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Naturopathic Remedies for Bladder Infections

According to the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians, naturopathic medicine is based on the belief that given the right nutrition, supplements, lifestyle choices and exercise the body has the innate ability to heal itself. In this spirit, naturopathic remedies for bladder infections---also called a urinary tract infection (UTI) or cystitis---emphasize a holistic approach that may include changes in diet, personal habits and fitness.

  1. Nutrition

    • Avoid sugar---including natural sugars found in fruits---and alcohol. This nutritional change can be the first step in healing a bladder infection as these items act as "food" for the type of bacteria that cause a bladder infection. An increase in water intake will help flush the urinary system and speed healing. Drinking at least one quart of unsweetened cranberry juice daily has also been shown to retard the growth of bacteria within the urinary tract.

    Supplements

    • Acidify your urinary tract. Health experts at the University of Virginia Health System suggest that large amounts of vitamin C, up to 1,000mg daily, can raise the acidity level in urine and slow the growth of bacteria in the urinary tract.

    Habits

    • Urinate frequently to help flush the urinary system of bacteria, especially if you are a woman. Unfortunately for women, information from the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center (MSHMC) states that "bladder infections are more common among woman than men because of their shorter urethra." When bacteria travels from the urethra to the bladder, an infection may occur.

      According to the Hershey Center, using a diaphragm or spermicidal jelly may inflame or irritate the vaginal wall and increase the chance of bacterial growth, and the center recommends that women urinate and cleanse after sexual intercourse. If you are a women who suffers from chronic bladder infections and uses a diaphragm, your naturopathic doctor may advise you to switch to another form of birth control.

    Fitness

    • Practice yoga as a regular form of exercise; your naturopathic doctor may recommend yoga if you frequently experience bladder infections. In an article published by Health and Yoga.com, Dr. Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani especially recommends the mula bandha position for "toning up the kidneys and bladder." Other poses that may benefit bladder health include the Firefly Pose, the Noose Pose and Setu Bandha.

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