Urinary tract infections (UTIs) represent a significant bother for women however it can happen to both men and women. A woman may get a UTI condition at any stage of her life. There are various reasons why women are much more prone to Urinary tract infection as compared to men. During pregnancy and menopause the UTIs are frequent or we can say the risk of UTI becomes high.
Reasons of UTI
Main reasons of high rate of UTI among female are;
1. Lower urinary tract anatomy and its proximity to the reproductive organs.
2. Urethra is closer to the rectum
3. Short urethra. It reduces the distance for bacterial ingress.
4. More sensitive skin
5. More hygiene care during the menstrual cycle.
6. Use of certain kind of contraceptives
According to statistics, one in every two women and one in every twenty males will develop a UTI over their lifetime.
Prevention and treatment without allopathic
The urinary system is designed to reduce the risk of significant kidney infection. Most urinary infections are limited to the bladder and, while they cause symptoms, are not life threatening. With lifestyle changes, self-care, food habits, enough hydration, and hygiene UTIs can be prevented and cured.
We all know that lifestyle changes, a balanced diet, physical activity, good thoughts and having traditional therapeutic practices can keep us away from many physical and mental diseases. They are called complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Which are not considered as part of conventional allopathic medical practice.
Using probiotics supplements to heal urinary tract infections is CAM practice. Also, Cranberry juice is known to be very helpful in Urinary Tract Infections. It is not anti-microbial but rich in proanthocyanidins, a substance that can prevent the E. coli bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract and bladder.
Role of Probiotic in UTI
Probiotics are microorganisms mainly bacteria in the body that are beneficial to one’s health. Often referred to as “good bacteria,”. These bacteria are found in different body parts due to it’s necessity in defence , provides vitamins, and helps the digestion process. Probiotic or good bacteria are active in many parts of the body like the mouth, stomach, intestines and the vagina. These bacteria keep the balance of vaginal flora.
There are studies done by the National Library of Medicines on the role of probiotics in women with recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) that sys about the impactful results on UTI with the use of probiotics . A UTI results from the transmission of pathogens from the rectum and/or vagina to the urethra and bladder. Lactobacillus is recognised as an important part of the normal flora in the female genitourinary tract and the reduction in numbers increases the risk of UTI.
However, please note the urinary tract infection in premenopausal and postmenopausal will have different reasons. Most of the recurrent UTIs in women occur in the presence of uropathogenic E. coli.
Clinical studies have demonstrated that oral administration of Lactobacillus can demonstrate its effects after reaching the vagina. In these studies, probiotic capsules containing L. rhamnosus and L. fermentes were administered orally at a certain dose on a daily basis. In the following studies the authors reported that probiotic capsules administered orally may regulate the vaginal flora and may be effective on recurrent UTIs. It has also been emphasized that oral probiotics may be more comfortable for patients than for vaginal administration, and that patient compliance with treatment may be better.
Antibiotics and Probiotic
Antibiotics are commonly prescribed to reduce infection in UTIs cases. However, it is noticed that antibiotics also reduce the number of good bacteria, especially lactobacilli, in the urinary system and may cause antibiotic resistance in the following period. Certain well named antibiotics have significant effects on the intestinal microbiome. There are chances that you may disturb your whole gut microbiome.
To correct vaginal microflora, to prevent and treat genital and urinary infections, probiotics should contain Lactobacillus species. The mechanism of action of probiotics may include acidification of the mucosal surface, inhibition of adhesion of pathogens, synthesis of substances such as vitamins and immunomodulators, and synergistic activity with the host’s immune system.
How to get Probiotic
Probiotics can be found in probiotic supplements and food. Fermented foods are good sources of probiotics like yogurt, homemade pickles, idli, buttermilk, dhokla, dark chocolates, cheese, apples etc.
Probiotic supplements are available in tablets, capsules and powder. They are mostly available over the counter. A supplement with essential bacteria in the right cfu with approvals and certifications is always advisable. As discussed for UTI concerns, check if your supplement has spores of Lactobacillus species. WonderPro Super Probiotic is one of the supplements that has five important good bacteria that your body needs. This supplement is highly recommended for several digestive related issues like bloating, irritable bowel syndrome, gastritis etc and can be also used for UTI prevention. It has spores of Lactobacillus species that can keep the vaginal microbiome healthy.
Along with everything you need to check your water intake and see that you don’t hold urination. Drinking enough water and healthy liquids like coconut water, fruit juice, butter milk etc keeps your system afresh and fit.
Comments