Treating Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Without the Use of Antibiotics


What is a urinary tract infection (UTI)? A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) -- commonly known as a bladder infection, kidney infection, or cystitis -- is caused by bacteria that attach to the inside lining of the urinary system or tract.

In over 90% of all urinary tract infections, the culprit is the bacterium E. Coli, used by the body in the digestive system. When invaded by the offensive E. Coli bacteria, the tissues in the urinary system react similarly to how your sinuses react when you have a cold or allergies; they become swollen, inflamed and irritated. This irritation leads to a reduced urine flow, which causes discomfort and pain.

What is the urinary tract? When we speak of the "urinary tract" we are referring to the following:

• Kidneys - they take liquid waste from the blood and form urine

• Ureter - a tube or tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder

• Bladder - the vessel that stores the urine until it can be passed from the body

• Urethra - the tube that carries the urine from the bladder out of the body

What are the symptoms of a urinary tract infection? The symptoms of a UTI are many, but some of the most common include:

• A frequent urge to urinate.

• A reduced or restricted urine flow.

• Pain or a "burning sensation" in the bladder area.

• Discomfort or pressure above the pubic bone.

• Cloudy, milky, or reddish urine.If you have these symptoms in conjunction with a fever, the infection may have spread to your kidneys.

What are the treatment options for a urinary tract infection? The treatment options fall into two separate categories basically defined as "antibiotic" and "naturopathic".

The antibiotic options include a myriad of prescription antibiotics that require a visit to the doctor's office. While antibiotics are typically effective in treating the UTI, many times they are not. And, unfortunately, the antibiotic option can cause side effects as detrimental as the UTI itself.

Because the antibiotics are not discriminating, they kill any and all bacteria despite their purpose. The human body utilizes over 1,000 species of "good bacteria" -- each with their own particular "job" to do. Killing the "good bacteria" can cause a variety of unwanted and unpleasant side effects such as diarrhea, constipation, nausea and yeast infections.

The naturopathic options include two principal options, cranberry and a simple sugar known as d-mannose.

The cranberry, or cranberry extract option, has been a staple of folk medicine for hundreds of years. Previously thought to inhibit the proliferation of bacteria in the urinary tract by affecting the pH of the urine, it is now known that cranberry instead interferes with the ability of the bacteria to adhere to the walls of the urinary tract. By doing so, the bacteria are literally flushed out of the system. Recently, however, scientists have discovered a naturopathic alternative to cranberry that is between ten and fifty times more effective.The more effective cranberry alternative is a simple sugar known as d-mannose.

D-mannose is a carbohydrate very similar in structure to glucose, yet it is not readily metabolized by our bodies like glucose. It is this fact that makes d-mannose such a fast-acting treatment.

When even a small amount of d-mannose is consumed, nearly all of it is removed from the bloodstream by the kidneys and deposited into the urine. Once in the urine it travels through the urinary tract until it meets up with E. Coli bacteria. Interestingly, the d-mannose is chemically attracted to the lectins that the bacteria uses to attach itself to the walls of the urinary tract.

Think of the lectins as the suction cups on the tentacles of an octopus. The octopus grabs onto an object with its tentacles, but holds on tightly by contracting the suction cups. Anything that interferes with the ability of the suction cups to grip a surface will greatly reduce the ability of the octopus to "hang on." In a similar way, the d-mannose occupies the lectins so that they are unable to hold on to the wall of the urinary tract and the bacteria are flushed right out of the body during urination. The bacteria are unable to colonize inside the body. No bacteria, no infection.

The treatment is safe, fast, effective and affordable. Best of all is the fact that there are no observed negative side effects when using d-mannose. D-mannose can be taken by the elderly as well as by children, as both age groups are susceptible to frequent urinary tract infections.

How can urinary tract infections be prevented? There are many simple things that can be done to prevent UTI. Wiping from front to back after a bowel movement can prevent bacterial contamination of the vagina for women. Using a bidet instead of toilet paper is also very effective. Showering before and after intercourse is very helpful, as well as urinating after intercourse. Drink plenty of water each day so that your body is able to produce plenty of urine. Urinate when you feel the urge to do so and attempt to empty the bladder completely. Finally, for those who experience frequent UTI, it is advisable to take a maintenance dosage of d-mannose in order to prevent UTI from occurring.


