Stay Hydrated, Stay Healthy

PARALYZED VETERANS OF AMERICA, CAL-DIEGO CHAPTER

Stay Hydrated, Stay Healthy:

The Role of Hydration in Preventing UTIs

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common and often painful condition that affects millions of people each year. While antibiotics are the standard treatment, prevention is always better than cure, and one of the simplest yet most effective ways to reduce UTI risk is through proper hydration. Drinking enough fluids, particularly water, supports the body’s natural ability to flush out bacteria before they can take hold and cause infection.

Why Hydration Matters for UTI Prevention

The urinary tract is designed to keep itself clean, but it needs adequate fluid intake to do so efficiently. When you drink plenty of water, your kidneys produce more urine, helping to flush bacteria out of the bladder and urethra before they have a chance to multiply. This is especially important because the majority of UTIs are caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli), a bacteria that can cling to the walls of the urinary tract and to lead infection.

Beyond flushing out bacteria, staying well-hydrated also helps maintain a healthy urinary pH balance, creat- ing an environment that is less favorable for bacterial growth. Dehydration, on the other hand, can lead to highly concentrated urine, which contains higher levels of irritants and waste products that can contribute to bladder irritation and increase the risk of infection.

Additionally, when you drink enough fluids, you naturally urinate more frequently, which prevents bacteria from lingering in the urinary tract. Holding in urine for long periods can allow bacteria to multiply, increasing

How Much Water Do You Need?

The general recommendation is to drink about six to eight glasses of water per day (1.5–2 liters), though individual needs may vary based on factors like climate, physical activity, and overall health. For those prone to UTIs, increasing fluid intake has been shown to significantly reduce recurrence. One study found that women who drank more than 1.5 liters of water daily had fewer UTIs compared to those with lower fluid

Hydration Tips to Keep UTIs at Bay

While water is the best choice for hydration, other fluids can also provide additional benefits for urinary health:

Coconut Water – This natural drink is not only refreshing but also has diuretic properties, which may help flush bacteria from the urinary tract. Plus, it’s rich in electrolytes that help maintain hydration levels.

Herbal Teas – Certain herbal teas, such as chamomile and ginger, have anti- inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that support bladder health.

Cranberry Juice – Unsweetened cranberry juice contains compounds that may help prevent bacteria from adhering to the bladder walls, reducing the risk of infection.

Stay Hydrated, Stay Healthy

Preventing UTIs doesn’t have to be complicated. By making hydration a daily priority, you can support your urinary tract’s natural defense mechanisms and reduce the risk of infection. Keep a water bottle handy, sip throughout the day, and incorporate hydrating, bladder-friendly beverages into your routine.

Your body will thank you!

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