How your microbiota can cause UTIs
Many people, and especially women, suffer from occasional urinary tract infections (UTIs), with some suffering chronic infections. Statistically, one in two women and one in twenty men will experience one in their life.
E coli
Infections (or overgrowths) of the bacteria in your gut could be the root cause. Typically, the bacteria that causes this infection is a species called E coli – Esherichia coli – which normally lives in the large intestine. It’s responsible for around 90% of UTIs.
The E coli species can be harmless, but some strains can cause food poisoning, pneumonia, UTIs and another can create a toxin called Shiga, potentially leading to kidney issues. In general, the bladder and urethra, or kidneys can be affected by urinary tract infections.
Most UTI’s begin in the urethra and bladder. Basically, bacteria from the bowel live on the skin near that region (including the anus), and if you have an overgrowth in your gut of E coli, it can spread and enter the urinary tract through the urethra.
The process of bacterial colonisation goes like this…
The bacteria colonises the urethra and moves up towards the bladder
In the bladder it reproduces and can form protective films
From there it might reach the kidneys via the ureters
There it can cause an inflammatory response
Up in the kidneys this can lead to injury
But why do E coli overgrowths occur?
One risk factor can be an overgrowth of certain E coli strains in your gut that reach your urethra where they colonise. Of note, all gut infection cause inflammation in the body, weaken the immune system and produce unhealthy toxins.
But why does E coli colonise this area? This could be due to being on the contraceptive pill, sexual intercourse, female anatomy (which makes women more susceptible), diabetes, menopause, pregnancy, kidney stones and obesity.
But what about the local microbiota?
The vagina and bladder are sites where infecting bacteria can reside as well as be kept in check. If the normally protective Lactobacillus species decreases or is lost in the vagina, this can increase the risk of getting a UTI.
Again, this may result from the influence of estrogen deficiency and contraceptives, but also from too much antimicrobial therapy.
Antibiotics
Typically, doctors prescribe antibiotics. The problem with this is that antibiotic-resistant bacteria are common now. Under a microscope, they’ve been observed mutating with 20 seconds of the introduction of an antibiotic.
In addition, antibiotics further disturb the balance of bacteria in the gut and vagina/bladder by also killing off good bacteria, allowing an E coli infection to worsen, or others to develop, further weakening the immune system and leaving you more vulnerable to UTIs.
What to you do if you feel an infection coming on
Basic hydration is a simple and powerful thing to do. Drinking 2.5-3 litres of clean water will help flush the kidneys, bladder and urethra.
It’s possible to flush out E coli bacteria by drinking the natural diuretic cranberry, which contains a flavonoid called proanthocyanidin-A, which prevents the bacteria from colonising or attaching to the urinary tract. Cranberry also regulates pH which relieve some discomfort, reduces inflammation and boosts immunity.
Apple cider vinegar contains an antimicrobial compound called acetic acid that can act as a disinfectant, kills resistant bacteria and allows good bacteria to thrive. It can also strengthen the immune system to better deal with bacteria.
D-mannose, cranberry juice and probiotics taken together have been shown in research to be a potent way of preventing recurring UTIs. Similar to cranberry juice, D-mannose works by attaching to E coli so it can’t cling to the bladder wall, and are then urinated out.
Other diuretics are parsley juice or tea, and celery.
A more recent therapy is to reduce any negative impacts on the vaginal microbiota and / or to restore protective lactobacilli, which can reduce the risks of getting a UTI. Douches can help with this. Taking oral probiotics can also help such as Saccharomyces boulardii, which can reduce E coli infections in the gut, improving overall immunity.
Strengthening the immune system with zinc (citrate is a good form), vitamin C (liposomal, hesperidin or food based, not ascorbic acid) can also support your body to fight an infection.
Anti-microbials can also help. Natural ones are garlic, monolaurin and berberine. But anti-microbials shouldn’t be taken for too long and might need professional guidance. Biofilm disruptors may also be needed to eradicate the bacteria’s protective coating.
Longer term health
In the longer term, supporting gut health, your immune system and blood sugar using a whole-food natural diet, targeted healing and rebalancing, and protocols will help overall health outcomes.
Also, consider eating low oxalate. Genetics, yeast infections and mould can raise them in the body and irritate the bladder, leading to infections.