Natural Solutions to Urinary Problems
Natural Solutions to Urinary Problems
While working in home health, nurses are likely to encounter urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other urinary problems, which affect over thirteen million Americans. People often prioritize their heart or brain when thinking about health, but it is essential not to overlook the kidneys. These two small but important organs are vital in maintaining the body’s function.
The kidneys filter 60-70% of the body’s water, manage waste products, and maintain essential balances. They remove harmful metabolic acids from the blood, regulate blood pressure, and maintain a healthy balance of water and minerals. Without proper kidney function, these processes break down, leading to potentially life-threatening issues such as dehydration, high blood pressure, or the need for dialysis.
In this blog from Evergreen Nursing Health, we will share some natural tips to support kidney function and address common urinary problems such as UTIs and kidney stones. Before diving into remedies, it is important to emphasize one fundamental principle: hydration. Drinking purified water is the first step in supporting kidney health and addressing urinary issues. Always ensure proper hydration before considering additional treatments.
Common Urinary Issues and Natural Remedies
- Water Retention (Edema)
One problem that can arise from poor kidney function is water retention, also known as edema. This results in noticeable swelling, especially in the ankles, feet, and hands, and puffiness under the eyes. Chronic edema may indicate more severe health issues, such as congestive heart failure, so a medical checkup is essential to rule out underlying conditions.
Diuretics—remedies that promote the flow of urine—can help address minor edema naturally. However, be cautious when using pharmaceutical diuretics, as they can deplete the body of potassium, a mineral essential for kidney function. Natural diuretics such as dandelion or parsley can support urine flow while maintaining potassium levels.
- Kidney Stones
Kidney stones can be excruciatingly painful, so prevention is vital. Interestingly, people in primitive societies rarely develop kidney stones, so why should we? Most kidney stones form from calcium oxalate due to an over-concentration of minerals in the urine. Drinking plenty of clean water helps to keep these minerals dissolved and reduces the risk of stone formation.
If you are prone to kidney stones, avoiding foods that increase urinary oxalate, such as nuts, chocolate, tea, and peanuts is wise. Caffeine and carbonated beverages also elevate the risk of kidney stones. Supplements like magnesium and vitamin B6 are beneficial for prevention. If kidney stones have already formed, hydrangea and lemon water can help them pass. A natural remedy involves mixing the juice of four lemons into a gallon of distilled water and drinking this while fasting.
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
UTIs are often caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract, particularly E. coli from the colon. Due to their shorter urethra, women are five times more likely than men to develop UTIs. While antibiotics are a common treatment for UTIs, frequent use can disrupt healthy gut bacteria balance, leading to yeast overgrowth and weakened immune function.
For prevention, research shows that cranberries can inhibit bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract walls, reducing the chances of infection. Drinking unsweetened cranberry juice or taking cranberry supplements with Buchu can help prevent recurrent UTIs. However, remember that cranberry is not practical in treating an active infection.
For an active UTI, the best course of action is to increase water intake and use herbal diuretics to flush the urinary tract. Formulas like JP-X, which contain herbs such as uva ursi and goldenseal, support urinary health during an infection.
Final Thoughts
Caring for your urinary health is critical to your overall well-being. By prioritizing hydration and using natural remedies like cranberry, uva ursi, magnesium, and diuretics, you can prevent and manage urinary problems naturally. At Evergreen Nursing Health, we believe in a holistic approach to health, using natural solutions and professional medical guidance to keep your body’s systems functioning optimally. Consult a healthcare provider for chronic or severe urinary issues to ensure proper care and treatment. Stay hydrated and keep those kidneys “going” for a healthier you!
Best regards,
Diana Nelsen, RN BSN
Please note: The information shared in this blog is intended for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosing or treating diseases. If you have a health concern, we strongly advise you to consult a qualified healthcare professional before taking any action.
Are you looking to secure either of these services? Schedule a free consultation with our expert nurses today!
