Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common health issue affecting millions worldwide. According to a study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, UTIs are responsible for over 1 million physician visits and 100,000 hospital admissions annually in Canada. In this blog post, we will explore the prevalence of UTIs among women in Canada and what steps can be taken to prevent and treat them.
Firstly, let's understand what a UTI is. A urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria enter the urethra and multiply in the bladder. Symptoms of a UTI include pain or burning during urination, frequent urination, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and pain in the lower abdomen or back. In some cases, UTIs can lead to more severe complications such as kidney infections, which can be dangerous if left untreated.
Women are at a higher risk of developing UTIs than men. This is partly due to anatomical differences, as women have a shorter urethra than men, making it easier for bacteria to travel up into the bladder. Additionally, sexual activity can increase the likelihood of developing a UTI, as bacteria can be pushed into the urethra during intercourse
Fortunately, there are steps that women can take to prevent UTIs. The following tips can help reduce the risk of developing a urinary tract infection:
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps to flush bacteria out of the urinary tract.
- Practice good hygiene: Wiping from front to back after using the bathroom can help prevent the spread of bacteria from the rectum to the urethra.
- Urinate after sex: This helps to flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urethra during intercourse.
- Avoid irritating products: Using harsh soaps, perfumes, and douches can irritate the urethra and increase the risk of infection.
- Consider natural supplements: Certain supplements, such as cranberry extract or D-mannose, may help prevent UTIs by preventing bacteria from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract.
UTI Pro™ contains high doses of D-Mannose and Cranberry juice extract (from Vaccinium macrocarpon). Both plants have been traditionally used for naturally preventing the re-occurrence of urinary tract infections, in particular, caused by E. coli bacteria.
The presence of a high dose of D-Mannose in this formula is essential. When D-Mannose is consumed and absorbed into the bloodstream it eventually gets excreted. As it passes through the urinary tract, D-Mannose can bind to the E. coli bacteria present in the urinary system. This binding process can help prevent the bacteria from attaching to the walls of the urinary tract, allowing them to be flushed out of the body during urination.
Both Cranberry and D-mannose prevent the bacterial fimbriae from attaching to the urinary tract wall and to be easily flushed out through normal urine flow. Together they form the most powerful synergistic combination for naturally treating urinary tract infections.
Diuresis (increased production of urine) is stimulated by Uva-ursi and Betula pendula and Juniperus communis. By stimulating diuresis, bacteria are flushed away. Juniperus communis also doubles as a powerful natural antiseptic.
Serra-Plus Forte is a highly effective and fast acting anti-inflammatory and pain relief natural health product with a very successful historic track record of effectiveness
The formulation consists of the perfect synergy of natural ingredients that are proven to reduce pain and inflammation throughout the body.
Serra-Plus Forte contains maximum potency Serrapeptase (120,000 SU), a higher dosage of Boswellia serrata extract containing 65% Boswellic acids, high quality Curcumin extract standardized to 95% Curcuminoids, Stem-Bromelain, Papain, Ginger, and Piperine (Piper nigrum) for improved bioavailability.
Did you know
Antibiotics are NOT necessarily the answer to UTIs. Many of the bacteria which cause UTI’s have developed resistance to antibiotics.
In summary, practicing good hygiene, staying hydrated, and considering natural supplements can all help prevent UTIs. If you do develop symptoms of a urinary tract infection, seeking medical treatment promptly can help prevent more serious complications.
Article sources:
- Mittal, P., & Wing, D. A. (2018). Urinary tract infections in pregnancy. Clinics in Perinatology, 45(3), 567–586. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clp.2018.04.006
- Mody, L., Juthani-Mehta, M., & Meyer, K. S. (2014). Urinary tract infections in older women: A clinical review. JAMA, 311(8), 844–854. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2014.303
- Gupta, K., Hooton, T. M., Naber, K. G., Wullt, B., Colgan, R., Miller, L. G., ... & Nicolle, L. E. (2011). International clinical practice guidelines for the treatment of acute uncomplicated cystitis and pyelonephritis in women: A 2010 update by the Infectious Diseases Society of America and the European Society for Microbiology and Infectious Diseases. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 52(5), e103-e120. https://doi.org/10.1093/cid/ciq257
- HealthLink BC. (2021). Urinary tract infection in women. https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/health-topics/hw115139
- Public Health Agency of Canada. (2013). Canadian antimicrobial resistance surveillance system report: Executive summary 2013. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/drugs-health-products/canadian-antimicrobial-resistance-surveillance-system-report-2013-executive-summary.html
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2017). Urinary tract infections in adults. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/urinary-tract-infections-adults