More Resources

Your Body is a Map of Your Consciousness
Everything begins with your consciousness. Everything that happens in your life, and everything that happens in your body, begins with something happening in your consciousness.
Natural Remedy for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder - ADHD
Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a complex neurobehavioral disorder of higher brain functioning. ADHD is common among the disorders that get affected in childhood and adolescence.
CPT Codes; What are you Getting Billed for?
All of us visit some sort of medical office from time to time and some of us make the visit a routine. No matter how many times we go in for a checkup or treatment we usually end up paying a relatively inexpensive co-pay for the services rendered to us.
Full Spectrum Daylight Bulbs - Simply Light Years Ahead!
Sunlight is a vital nutrient, which regulates the activity of the hypothalamus gland that secretes seratonin, controlling our moods, biorythms, sleep patterns, body temperature, digestion and sex drive. In addition, the photochemical action of sunlight on our skin activates the production of vital Vitamin D essential for growth and maturation of cells, the maintenance of the bones and a healthy immune system.
The Power of Ganoderma in Oriental Medicine
Ganoderma, a rare variety of Mushroom credited with the highest medicinal qualities by the classic Chinese 'Seng Nong' is indeed a subject of much research from the ancient china of 100 B.C.
Constipation Relief With Fruits Part III
Here's another group of fruits that you can use to get constipation relief. Use these every day for desert or in between meal.
Memory Loss
Memory loss affects thousands of people every year. Memory loss is often attributed to "getting older.
Do Magnets Work?
The scientific explanation behind magnet therapy is that the magnetic fields produced by magnets (generating electromagnetic current) penetrates the human body thereby affecting the functioning of individual cells and improve the various disorders by taking care of the entire body system. Precisely how the magnetic fields do this remains a mystery, but there are several hypotheses.
How Essential Oils Differ From Dried Herbs
Essential Oils are the heartbeat of the plant kingdom,and are perhaps the most exciting life-giving substance we have in the world today. They represent in plants what blood represents in humankind - life! This heartbeat is the energy that was created to deliver the nutrients into every cell of the body.
Alternative Health Treatments for People Who Give Too Much
Being a modern traveler, you probably get onto an airplane these days, find your seat, pull out a paperback and tune out those all-important instructions from the flight attendant about emergency procedures. Let me refresh your memory.
Understanding Massage Therapy
We've all heard of massage and many of us have even experienced it, in one form or another. By a masseuse who happened to be an armature, loved one or professional.
Paintings That Heal? & Children's Healing Art? ? Right !
If you asked me a year ago if a Painting could physically heal you, I would have said Right?! I even remember when my grandmother at age 100, reminded me of the time when tomatoes were considered to be poisonous. (Don't think the Ketchsup companies would like that!) So open your mental filters a little, and let me tell you about my journey discovering Paintings That Heal?.
Hypnosis CDs vs One-to-One Treatment
What's best?Whenever we are about to invest money, whether it be a tin of baked beans, or a complete new hi-fi, we ask ourselves the question what's best? Where will we get the best value for our money? Where will we get the best return for our investment? Now where we all differ is in what we consider best. For some of us, value is the most important so we go for the lowest price that does the job (covers the toast, or plays CD's).
5 Ways to Deal With ADHD
With an increasing number of our youths suffering ADHD, stress syndromes, unemployment, depression, drug use, crime and higher rates of youth suicide than ever before, today's parents and teachers are finding their roles more and more difficult.According to renowned family relationships specialist, Marguerite Clancy, there are no overnight solutions for issues such as ADHD, but there are a few quick things struggling parents can do now to start dealing with it:1) Get into a routine and stick to it (try to include fun times and laughter)2) Set up a punching bag or get your child playing a sport3) Be consistent with discipline and offer rewards where appropriate4) Use positive language, keep directions short, maintain calm5) Agree on consequences for behaviour together"There are many options available to parents and carers.
Low Back Pain - Ayurvedic Management
Low back pain is one of the most common pain disorders today .It is a chronic condition characterized by a persistent dull or sharp pain per the lower back.
Self Hypnosis CD Recordings
The purpose of this article is not to offer an opinion about the efficacy of hypnosis as used by any hypnotherapist. The BMA has long since acknowledged its place as a useful psychological intervention method.
The 5 Hidden Dangers In Toothpaste
A Must Read if You Have Children!Would you allow your family to brush their teeth with engine degreaser or rat poison? The fact is, they probably are and you don't even know it.Dental hygiene products that you and your children use every day may contain toxins that have been linked to cancer, blindness, and even death.
How the Subconscious Reasons When It Communicates With You About Pain Relief
The subconscious is a strange creature. It doesn't know what day it is, and can't add two and two.
About ADD ( Attention Deficit Disorder ), its Symptoms
Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is a condition that is usually characterized by behavioral and learning disorders. ADD generally diagnosed in children, mostly affects the boys than the girls.
Mental Health Maintenance Is Made Simple
Your mental health is often drastically improved when you use the techniques Dr. Kuhn teaches in this article.

