What is a (Urinary Tract Infection) UTI and why do we get them?

UTI (Urinary Tract Infections), are usually caused by bacteria, such as E. coli, which can enter the urinary tract through the urethra and multiply in the bladder.

Typically, urinary tract infections can affect any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. They are more common in women than in men.

What are the risks associated with getting a UTI?

UTIs can occur for a variety of reasons, including poor hygiene, sexual activity, certain forms of birth control, menopause, and underlying medical conditions that affect the urinary tract. Pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems are also at a higher risk of developing UTIs[i].

What are the typical symptoms of a UTI?

UTIs can cause inflammation and irritation of the urinary tract, leading to symptoms such as a strong, persistent urge to urinate, a burning sensation during urination, passing frequent, small amounts of urine, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and pelvic pain in women.

When to seek urgent medical attention for a UTI

If you suspect that you have a UTI, it is important to seek medical attention promptly, particularly if you experience symptoms such as fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, or lower back pain. These may indicate that the infection has spread to the kidneys, which can be a serious condition.

Lifestyle and UTIs

To prevent UTIs, it is important to maintain good hygiene, drink plenty of fluids, and make sure to urinate frequently, when you need to[ii].

Diet and UTIs

Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water and other fluids helps to flush bacteria out of the urinary tract[iii].

Avoid irritants: Certain foods and drinks, such as caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and acidic foods, can irritate the bladder and increase the risk of UTIs[iv].

Probiotics: Foods such as yogurt, kefir, and kimchi are good sources of probiotics. Probiotics are microorganisms that provide health benefits when consumed, as they can aid in maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria in both the gut and urinary tract[v].

Antioxidants: Antioxidants are compounds found in many foods that can help protect the body from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals. For example, antioxidants can help boost the immune system, which plays an important role in fighting off infections, including UTIs. Some specific antioxidants that may be particularly beneficial for UTI prevention include vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene[vi].

Supplement suggestions for UTIs

Cranberry:

Cranberries contain compounds called proanthocyanidins, which are thought to help prevent bacteria from adhering to the bladder walls. By preventing bacteria from attaching to the bladder walls, cranberries may reduce the risk of infection.

Studies such as one performed on 373 premenopausal women found that daily consumption of cranberry juice reduced the incidence of symptomatic UTIs by approximately 50% compared to placebo[vii].

Also try:

Pure Encapsulations Cranberry/ d-Mannose (90 caps)

Natures Answer UT Answer (120ml)

Viridian Cranberry Berry

Viridian Cranberry Mannose pH (50g)

Vitamin C:

Vitamin C can help increase the acidity of urine, making it less hospitable to bacteria[viii].

Try: Pukka Natural Vitamin C (60 caps).

Uva Ursi:

Uva ursi, also known as bearberry, is a plant that has been traditionally used for the treatment of urinary tract infections (UTIs). The leaves of the plant contain compounds called hydroquinone glycosides. These plant compounds have antibacterial properties and may help to reduce inflammation and pain in the urinary tract[ix].

Try: The Organic Pharmacy Uva Ursi Complex Tincture 50ml

Probiotics:

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help promote a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut and urinary tract[x].

Try: Viridian Synerbio Daily Probiotic

Allicin:

Allicin is am anti-microbial component of garlic, it has been seen in studies to be effective against e-coli infections, which are the main type of bacteria known to cause UTI’s[xi].

Try: Allicin Max

Angelica Leaf:

This plant contains several compounds, including coumarins and essential oils, that have been shown to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties[xii]. Please consult with your doctor prior to use due to the potential for angelica leaf to interact with medications and cause adverse effects in certain populations, such as pregnant women.

Try: Angelica Leaf Extract - Icelandic, Organic (30 caps)

Testing options for persistent UTIs

Functional microbiome testing may have potential for identifying the specific bacteria causing a UTI and guiding personalized treatment plans, particularly for recurrent UTIs and cases that do not respond to standard treatments[xiii].

Complete GastroIntestinal and Microbiome Test