According to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), an essential aspect of maintaining a healthy urinary system is balancing the pH of your urine, a measure of acidity or alkalinity that plays an important role in preventing infections. Here are some natural ways to help you regulate your urine pH and support your urinary health.
Stay hydrated
Drinking enough water is a simple yet effective way to maintain a balanced pH level in your urine and help prevent urinary tract problems. When we drink enough water, our urine is more diluted, helping to flush bacteria and toxins out of our body, thereby reducing the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Combine cranberry juice
Cranberry juice is a good choice to support urinary tract health and prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). It contains proanthocyanidins, which help prevent bacteria like E. coli from sticking to the walls of the bladder and urinary tract, reducing the risk of infection. However, choose pure, unsweetened cranberry juice to avoid excess sugar that promotes bacterial growth.
Add probiotics to your diet
A healthy balance of bacteria in your gut and urinary tract is important to avoid infections. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can support urinary tract health by restoring the natural balance of bacteria in your body. Foods such as yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables are rich in probiotics.
Additionally, probiotic supplements contain strains like lactobacillus, which help maintain a healthy urinary tract by producing lactic acid, which helps lower pH and keep harmful bacteria at bay.
Eat alkaline foods
Eating plenty of alkalizing foods like green leafy vegetables, cucumbers, avocados, and bananas helps balance the pH of your urine and supports overall health. These foods help reduce acidity, prevent bacterial growth and inflammation in the urinary system, thereby creating a healthy urinary environment.
Limit acidic foods and drinks
Diet has a big impact on urinary tract health. Some acidic foods like citrus fruits can be beneficial, but foods like red meat, processed foods, coffee, alcohol, and sugary drinks can throw off the pH balance of your urine and increase your risk of infection. Cutting back on these foods and paying attention to how your body responds can improve your urinary tract health.
Practice good hygiene
In addition to diet, practicing good hygiene is also important to prevent the spread of bacteria. Wear breathable cotton underwear and avoid tight clothing to reduce moisture, which helps prevent bacteria from growing. Also, urinate after sex to help remove bacteria that may have entered the urinary tract.
Manage stress levels
Chronic stress can lead to hormonal imbalances and weaken the immune system, making infections more likely. Activities such as yoga, meditation, and regular exercise can help manage stress and support overall health. By reducing stress, you can indirectly support a healthy urinary pH and strengthen your body's natural defenses.
