Urinary tract infections (UTI) is a bacterial infection which results in pelvic pain, a burning sensation while peeing, abdominal cramps, and a feeling of constant tiredness. The condition is usually treated via antibiotics, but natural remedies can go a long way in managing its symptoms too. Aside from the medications prescribed by the doctor, here are some treatments for UTI, which do not require antibiotics, that you can try out.

Natural treatments for UTI

1. Stay hydrated

Drinking an adequate amount of water is one of the easiest ways to prevent and treat urinary tract infections. Water helps flush out toxins from the body while retaining electrolytes and essential nutrients. Drinking plenty of fluids will dilute the urine and expedite its journey through your body, thereby making it harder for the bacteria to cause infection.

2. Pee when you need to

Frequent urination helps remove bacteria from your urinary tract. It also reduces the exposure time of bacteria to the cells in your urinary tract. As a result, it prevents the risk of infection. You must, therefore, always urinate as soon as the need arises to not only prevent but also treat UTIs faster.

3. Consume more cranberry juice

Cranberry juice is one of the most reliable natural treatments for UTI. It has been used for centuries as a natural method to clear the general infection and speed up recovery. However, studies prove that cranberry juice is also an effective treatment for UTIs. The antioxidants present in red cranberries have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

4. Have more probiotics

Probiotics are useful bacteria that can keep the urinary tract free from harmful bacteria. Consuming more probiotics not only prevents bacteria from attaching themselves to the urinary tracts but also produces hydrogen peroxide that has strong antibacterial properties. It also helps lower urine pH, making it less vulnerable to infection. Consider adding kefir, yogurt, sauerkraut, and certain types of cheese to the diet to increase your intake of probiotics.

5. Vitamin C

Vitamin C contains antioxidants that help fortify your immune system. It also helps lower the pH levels in urine, making it difficult for the bacteria to survive. According to the National Institute of Health, women above the age of 18 should consume at least 75mg of vitamin C in a day. You can find the nutrient in lemon, oranges, potatoes, tomatoes, strawberries, broccoli, etc.

6. Wipe yourself properly

UTIs develop when the bacteria travels from your rectum to your urethra. Once the bacteria reach the urethra, it travels up your urinary tract and causes infection. However, it is possible to prevent this by wiping yourself from front to back when you use the bathroom, reducing urethral exposure.

Even though antibiotics are effective in treating the problem, they often come with side effects, such as rash, diarrhea, headache, nerve damage, etc. Therefore, you can use these home treatments for UTIs to further remedy the condition without depending wholly on medication. Some of these tips will also help you improve your overall well-being.