1. What Causes Urinary Tract Infections
A urinary tract infection, commonly known as a UTI, occurs when bacteria builds up anywhere in the urinary tract and causes an infection. Bacteria in the urethra and vaginal area is usually removed by the body, but some people's bodies are extra sensitive to bacteria and prone to infection. UTIs cause inflammation, burning sensation, increased urgency and the frequent need to urinate. If untreated, infection can progress upward through the urinary tract and cause kidney infections and further complications.
2. Avoid UTIs With Good Hygiene
You can lower your risk of a urinary tract infection by simply practicing good hygiene. Shower daily and always clean your vaginal area, especially after sex. Women should wipe themselves from front to back after urinating to avoid transferring bacteria to the vaginal area. Some doctors also believe that thong underwear traps bacteria and irritates the area so opt for cotton underwear with a little more coverage if you're prone to urinary tract infections.
3. Cranberries Aren't A Cure
Cranberries and cranberry juice is believed to cure urinary tract infections, but this isn't true. In reality, cranberries are not a cure, but they can help prevent urinary tract infections from occurring. If you're prone to UTIs and recognize the beginning symptoms, you can drink a lot of cranberry juice to help stop it before it starts. Cranberry juice is highly acidic and contains large amounts of vitamin C so it helps kill the bacteria in your urinary tract. Buy natural cranberry juice that is not a "cocktail" or made from concentrate. Concentrated juices usually contain less than 40 percent cranberry juice, so they will be less beneficial.
4. Vitamin C Keeps You Healthy
In addition to boosting your immune system, vitamin C can also help prevent urinary tract infections. The vitamin helps kill bacteria before it has a chance to build up in your urinary tract and cause infection. If you're prone to UTIs, drink a glass of orange juice every day or take a vitamin C tablet every day to make sure you get a daily dose. Regular vitamin C will help keep the bacteria level in your urinary tract at a healthy level.
5. Drink Up
Drink lots of water to help get over a urinary tract infection quickly. It might be the last thing you want to do when experiencing the unpleasant urgency and burning, but keeping yourself hydrated will ultimately kick the infection out faster. Drinking water regularly will help flush the bacteria from your body, so drink up and get better fast.
