Urinary tract infections or UTIs are bacterial, fungal, or viral infections that affect the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. Escherichia and Staphylococcus are the most common bacteria, accounting for 80% of all UTIs. Symptoms are related to urination – either abnormal color, smell, or frequency. While antibiotics can treat UTIs and long-term doses prevent a recurrence, many home remedies and alternative treatments are available for UTIs.

1. Drink fluids
Hydration and urinary tract infections are undoubtedly linked. Researchers suggest adults drink at least eight glasses of water, and children 5-7 glasses of water in a day. Regular urination flushes the bacteria from the urinary tract, preventing UTIs. Low fluid intake and infrequent urination are both linked to recurrent urinary tract infections. Remember to stay hydrated and meet fluid needs as and when you feel thirsty.

2. Probiotics
While people think probiotics are beneficial for digestion, their contribution to urinary health slips the mind. There are naturally occurring microbes in the vagina, just like the biome in the intestine. Probiotics are beneficial to promote balance in the vaginal biome. Foods like kimchi, kombucha, and yogurt are full of probiotics. Many studies indicate the positive effects of Lactobacillus to prevent UTIs. Hence, in combination with antibiotics, UTIs face an almost non-circumventable line of defense.

3. Cranberry fruit and juice
Cranberry juice or extracts is an age-old recipe against urinary tract infections. A chemical called proanthocyanidins prevents UTIs by making the bladder wall unsuitable for bacteria. Remember to choose unsweetened cranberry juice as sugar attracts and feeds bacterial infections. Mix natural cranberry fruit with plain yogurt for additional probiotics, but you can also try adding regular soda to the juice and make yourself a healthy, exciting drink.

4. Vitamin C
Increased intake of vitamin C can protect you from urinary tract infections. The vitamin increases the acidity of urine, killing bacteria. A study indicates that those who took 100mg of vitamin C reduced their risk of UTIs by half. Fruits and vegetables are typically abundant in vitamin C. Try increasing the intake of red peppers, kiwi, oranges, grapefruit, and lemons. A single serving is bound to contain the recommended amount of vitamin C.

5. D-Mannose
D-Mannose is a supplement made from glucose-like sugar. You can also get cranberry pills with d-mannose to prevent UTI. D-mannose prevents bacteria from clinging to the walls of the urethra, bladder, and ureters. Be careful, though, since D-mannose is not suitable for people with diabetes. Also, some people experience diarrhea as a side effect, so remember to consult a doctor before taking this supplement.

6. Other supplements
Bearberry leaves, also called uva-ursi, along with dandelion roots and leaves, decrease the recurrence of UTIs. Onion and garlic are also treatments for urinary tract infections. Garlic has antimicrobial properties that block the growth of bacteria in the urinary tract. Althaea Officinalis, an anti-inflammatory herb also called marshmallow, soothes the lining of the urinary tract.