According to Mayo Clinic, a urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common bacterial infection that begins in your urinary system. Although women are at greater risk for developing a urinary tract infection, men can also become infected. Most infections are in the lower part of the urinary tract system such as the bladder and the urethra, states the source, but any part of the system can become infected including the kidneys and ureters.
Some of the symptoms of a urinary tract infection include a strong, persistent urge to urinate and a burning sensation while urinating, notes the Mayo Clinic. Some people will pass a small amount of blood in the urine, turning it pink or light brown and women will often have pelvic pain, while men may have rectal pain. Depending on what part of the urinary system is infection, you may have specific signs and symptoms. For instance, an infection in the kidneys can also cause a high fever and vomiting.
The medical resource reveals some of the key steps to preventing urinary tract infections for women include wiping from front to back after going to the bathroom, avoiding irritating feminine products, emptying the bladder immediately after intercourse and drinking plenty of water.
A recent study published by Archives of Internal Medicine, a JAMA Network publication, reports cranberry products are associated with the prevention of urinary tract infections as well. According to Science Daily, cranberry products have been considered a folk remedy for a long time for these infections, and Chih-Hung Wang M.D. of National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine and colleagues say there is truth to this belief.
“Cranberry-containing products tend to be more effective in women with recurrent UTIs, female populations, children, cranberry juice drinkers, and people using cranberry-containing products more than twice daily,” noted the study authors.
The authors explain these findings likely need additional trials to provide solid evidence, so “this conclusion should be interpreted with great caution.” While cranberry products may help prevent urinary tract infections, the prevention suggestions from the Mayo Clinic should continue to be practiced.
However, if you are hoping to increase the amount of cranberry products you consume, consider trying Ultimate Reds from Dr. Newton’s Naturals. Developed by Dr. Michael Pinkus, this nutrient-rich drink mix contains 22 of the most immunity-boosting fruits and vegetables in the world including cranberries.
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