About half of all women will suffer from a painful UTI at least once in their lives. A quarter will have recurring infections that may lead to multiple cycles of antibiotic treatments.
It seems like there has been a stall in looking for alternatives to treat these painful infections plaguing women, and new research supports there is plenty of frustration.
The study noted that women are concerned about antibiotic resistance and that doctors don’t seem to be focused on preventative measures or helping to avoid initial or subsequent infections.
What can be done with such a common condition impacting the lives of so many?
A couple of the best UTI prevention tools are water and fiber. It might not sound like much, but specialists agree these common and accessible options can help.
Staying adequately hydrated with water can help clear bacteria from the urethra and limit the chance of infection. Water leads to urination, which ultimately flushes the canal where harmful bacteria can congregate and infect.
Fiber helps by reducing the chances of constipation and diarrhea. Fiber promotes a healthy microbiome, adds bulk to stool, and encourages regular bowel movements.
These two things can easily be included in your diet. Aim for eight glasses of water per day (more if you’re sweating, working hard, or notice urine is a dark yellow), and 25-30 grams of fiber per day.
Fiber is readily available in whole fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, and whole grains.
Experts also suggest Ibuprofen may clear up infections too. Some studies show that 40% of symptomatic UTI episodes can be cleared by the popular painkiller.
Struggling with UTI infections can be painful and frustrating. For now, there are not many treatment options. Do your best to prevent infection by drinking water and eating enough fiber to reduce the chances of constipation and diarrhea.