Last Updated on March 8, 2023 by Team THIP
Quick Take
A widely watched video claimed that baking soda could treat UTIs in just one day. We verified the claim’s accuracy. We discovered from our research that the claim is untrue.
The Claim
A popular YouTube video titled “How to Cure UTI in One Hour, Naturally, Cure from the kitchen”, suggests that urinary tract infections (UTIs) can be treated by consuming baking soda in water, with an emphasis on drinking alkaline fluids for UTIs.
Fact Check
What are the root causes of UTIs?
When bacteria enter the urethra and infect the urinary tract, frequent infections like UTIs may occur. These bacteria are frequently found on the skin or rectum. Although infections can affect different parts of the urinary tract, bladder infections are the most frequent. The most frequent cause of UTIs is bacteria, though fungi and viruses can also infect the urinary tract, and they do so incredibly infrequently. E. coli, a bowel bacterium, is the primary cause of UTIs.
Women are more likely to get a UTI because of female anatomy. A woman’s urethra is shorter and bacteria can enter the bladder more easily. Inadequate hydration, holding urine back on purpose for extended periods of time, spinal cord injuries that affect urination, urinary tract obstruction, a weakened immune system, hormonal changes, and even diabetes are additional factors that may promote the growth of bacteria.
Does baking soda have the ability to treat UTIs?
No, not at all. Although it is said that using baking soda will neutralize the acid in the urine, by reducing the pain and urgency connected with a UTI, this may actually help the body fight the bacteria that is infecting you. Despite the claim, there isn’t much evidence to back up the use of baking soda to treat UTIs.
Furthermore, there is proof that the condition could deteriorate, leading to complications like critical acid-base and electrolyte imbalances and respiratory depression. Additionally, taking baking soda can make a condition that can result in vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, and even seizures.
When we asked Dr. Kashyap Dakshini, General Physician, if natural remedies like baking soda could treat UTIS. He explained that urine could be made alkaline by adding a small amount of sodium bicarbonate to lessen the symptoms of a urinary tract infection. There is no published scientific evidence in any reputable journal regarding the advantages of baking soda in the treatment of urethral infections. Additionally, consuming baking soda may cause breathing problems and an acid-base imbalance. Thus, consultation with a physician, urine testing, and adherence to the recommended course of treatment, which may include antibiotics, are the best courses of action in cases of urinary tract infections.
What is the definitive treatment for urinary tract infections?
Antibiotic medication is the physician’s first line of defense against a UTI. This can be used in conjunction with home remedies to treat the infection or treat the symptoms. However, overuse of antibiotics may damage the good bacteria required for a robust immune system. Therefore, frequent use of antibiotics runs the risk of fostering the development of bacteria that are resistant to them, which would significantly reduce the effectiveness of antibiotics. As a result, it is advised to use antibiotics with caution.
Besides this, the precautions usually involve drinking water, maintaining good genital hygiene, and avoiding feminine hygiene products. Additionally, natural antimicrobial medications may be used to prevent UTIs. These mainly include dietary modifications.
THIP MEDIA TAKE: For the treatment of urinary tract infections, some people do prefer natural remedies. However, some people may believe that using baking soda to treat a UTI reduces their symptoms. Nevertheless, this treatment can have serious health risks, so it is important to consult a doctor before using baking soda to treat a UTI. As a result, we infer that the claim is false.
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