Apple cider vinegar is touted as a cure-all for many conditions. It’s thought to reduce infections by killing bacteria. ACV is used for cleaning and disinfecting. Science does show that ACV does help with nail fungus. Vinegar can improve insulin functions and it may even have some protective effects against cancer. However, for all the wonders of apple cider vinegar, can it prevent or cure UTIs?
What Are UTIs?
A urinary tract infection is one of the most common infections that bring women to the doctor. Most women will get at least one UTI in their lifetime. Some women have recurrent UTIs that keep coming back. The symptoms are uncomfortable. You might feel an intense need to urinate but are only able to pee a little each time. When you do pee, it may burn. You may actually have pelvic pain and a low-grade fever while your body fights the infection.
Most UTIs are treated effectively with antibiotics. You don’t want to let a UTI go untreated, because it can travel through your urinary system up to your kidneys. When dealing with a UTI after sex or menopause, you should get it treated by your doctor. Then, you should consider a long-term proactive approach to avoiding another one. No one really understands what causes recurrent UTIs? It could be that your immune system can’t fight off the infections. Your body may have an abnormality in the bladder or urethra. It could be a hormonal problem.
What Is the Connection Between Apple Cider Vinegar and UTIs?
People drink ACV to cure UTIs because they think that it will reduce the bacteria. Some drink it straight, while others dilute it with water or another drink to make it more palatable. The acetic acid in ACV makes your urine more acidic, which they believe will kill the germs. The science isn’t there, though. There was an study from 2108 that found ACV prohibited the growth of E.coli in petri dishes. There is no scientific evidence that showed apple cider vinegar could cure or prevent a UTI.
What Can You Do About UTIs?
Some over-the-counter medications can help you manage the symptoms while you wait for the antibiotics to take hold. Keep in mind that those medications will not cure the UTI. You must see your healthcare provider to get treatment for a UTI. You’ll want to drink plenty of water and take care of yourself while you’re healing.
Once the infection is cleared up, you want to get proactive in preventing a UTI. Wear cotton underwear to let your genitals have air, which keeps bacteria from growing. Never hold your urine. Go to the bathroom when you need to. Empty your bladder completely. After sex, make sure to go to the bathroom to flush out bacteria.
Consider taking a supplement for the best UTI prevention. Probiotics can build up your immune system and grow healthy bacteria to fight UTIs. Use a supplement that helps your body flush out the bad bacteria that causes a UTI. Get more information about this natural product to take care of your body.
Amna is a writer, blogger who writes for a variety of online publications. She is also an acclaimed blogger outreach expert and content marketer. He loves writing blogs related to Business, Education, Fashion, Travel, Health and Technology sectors.