Urinary tract infection (UTI) is defined as the multiplication of microorganisms in the urinary tract, which can cause unpleasant symptoms. One of the ways to avoid the problem is to make sure adequate fluid intake But do they really work?

What is a urinary tract infection?

As explained before, it is the rampant growth of microorganisms in the urinary tract area. There are several agents responsible for the infection, for example: Escherichia coli (65-80% of cases), Klebisiella , Enterococcus faecalis , Streptococcus from group B, Ureaplasma urealyticum among others.

The main symptoms are pain and burning when urinating, the feeling of not having eliminated all urine after urination, frequent urination, and colic In addition, another sign that may occur in a urinary tract infection is the presence of small streaks of blood in the urine.

In some cases, the disease can go further and reach the kidneys, a situation called pyelonephritis, lumbar pain and fatigue can also appear.

The diagnosis of UTI is clinical and laboratory confirmed by urine tests that indicate if there is bacterial contamination. fever (However, complicated cases may require hospitalization and intravenous medication.

Read also: Watermelon Cranberry Juice: Check out the recipe

Do teas for urinary tract infection work?

Much is said about cranberry But it is important to emphasize that food does not cure the infection - the best treatment is still the one prescribed by the doctor. Some studies point out, however, that it can help to prevent the disease.

A research conducted by scientists at Tufts University, for example, has shown that routine drinking of the beverage in healthy, non-pregnant women can reduce the risk of suffering from a urinary tract infection - the less severe form, called cystitis - by up to 26 percent.

However, more studies are needed on the subject. Brazilian Society of Urology states that, despite some promising results, "there is insufficient evidence to recommend the routine use of cranberry juice in the prevention of repeat UTI. There is no established dose for this product yet."

A more guaranteed benefit of juices and teas for urinary infection is their hydrating power, since they all carry a lot of water. And drinking liquids properly is one of the steps to prevent the problem - as well as not holding the pee, going to the bathroom after intercourse, and doing the correct hygiene of the area after defecation.

Best teas for urinary tract infection

Want to add some teas to increase your daily water intake? Check out some delicious recipes:

Black tea with cranberry

Ingredients:

• 500ml cranberry juice;
• 50g cranberry (fresh or dehydrated);
• Sweetener to taste;
• 140ml of ice water;
• 1 liter of iced black tea.

Directions:

Mix all the ingredients together and serve immediately.

Iced cranberry drink with pineapple

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cranberry juice
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice
• 80ml of lemon mix, water and sweetener to taste;
• Ice;
• Sparkling water.

Directions:

Mix all the ingredients together and serve immediately.

References:

• Cranberry Reduces the Risk of Urinary Tract Infection Recurrence in Otherwise Healthy Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis;
• Female Urology: SBU Recommendations.