"Drinking Cranberry Juice Doesn't Help Relieve Urinary Infection Symptoms, Say New U.K. Health Draft Guidelines" - Diabetes Education Services (2024)

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"Drinking Cranberry Juice Doesn't Help Relieve Urinary Infection Symptoms, Say New U.K. Health Draft Guidelines" - Diabetes Education Services? ›

It looks like cranberry juice isn't an effective treatment. A recent study review by NICE, the National Institute for Health Care Excellence, reported that cranberry juice actually does not relieve the symptoms of a urinary track infection.

The fastest way to feel better is by taking an antibiotic to get rid of the bacteria causing your infection. If going to see a healthcare provider in person isn't an option, there are telehealth services available that allow you to set up a virtual appointment.

Research has shown that cranberries contain a substance that inhibits bacteria's ability to function inside of the bladder. Drinking cranberry juice or taking cranberry pills may be beneficial for women who have recurrent UTIs.

Antibiotics for UTIs are also the best way to get rid of a UTI fast. Antibiotics quickly get rid of bacteria and make your symptoms go away. In fact, antibiotics can get rid of a UTI in just 24 hours. Most people with a UTI feel back to normal just 1 to 2 days after starting antibiotics.

When you have a UTI, drink plenty of fluids like water, electrolyte drinks, and cranberry juice to stay hydrated. But try to avoid drinking caffeinated drinks like coffee, tea, and energy drinks because they can make your UTI symptoms worse. It's also a good idea to skip alcohol while you're sick.

Sometimes a UTI will go away on its own. Most people will need antibiotics. Some people may be prescribed a 'delayed antibiotic', meaning they'll be asked only to use it if their symptoms don't go away after a certain amount of time.

If you take aspirin regularly, as a blood-thinner, for example, or if you are allergic to aspirin, you should not take cranberry supplements or drink a lot of juice. Other medications: Cranberry may interact with medications that are broken down by the liver.

Bananas can be a safe and nutritious addition to your diet during a UTI. While they are high in potassium, which can potentially aggravate bladder irritation, the overall impact of bananas on UTIs appears to be mild. To maintain good urinary health, it's also crucial to stay well hydrated and practice good hygiene.

If you can get a high-quality cranberry juice or supplement containing at least 36 mg of proanthocyanidins, it can take effect 4-8 hours after consumption. Do not expect a UTI to go away right after consumption completely. Continue consuming juice/supplements and monitor how your symptoms are being alleviated.

What are signs that a UTI is getting worse? ›

Corn, white beans and lentils are good. Salads: Any fruit or vegetable salad made of foods allowed, served with oil and vinegar dressing. Meats, Poultry, Fish, Eggs: At least two large servings of any kind, especially chicken, duck, lean beef and eggs.

Bananas, apples, grapes, coconut, and watermelon are good options for those with overactive bladder. Vegetables – Leafy greens, like kale, lettuce, cucumber, squash, potatoes, broccoli, carrots, celery and bell peppers. Whole grains, like oats, barley, farro, and quinoa (also a great protein).

UTIs are normally treated with a short term course of antibiotics. Most women are given a 3-day course of antibiotic capsules or tablets. Men, pregnant women and people with more serious symptoms may need a slightly longer course. Your symptoms will normally pass within 3 to 5 days of starting treatment.

Peeing can play a big role in getting rid of bacteria from your body. Your pee is a waste product, and each time you empty your bladder, you help remove that waste from your body. Peeing frequently can reduce your risk of developing an infection, especially if you get UTIs a lot.

Drinking 2-3 liters (70-100 oz) of fluid per day helps flush bacteria out of the bladder. Vitamin C. Vitamin C prevents bacteria from growing by making urine more acidic. Adding a supplement of about 500 to 1,000 milligrams should be plenty, but it's always a good idea to ask your doctor what's best for you.