A urinary tract infection (UTI) impacts your urinary tract as well as kidneys, urethra, and bladder. While the most common cause of UTI is bacteria, it can also be caused due to fungi and viruses. The condition is very painful and it is advisable to consult a doctor for the right medication to treat it. However, opting for some natural remedies for UTI in tandem with the medication helps treat the condition faster.

1. Drink lots of fluids
Hydration is necessary to ward off UTI because it helps flush off bacteria from the urinary tract to avoid infection. The best way to stay hydrated and meet your fluid intake requirements is to drink at least 2 liters of water every day. It will make you pee more, thereby flushing out the bacteria and reducing your risk of UTIs.

2. Take more Vitamin C
Vitamin C increases the acidity levels in your urine that help in eliminating infection-causing bacteria. Consider including vitamin C rich fruits and vegetables, such as kiwi, oranges, red peppers, and grapefruit, to your diet.

3. Drink more cranberry juice
Cranberry juice is one of the most reliable natural treatments for UTI.   Cranberries have the necessary compounds that can prevent the bacteria from attaching themselves to your urinary tract, thus avoiding the risk of infection. However, be sure to drink the unsweetened juice to unleash its full benefits.

4. Take more probiotics
Probiotics are gut-friendly microorganisms that are consumed through foods and supplements. They help maintain a balance of gut bacteria. You can either take probiotics in the form of supplements or include more fermented foods in your diet, such as yogurt, kombucha, and kimchi. It not only avoids the risk of UTIs but also improves your digestive health.

5. Practice bathroom hygiene
Another tried and tested natural treatment for UTI is to follow good bathroom habits. Firstly, avoid holding the urine for too long as it can lead to the accumulation of bacteria. Secondly, when using the toilet, make sure that you wipe yourself thoroughly and from front to back. Doing it the other way round can increase the risk of spreading the bacteria to your urinary tract, thereby elevating your chances of UTIs.

6. Eliminate bladder irritants from your diet
When you have a urinary tract infection, you must eliminate food items that have the potential to irritate your bladder such as caffeine, spicy foods, nicotine, artificial sweeteners, and carbonated drinks. Instead, you must consume more fiber-rich foods like oatmeal and lentils to promote digestive health.

7. Use heat treatment to soothe the pain
Inflammation caused due to UTI can be painful. You can use a heating pad to soothe the pubic area. However, maintain the heat setting to low and do not apply directly to your skin.

If your symptoms are mild, you can also begin using these treatments for UTI before visiting the doctor.