Yes, Cranberry Juice Really Helps Your Urinary Tract And 9 Other Ways To Improve Your Urinary Health
Although cranberry juice is a remedy for preventing infection, it may not be the most effective solution once the infection has already spread. If you choose to drink cranberry juice, make sure it is unsweetened and without any additives. If you can't stand the taste of cranberry juice, there are more ways to help prevent your urinary tract infection and improve urinary health.
Baking Soda
Baking soda helps regulate the body's pH by neutralizing stomach acid and relieving heartburn, indigestion, and even ulcer pain. Drinking one teaspoon of baking soda and mixed into a glass of water to help ease the pain that comes with a urinary tract infection.
Blueberries
Similar to cranberries, blueberries contain antioxidants that free your body of infection and keep it healthy. To get a higher dose, you can drink 100 percent blueberry juice when you start to experience the symptoms of a UTI, and soon after, your symptoms should start to decrease.
Coffee
As long as you avoid added sugar and heavy cream, a nice cup of black coffee could actually help prevent your next urinary tract infection. Coffee contains polyphenols, which prevent diseases and infections, according to The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
Garlic
Garlic and onions promote antimicrobial activity, which means they can help kill bacteria and prevent it from spreading throughout the body. Include these foods in your diet by sautéing them with your favorite vegetables or putting minced garlic in your homemade dressing.
Oranges
Pineapple
Pineapple is full of bromelain, which is a mixture of enzymes that decrease the inflammation that results from infection. Bromelain has also shown to kill bacteria, thus helping to cure urinary tract infections.
Uva Ursi
Herbs such as uva ursi have an anti-inflammatory effect and can help prevent urinary tract infections. Note, though, that the herb only works in non-acidic urine, so avoid acid foods such as grapefruit while taking it.
Yogurt
Yogurt, which contains probiotics, can increase the good bacteria in your body and lower the amount of the bad bacteria. Other foods, such as kimchi and the tea drink kombucha, also contain probiotics. Studies have found that probiotics can be used to fight vaginal infections.
Water
Water is important for flushing out bacteria and that is also one of the most beneficial things to do when you have a urinary tract infection. It is important to stay hydrated throughout the day to keep you from feeling sluggish or overeating.