Sunday, February 13, 2011

5 foods and supplements that prevent urinary tract infections
















Urinary tract infections, also known as UTI or cystitis, is common in women. Although men are less prone, they can get a urinary tract infection also.

Cranberry juice has solid research behind it proving it's not just an old wives' remedy for urinary tract infections. The most common cause of UTIs is an ecoli that naturally occurs on the body. When this ecoli manages to sneak into the urethra and makes it way to your bladder it causes UTI. Cranberry juice prevents the ecoli from sticking to the walls of the bladder. If it can't stick, it can't start an infection.

Cranberry extract in pills or tablets work the same way as cranberry juice. The extract is perfect for people who can't handle the tartness of cranberry juice. This inexpensive food supplement, taken on a regular basis, prevents urinary tract infections from ever taking root.

Pomegranate juice is a powerful anti-oxidant, but it's also been shown to have a similar action on ecoli as cranberry juice. POM Wonderful brand comes in many delicious flavors including Pomegranate Blueberry. Blueberries are acidic and can adjust your PH levels, making for an unfriendly invironment for ecoli. HINT Pomegranate-Tangerine essence waters also has benefits for people needing a diluted form of pomegranate juice.

Serrapeptase is a natural anti-inflammatory from silkworms. It comes in pill form and can help control the inflammation of many diseases including UTIs, arthritis, and nearly any illness ending in "itis." Serrapeptase also thins the blood and should not be used in conjunction with other blood thinners.

Acidic foods http://www.essense-of-life.com/moreinfo/foodcharts.htm including blueberries, cranberries, green olives, pickles, artichokes, and vinegar help create an acidic PH level in your body. This wards of bad bacterias that cause UTIs. It's important to aim for an acidic PH only while fighting a UTI as many diseases actually thrive in an acidic environment. Afterwards, eat a variety of foods that achieve a balanced body PH. For more on eating for PH balance read Are You Eating Enough Alkaline Foods to Maintain Vital Health?