Urinary tract infections are infections that are found in the urinary system and result from the invasion of bacteria, fungi and viruses. Appear in both sexes with a much higher frequency in women of all ages. In fact, one in two (50%) people are at risk of urinary tract infection at some point in their lives and one in five (20%) of women are finally affected. Symptoms vary according to age, pathogenic microorganism and not only. Typically, women report urgency or dysuria, bloody urine, pain and a burning sensation in the genitals during urination.
The most common and major causes of urinary tract infection are:
- Poor hygiene
- Postponement of urination
- Sexual practices
- Diabetes
- Summer habits (wet swimwear, pool use, sand contact)
The most common treatment against urinary tract infections is the administration of antibiotics, always at the advice of the doctor. Antibiotics are not always the only solution to treat urinary tract infection. There are natural ways that can act both preventively and therapeutically.
The value of the diet for urinary health
Diet is a tool that can significantly reduce the chances of developing urinary tract infections but also reduce the intensity of the symptoms. Daily practices such as the following may be particularly useful.
- HYDRATION: Increased fluid consumption is required. We increase urinary excretion through increased water intake and diuretic fluids such as leisha (an average of 10 glasses of liquids per day.)
- PROBIOTICS: These microorganisms, apart from the gastrointestinal tract, are also found in the urinary tract, and their presence there is extremely important as they protect it from other pathogenic microorganisms and strengthen the immune system, making it “more possible to fight” pathogenic invaders. Probiotics can be found in dairy products as well as in specialized dietary supplements.
- CRANBERRY: Numerous scientific studies confirm their effectiveness in treating urinary tract infections. In particular, high levels of proanthocyanidins and antioxidants have rightly classified cranberries in the SUPERFOODS category. The most common and readily available edible form is dried or juice.
But there are also specialized nutritional supplements such as CRANBECARE of the Greek company SUPERFOODS NATURE’S BEST® with increased concentration in cranberries that is recommended for people susceptible to urinary tract infection. This particular formulation is aimed at those who want to maintain urinary health, especially in the summer months where the incidence is significantly more frequent, and in those who need strong antioxidant protection. Each tablet contains 72mg of proanthocyanidins (PACs) and 400mg of cranberries extract. To make such a capsule, 15.200mg of cranberries are needed.
Adhering to the hygiene rules, following the above nutritional practices combined with a balanced diet and SUPERFOODS NATURE’S BEST® natural allied CRANBECARE, we protect the urinary system and shield it from possible and unintended urinary tract infections.
