Urinary tract infection (UTI) is so common among women, that one out of two are most likely to get it once or repeatedly. This condition is usually caused by certain bacteria which, when left untreated, can work upwards and hit your kidneys. Initial symptoms include an uncomfortable burning sensation when you pee, intense urges to go even when you’ve already gone several times and nothing is coming out, fever, abdominal pain, and unusual-smelling urine.
One way to help prevent UTI is by staying hydrated. “Water helps flush out bacteria that saves your bladder from infections, so keep yourself hydrated throughout the day…whether or not you are thirsty,” explains dietitian-nutritionist of Old Orchard Cranberry Juice Cheshire Que.
Another option is to regularly drink cranberry juice, which has been known to have properties that keep bacteria at bay. “Cranberries contain phytochemicals and antioxidants that help prevent UTI,” says Cheshire. “Its bioactive compounds called proanthocynidins flush out bacteria, specifically E. Coli.”
While cranberries have been a long-time supplement for those with UTI, it’s also important to highlight that it is not a cure. Many experts are still at odds about the extent of the effect that cranberries in its purest form have on the condition, but on the other hand, several studies such as one published by the American Journal of Nutrition featured on NHS have shown that regularly drinking cranberry juice for six months “reduced the number of symptomatic urine infections among healthy women.”
Cranberry juice is a great supplement, and regularly consuming it (as long as it has low sugar content) is actually a good way of flushing out toxins and staying hydrated. However, should you suspect that you have UTI, it's still best that you head to your doctor and ask which medication is best suited for you.
Sources: Philippine-USA registered dietitian-nutritionist Cheshire Que, RDN, WebMD, The New York Times, American Journal of Nutrition, NHS
