1 time per day. Contraindicated in children and pregnant women.
• Uronorm. Cranberry extract + vitamin C. Increases the body’s resistance to UTIs. It is recommended to take a course of 1 tablet with meals for a month.

To be sure of the need and benefit of using dietary supplements, herbs, and over-the-counter drugs for the prevention of urinary tract diseases, consult a urologist before using them. Uncontrolled intake of dietary supplements and herbs can cause side effects. Substances can interact with each other and with drugs, causing adverse, sometimes very serious effects.

Tip 5. Change into healthy daily habits

• Stop smoking and drinking alcohol, including soft drinks.
• Wear loose cotton clothing and underwear.
• Wipe dry after a bath or shower.
• Choose only hypoallergenic personal care products.

Lifestyle changes help to quickly get rid of infectious diseases of the urinary system and prevent its recurrence.

Tip 6: Cut down on meat and poultry

How much meat and poultry can be eaten with urinary tract infections is a moot point.

For example, in the journal mBio (August 2018), an article was published according to which meat infected with E. coli causes urinary tract infections. But these assumptions turned out to be false. Studies have shown that there is no relationship between meat intake and diseases of the urogenital area.

In fact, some strains of E. coli normally live in the gut without causing any health problems. The development of the inflammatory process leads to the penetration of bacteria from the intestine into the urinary tract. Up to 95% of cases of bladder inflammation are caused by E. coli. It has been proven that the risk of infection is higher in women than in men, because women have a shorter urethra close to the vagina and rectum than men. This means that bacteria can easily and quickly colonize the urinary tract and bladder, where they cause an inflammatory process.

According to another study by Buddhists in Taiwan (published January 2020 in Science Reports), vegetarians have a 16% lower risk of UTIs compared to non-vegetarians. According to the scientists involved in the study, reducing meat consumption may reduce the risk of UTIs.

Tip 7. Eat fruits, vegetables and grains

Healthy foods high in fiber and carbohydrates from cereals and cereals, oatmeal, lentils, beans, bran are necessary to maintain the health of not only the digestive system, but also the urinary system. Women are especially advised to consume legumes containing phytoestrogens, the natural hormones of women’s health, as they are more prone to frequent acute and chronic infectious diseases of the genitourinary organs compared to men.

Eat fruits, vegetables and grains

Fruits and vegetables are good for urinary tract health. For example, pears, green beans, squash, and potatoes are mildly diuretic and protective. Bananas reduce bladder irritation.

But it is important to understand that in the presence of an infection, the use of any products without antimicrobial drugs will never lead to recovery.

Tip 8: Don’t drink apple cider vinegar if you have a UTI

The fact is that apple cider vinegar has some antibacterial and antifungal properties. But it’s not a cure! There is no scientific or medical evidence that drinking apple cider vinegar cures UTIs.

Moreover, when using vinegar, special care must be taken.