The humble apple may in fact help eliminate one of the most common and annoying health issues that affect women – urinary tract infections (UTI)s. UTIs can be debilitating and are caused by bacteria that find their way into the kidneys, urethra and bladder.
What are UTIs and how do they affect the body?
UTIs are incredibly annoying infections that cause symptoms such as the constant urge to wee, a persistent burning sensation and pelvic pain. They can cause immense pain and discomfort and make your life miserable. Over 50 percent of women experience a UTI.
Some women succumb to them on a regular basis. While they are fairly easy to treat, it is important that they are treated quickly as a UTI can lead to a more serious kidney infection.
One of the side effects of a UTI that is often overlooked is delirium. UTIs can cause sudden confusion, also known as delirium in older people, especially people with dementia. A UTI is a common cause of delirium. While the exact causal relationship between a UTI and delirium is not fully understood, we can theorise that it is linked to inflammation in our brain.
When we have an infection, our immune system kicks into gear to fight it off. During this process, inflammation occurs. This inflammatory response can also lead to many of the symptoms we feel, like fatigue and fevers. In older people, the brain is more susceptible to being affected by inflammation and the stress hormones produced by the body to fight infection. The effects of this inflammation on the brain are what show up as delirium.
How can women guard against UTIs?
The good news is that there are some things you can do to reduce the likelihood of developing a UTI should you find yourself experiencing any of these symptoms including that awful stinging sensation – and it involves apple cider vinegar. We are not talking about any apple cider vinegar but apple cider vinegar containing activated phenolics which are the most potent antioxidants activated using water to enable optimal absorption by the body.
Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid which is thought to reduce infection-causing bacteria. In addition, a recent study found that apple cider vinegar may inhibit the growth of E.coli which is one of the main bacterium that cause urinary tract infections (UTI)s.
Add apple cider vinegar with activated phenolics to your diet
Apple cider vinegar has a unique taste. The best way to add it to your diet is to pop a teaspoon into your sugar-free juice in the morning or into tea at the end of the night.
Add a couple of tablespoons to your salad dressing or marinade sauce. It can also be added to warm water with a dollop of honey. Either way, try and add at least two tablespoons to your diet every day. Ensure you are using apple cider vinegar with activated phenolics. These will provide your body with additional antioxidant support to fight off the infection.
Drink lots of water
Water helps to flush bacteria out which eliminates the potential for infection. It also helps to remove infection much faster if it has started developing. Caffeine can irritate your bladder when you have an infection so it is best to avoid consuming drinks that exacerbate the issue.
Increase your intake of garlic
Garlic is good for you. The main component of garlic is allicin. Ajoene, a powerful derivative of allicin is known to guard against bacteria continuing to grow in the body. It is especially good in guarding against E.Coli and Staphylococcus aureus. As soon as you feel the twinge of a UTI coming on, take more apple cider vinegar with activated phenolics, drink a lot more water and eat lots of garlic. If you don’t like the taste or aroma of garlic breath, take it in pill form.
Take care with your underwear
Cotton is a natural breathable fabric that helps your body to ventilate. Wear cotton undies whenever you can. Change them a few times throughout the day. If you go to the gym, put on a fresh pair afterward. Bacteria like warm moist environments so try and keep things well-ventilated. And remember the basics that your mum taught you. Wipe from front to back and regardless of whether you are a scruncher or a folder, always use a clean piece of tissue.
Dr Vincent Candrawinata is the founder of Renovatio Bioscience. Renovatio Bioscience is an Australian success story. Founded in 2016 by Dr Vincent, a highly respected antioxidant researcher, food scientist and clinical nutritionist, the business has developed a range of supplements and skin care products made from 100% Australian apples which are sold nationally and overseas in multiple countries.
