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Six Tips to Prevent Urinary Tract Infections
Paula Gallagher on
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are a common ailment affecting millions of people worldwide each year. While they can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful, understanding the causes, symptoms, and prevention measures can help in managing and preventing these infections effectively.
Causes and Symptoms:
UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract and multiply, resulting in an infection. The most common bacteria responsible for UTIs is Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is normally found in the digestive system. UTIs can affect different parts of the urinary tract, including the bladder (cystitis), urethra (urethritis), and kidneys (pyelonephritis).
Common symptoms of UTIs include:
- Strong, persistent urge to urinate
- Burning sensation during urination
- Frequent urination in small amounts
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- Pelvic pain (in women) or rectal pain (in men)
If left untreated, UTIs can lead to more severe complications, such as kidney infections or sepsis, so it's essential to seek medical attention if you suspect you have a UTI.
Prevention Tips:
While UTIs can be recurrent and frustrating, several lifestyle changes and preventive measures can help reduce the risk of developing these infections.
Here are six tips to help prevent bladder infections:
Tip #1 – Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps flush bacteria out of the urinary tract, reducing the risk of infection. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and increase your fluid intake if you're prone to UTIs or if you're in a hot climate or engaging in vigorous physical activity.
Tip #2 – Practice Good Hygiene: Maintaining good hygiene habits can help prevent the spread of bacteria to the urinary tract. Remember to wipe from front to back after using the toilet, as wiping from back to front can introduce bacteria from the rectal area to the urethra. Additionally, avoid using harsh soaps or feminine hygiene products that may irritate the genital area.
Tip #3 – Urinate Frequently: Don't hold urine for prolonged periods, as this can increase the risk of bacterial growth in the urinary tract. Urinate as soon as you feel the urge, and empty your bladder completely each time you urinate.
Tip #4 – Wear Breathable Clothing: Tight-fitting clothing, especially synthetic materials like nylon or spandex, can trap moisture and heat around the genital area, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. Opt for breathable cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothing to keep the genital area dry and reduce the risk of UTIs.
Tip #5 – Practice Safe Sex: Sexual activity can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract, increasing the risk of UTIs. Always practice safe sex by using condoms, and urinate before and after sexual intercourse to help flush out bacteria from the urethra.
Tip #6 – Supplement: Certain supplements can support urinary tract health and help reduce the likelihood of UTIs. Consider incorporating these into your routine:
- Cranberry Extract: Cranberries contain compounds called proanthocyanidins, which may prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract walls, reducing the risk of infection. Look for cranberry supplements standardized to contain at least 36 mg of proanthocyanidins per dose.
- D-Mannose: D-Mannose is a type of sugar that may help prevent UTIs by preventing bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract lining. It's available in powder or capsule form, and a typical dose is 500 mg to 2 grams daily.
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Probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help maintain a healthy balance of microorganisms in the gut and urinary tract. Look for probiotic supplements containing strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus reuteri, which have been studied for their potential to prevent UTIs.
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PATHWAY
Cranberry Concentrate
1 review
$29.24
$44.99
Supports Bladder Health Cranberry fruit supports urinary tract health by preventing the adhesion of harmful bacteria in the bladder. Pathway Cranberry is concentrated to provide the equivalent of 34 pounds of whole cranberries in each pound of cranberry powder. The cranberry powder consist of 100% cranberry fruit solids and contains a perfect balance of naturally occurring organic acids in their synergistic ratios, and contains no sugar. Suggested Use:1 capsule with 8 ounces of water 3 times daily
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PURE ENCAPSULATIONS
D-MANNOSE
No reviews
$101.99
$101.99
Supports healthy urinary function
Ingredients are naturally found in cranberries and pineapples
Convenient powder formula for easy dispensing
Made with hypoallergenic, vegan ingredients
d-Mannose is a simple sugar found naturally in cranberries and pineapples, which can now be consumed from an easily dissolvable powdered form to help support a healthy urinary tract.D-Mannose is a simple sugar found naturally in cranberries and pineapples. It is metabolized in small amounts, the remainder of which is excreted via the urine. As it is flushed out of the body, D-mannose maintains a healthy environment for the mucosal surface of the urinary tract.
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PATHWAY
Suprema Dophilus
1 review
$34.44
$52.99
5 Billion Viable Cells Per Capsule Suprema Dophilis is an advanced combination of eight strains of beneficial bacteria to give you a complete probiotic formula. The bacteria in Suprema Dophilus are bioenhanced, acid-resistant strains that are formulated to survive stomach acid without the need for an enteric coating. Suprema Dophilus is also shelf stable, so there is no need for refrigeration. Suggested Use: 1 capsule daily with a meal
Urinary tract infections are a common health issue that can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful; however, they are also largely preventable. By adopting simple lifestyle changes and practicing good hygiene habits, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing UTIs and enjoy better urinary tract health. If you experience recurrent UTIs or severe symptoms, consult your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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