Cloudy Urine & Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a home remedy wonder drug. At least, that is what the response would likely be if you were to ask a natural health expert such as Earl Mindell, M.D., author of "Dr. Earl Mindell's Amazing Apple Cider Vinegar." Even so, before you start drinking vinegar to treat a condition such as cloudy urine, you first need to understand the cause and then seek out the appropriate treatment plan. If you have blood in the urine, see a doctor immediately.

Cloudy Urine Causes

According to MedlinePlus, several conditions could potentially cause cloudy urine, including cystitis, bladder stones, an enlarged prostate or kidney infection. However, the most common cause is a urinary tract infection. These infections begin when bacteria -- usually E. coli -- enters the urethra and proliferates in the urinary tract. Typical symptoms include cloudy urine along with painful urination and increased urinary frequency.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a healthy ingredient used in cooking, but it may also serve as a home remedy for cloudy urine. According to the Vinegar Institute, apple cider vinegar contains many nutrients, such as potassium, calcium, and iron, along with substances, such as acetic acid and pectin, that can improve your health. Acetic acid is usually the substance considered to have infection-fighting properties.

Prevention

According to Mindell, apple cider vinegar can be used as a preventative measure for urinary tract infections and cloudy urine. In fact, Mindell claims drinking apple cider vinegar diluted in water daily will ensure the urine remains acidic, which fights off bacteria and prevents it from growing.

Not an Infection Treatment

If you believe you have a urinary tract infection and are currently experiencing cloudy urine, you shouldn't use apple cider vinegar as a replacement for treatment. The only treatment for a urinary tract infection is antibiotics, according to MedlinePlus, so it is best to see a doctor as soon as you develop symptoms. If left untreated, UTIs can spread to the kidneys.