UTIs are caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. When eliminated quickly, most UTIs do not cause lasting damage. But if not addressed, they can lead to recurring infections, permanent kidney damage, urethral narrowing in men, and a potentially life-threatening infection called sepsis. The main point to take away from this paragraph: address any UTI at the first sign of infection.
Here are a few natural items you can use to address UTIs:
D-Mannose: this is a sugar from cranberry juice that, when consumed, passes through the kidneys and flows through the bladder and urinary tract, and it flushes out bacteria that promote UTIs, such as E. coli. D-Mannose also adheres/sticks to to bladder epithelium, which interferes with the ability of E. coli to adhere and cause infection. Store-bought cranberry juice is usually full of added processed sugar. Be sure to purchase pure cranberry juice (no added sugar and not from concentrate) or a supplement form of D-mannose.
Uva Ursi: this is an herb that has antiseptic, antibacterial, astringent, and diuretic properties. It is especially active against E. coli and has been used in recurrent bladder infections.
Acidifying the urine: this does not mean that it is okay to regularly have an acidic diet. America’s standard diet is already very acidic and promotes chronic illness. Instead, you can supplement with Vitamin C (aka Ascorbic acid).
If you are needing more assistance with UTIs, schedule a consultation HERE!
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