Natural Solutions to Urinary Problems
Natural Solutions to Urinary Problems
While working in home health, nurses are likely to encounter urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other urinary problems, which affect over thirteen million Americans. People often prioritize their heart or brain when thinking about health, but it is essential not to overlook the kidneys. These two small but important organs are vital in maintaining the body’s function.
The kidneys filter 60-70% of the body’s water, manage waste products, and maintain essential balances. They remove harmful metabolic acids from the blood, regulate blood pressure, and maintain a healthy balance of water and minerals. Without proper kidney function, these processes break down, leading to potentially life-threatening issues such as dehydration, high blood pressure, or the need for dialysis.
In this blog from Evergreen Nursing Health, we will share some natural tips to support kidney function and address common urinary problems such as UTIs and kidney stones. Before diving into remedies, it is important to emphasize one fundamental principle: hydration. Drinking purified water is the first step in supporting kidney health and addressing urinary issues. Always ensure proper hydration before considering additional treatments.
Common Urinary Issues and Natural Remedies
- Water Retention (Edema)
One problem that can arise from poor kidney function is water retention, also known as edema. This results in noticeable swelling, especially in the ankles, feet, and hands, and puffiness under the eyes. Chronic edema may indicate more severe health issues, such as congestive heart failure, so a medical checkup is essential to rule out underlying conditions.
Diuretics—remedies that promote the flow of urine—can help address minor edema naturally. However, be cautious when using pharmaceutical diuretics, as they can deplete the body of potassium, a mineral essential for kidney function. Natural diuretics such as dandelion or parsley can support urine flow while maintaining potassium levels.
- Kidney Stones
Kidney stones can be excruciatingly painful, so prevention is vital. Interestingly, people in primitive societies rarely develop kidney stones, so why should we? Most kidney stones form from calcium oxalate due to an over-concentration of minerals in the urine. Drinking plenty of clean water helps to keep these minerals dissolved and reduces the risk of stone formation.
If you are prone to kidney stones, avoiding foods that increase urinary oxalate, such as nuts, chocolate, tea, and peanuts is wise. Caffeine and carbonated beverages also elevate the risk of kidney stones. Supplements like magnesium and vitamin B6 are beneficial for prevention. If kidney stones have already formed, hydrangea and lemon water can help them pass. A natural remedy involves mixing the juice of four lemons into a gallon of distilled water and drinking this while fasting.
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
UTIs are often caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract, particularly E. coli from the colon. Due to their shorter urethra, women are five times more likely than men to develop UTIs. While antibiotics are a common treatment for UTIs, frequent use can disrupt healthy gut bacteria balance, leading to yeast overgrowth and weakened immune function.
For prevention, research shows that cranberries can inhibit bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract walls, reducing the chances of infection. Drinking unsweetened cranberry juice or taking cranberry supplements with Buchu can help prevent recurrent UTIs. However, remember that cranberry is not practical in treating an active infection.
For an active UTI, the best course of action is to increase water intake and use herbal diuretics to flush the urinary tract. Formulas like JP-X, which contain herbs such as uva ursi and goldenseal, support urinary health during an infection.
Final Thoughts
Caring for your urinary health is critical to your overall well-being. By prioritizing hydration and using natural remedies like cranberry, uva ursi, magnesium, and diuretics, you can prevent and manage urinary problems naturally. At Evergreen Nursing Health, we believe in a holistic approach to health, using natural solutions and professional medical guidance to keep your body’s systems functioning optimally. Consult a healthcare provider for chronic or severe urinary issues to ensure proper care and treatment. Stay hydrated and keep those kidneys “going” for a healthier you!
Best regards,
Diana Nelsen, RN BSN
Please note: The information shared in this blog is intended for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosing or treating diseases. If you have a health concern, we strongly advise you to consult a qualified healthcare professional before taking any action.
Are you looking to secure either of these services? Schedule a free consultation with our expert nurses today!
