Urinary tract infections can be miserable for anyone, but they are especially more common for people with MS. Bladder issues such as an inability to completely empty when going can contribute to frequent UTI's. If not handled properly these can lead to serious infection and chronic problems that can cause even further discomfort. Personally, I'm not a fan of turning to antibiotics for every thing, and especially with the frequency that UTI's can appear. Antibiotics not only kill the bad, but they kill the good. With digestive issues being on the top of my list of symptoms that we are working to control, antibiotics are not my friend in this regard.
So what natural options can you turn to when you suffer from UTI's? Well I've heard of a few, and even discovered a new one more recently. The common cure people turn to is Cranberry juice. Cranberries are great for your kidneys, bladder, and urinary tract in general. The reasons why cranberry juice works so well for UTI's is not completely conclusive, but some research suggests that certain compounds found in the juice help keep that nasty bacteria from setting up shop. Most people find relief from their UTI's when using cranberry juice very quickly, within a day or two. And the definite upside? None of the healthy bacteria in your system is harmed.
Another quick fix is D-Mannose. This supplement is a naturally occurring sugar, actually the same sugar found in cranberries. Normally sugar would exacerbate a UTI, but this is no normal sugar. The reason why D-Mannose works so well at reversing and preventing UTI's is because it attracts the bacteria and then that bacteria is flushed out with the sugar all together from your system. The bacteria never gets a chance to attach itself and cause problems. And again, this supplement has no nasty side effects. However since it is a naturally occurring sugar, diabetics may need to use caution when taking this.
A few tips to help prevent UTI's in the first place:
- Always wipe front to back when using the toilet
- Remember to pee immediately after sex
- Avoid using perfumed soaps in your intimate areas.
Preventing and treating UTI's with a natural solution, one that you can find for yourself at your local health food store or online is beneficial for you and your wallet. Are you a frequent UTI sufferer? How do you treat them, naturally or with antibiotics?