More Alternative Information:

Related Articles

a href="33238.php" class="nav">Kundalini Questions
Alex Wrote;"What is the difference after the kundalini awakens, and how do you know if it did?About 25 years ago I was sitting alone by a creek in the morning, not formally meditating (which I've never done), just watching the water flow.Suddenly there was an extremely intense ball of energy that formed at the base of my spine, buzzed there for a bit, then shot up my spine and 'exploded' in my head and 'out my eyes' and turned what I saw into a sort of mosaic made of the colors of what was there, but not the exact forms anymore.
Headache, Hypnosis, And Stress, A Case History
Now, more that ever, concerned physicians are beginning to ask about and understand the role of non-drug therapies to assist patients with headache. These therapies, alone or in combination with medications can significantly impact on headache treatment.
Secrets Of Aromatherapy Part I - Physical Remedies
Aromatherapy can be used to relieve the discomfort of awide range of minor physical complaints including burns,colds, flu, sinus problems, cold sores, eczema, headache,indigestion, menopause, menstrual irregularities, muscleaches, nausea and toothaches.Diluted in healing carrier oil such as aloe vera,essential oils can relieve the pain of minor burns.
Exploring the Mystery of Aromatherapy Through Biotechnology
Aromatherapy originated in Ancient Egypt. About a hundred years ago, a pharmacist from France used an innovative method which led to a breakthrough in aromatherapy techniques.
Limitations You Should Know About When Using the Subconscious For Pain Relief
As powerful as the subconscious can be in relieving pain, it has a number of limitations that you should be aware of before attempting to use it to ease your pain.The use of the subconscious to ease pain can be not only helpful but in some cases may be the only thing that seems to produce lasting relief.
Allergy Approaches through Lifestyle
What we do is just as powerful as what we eat to keep ourselves operating at our very best health. This applies to taking care during allergy season as well.
Holistic Methods: Hemp Seed Oil and Aromatherapy in Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Aromatherapy is a well known holistic method for healing, but when boosted by the quickly penetrating carrier hemp seed oil, the healing potential is magnified exponentially. No other carrier oil can take the beneficial medicinal qualities of aromatic essential oils as quickly through the epidermis as hemp seed oil, so if your lotions and salves are missing it, you're not doing your body justice, but it's not too late?.
Bad Breath and Gingivitis
Does this sound familiar to you? My dentist and hygienist mentioned that I had irritated gums as they cleaned my teeth. This is a symptom of gingivitis.
An Udderly Ricidulous Home Remedy
Home Remedies - Facts or Quacks?That's what I recently asked myself. Myths and legends often have their basis in a grain of truth.
Alternative Medicine vs Conventional Medicine - Pt 2
In Part 1 we discussed the fact that alternative medicine (so called) was being used in ancient times long before conventional medicine came on the scene. It is interesting to note that there were not so many diseases plaguing mortals in those days.
Ayurveda - The Natural Remedy
The word Ayurveda is made up of two Sanskrit words ayur and veda meaning 'life' and 'knowledge' respectively. Taken together they mean the 'science of life'; in a more limited sense, the term is used to imply the science of medicine.
Youth People Obsessed With Sunless Tanning
Darker-complexioned teens will always seek a tanning bed or booth. Because they want a perfect and perpetual tan.
Benefits of Human Growth Hormone - HGH Enhancing Products
Human Growth Hormone has often been referred to as the "fountain of youth hormone". So, have we stumbled upon the proverbial "fountain of youth" with these new HGH enhancement supplements that claim to reduce fat, relieve "aging symptoms" such as wrinkles, increase energy and sex drive, promote sounder and deeper sleep cycles, and rejuvenate the body? Well, there are several faithful users of products in this arena (and I'm one of them) that will swear that since they have started taking HGH enhancing products, they've experienced a wide range of pleasing and desirable benefits, and it's not placebo.
Nature, An ADHD Natural Treatment
My mother's warning; "You are going to rot your brain out..
Cleaners And Our Health
Many people use strong cleaners or acid cleaners to make the house clean and to get hard to clean stains out, but people don't realize that many cleaners are bad for our health they contain ingredient that irritate the skin and the fumes that those cleaner produce are dangerous if we inhale them.Many people suffer from asthma and other respiratory problems and using those type of cleaners in a place not well ventilated can be harmful for the health.
Constipation and Toxicity
Having regular constipation can lead to some serious illnesses. Fecal matter should move through your colon easily and in a given time.
Breathing Your Way To Health
Breathing, yes of course we do it, if not we'd be dead, obvious isn't it. But in the far east Breathing techniques have been used for thousands of years.
Home Saunas and Kits: Benefits, Pre-Planning, and Purchasing Tips
For quite some time now home saunas have gained massive popularity across the United States. A tradition first followed by the Finns about a thousand years back, the benefits of saunas have caught on in the United States with a lot of acclaim and acceptance.
Serotonin Kills Pain - And May Be Available From Your Subconscious
Serotonin is not just for depression--it's potent for pain relief as well. Here's a drug-free way you may be able to increase your supply of this natural painkiller.
Tobacco Hypnosis: Cigarettes Are My Friend
Practicing hypnotherapists hear many peculiar statements from smokers who ask for help in quitting. The idea that cigarettes could be someone's "friend" is just one of them.