What to Drink to Help Get Rid of UTI
Drinking increased water (at least 1.5 L additional water daily) and cranberry products containing proanthocyanidins (PACs) are the most effective beverages to help manage and prevent urinary tract infections. 1
Hydration Strategy
Adequate hydration is a cornerstone of UTI management and prevention:
- Water intake: Drink an additional 1.5 liters of water daily beyond your normal fluid intake 1
- Daily fluid goal: Aim for 2-3 liters of total fluid intake per day unless contraindicated 1
- Mechanism: Increased water intake helps flush bacteria from the urinary tract through more frequent urination
- Evidence: A randomized clinical trial showed that increased water intake significantly reduced cystitis frequency in women with recurrent UTIs 1
Cranberry Products
Cranberry products have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing UTI risk:
- Recommended form: Products containing proanthocyanidin (PAC) levels of at least 36 mg 1, 2
- Options: Cranberry juice, supplements, or tablets
- Mechanism: PACs inhibit the adherence of E. coli bacteria to the bladder wall 2
- Effectiveness: Cranberry products reduce the risk of symptomatic, culture-verified UTIs in:
Other Considerations
While antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider remain the primary treatment for active UTIs, these additional strategies can help:
- Avoid dehydration: Dehydration increases UTI risk by reducing bacterial clearance from the urinary tract 3
- Avoid bladder irritants: During active infection, consider temporarily reducing caffeine, alcohol, and acidic beverages which may irritate the bladder
- Urination habits: Urinate frequently and completely empty the bladder to help flush bacteria 3
What Not to Rely On
- Urine acidification/alkalinization: Not recommended for UTI prevention based on current evidence 1
- Self-medication with antibiotics: Always consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment
When to Seek Medical Care
While increasing fluid intake and using cranberry products can help manage and prevent UTIs, they are not substitutes for medical treatment of an active infection. Seek medical attention if you experience:
- Fever
- Back pain
- Blood in urine
- Symptoms that don't improve within 1-2 days
- Recurrent UTIs (3 or more per year)
Remember that proper hydration and cranberry products work best as part of a comprehensive approach that includes appropriate antibiotic treatment prescribed by a healthcare provider for active infections.