This root veggie can work as natural remedy for UTI

Many people struggle with UTI (Urinary Tract Infection), which is a common health problem so much so that 2 out of 10 women face this issue every now and then. Blame it on poor hygiene, exposure to unhygienic conditions or diabetes or other urinary tract ailments, the percentage of this infection is higher in women. While most people reach out for medications to treat this issue, there is an age-old remedy in Ayurveda and traditional medicine that may help in healing this condition naturally. So, read on and try out a remedy that revolves around a simple root veggie and how you can add it to the diet.

Why this root veggie?
This may sound bizarre, but eating certain foods may naturally help in healing as well as naturally healing urinary tract infections. Well, this age-old secret is sweet potato, which is believed to be a potent remedy for UTI. This is because sweet potato is packed with essential nutrients and antioxidants, including vitamin A (from beta-carotene), vitamin C, vitamin B complex (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6), potassium, manganese, and dietary fiber. It is believed that these nutrients together offer multiple health benefits such as boosting immunity, and the presence of antioxidants help in keeping infections and ailments at bay.
Video



How does sweet potato help in healing and preventing UTIs?

Boosting immunity with vitamin A
Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A plays a crucial role in strengthening the immune system by supporting mucosal surfaces, including the urinary tract lining, making it harder for bacteria to establish infections.

Anti-inflammatory properties
Sweet potatoes contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients that help reduce inflammation caused by UTIs. This can potentially ease symptoms such as burning sensation and discomfort during urination.



Fiber for gut and urinary health
The high soluble and insoluble fiber content in sweet potatoes promotes gut health by supporting beneficial gut bacteria and regulating bowel movements. Healthy gut flora can reduce the presence of harmful bacteria that might travel to the urinary tract, while regular bowel movements can prevent pressure and bacterial growth near the bladder.


Diuretic effect and toxin flushing
Sweet potatoes, being rich in potassium, may help in flushing out excess sodium and toxins from the body through urine. Increased urination caused by such diuretic effects can help clear bacteria from the urinary tract, thereby preventing and assisting in the management of UTIs.

In fact, by being a source of antioxidants and essential nutrients, sweet potatoes fit well in a diet aimed at preventing UTIs. Their inclusion along with hydration and probiotic foods may enhance urinary and digestive tract health, enabling quicker recovery and reduced risk of recurrence.


Why was it used as a remedy?
In Ayurveda and traditional medicine, sweet potatoes are believed to prevent urinary tract infections, often recommended in diets or soups for those suffering from UTIs to help manage symptoms and support recovery. Modern nutritional science corroborates their benefits due to their nutritional value.



What science says
According to a study published in National Library of Medicines on Anthocyanin Extract from Purple Sweet Potato Exacerbate Mitophagy to Ameliorate Pyroptosis in Klebsiella pneumoniae Infection it was mentioned that “Purple sweet potato anthocyanins (PSPAs), a group of natural flavonoids, have shown significant antibacterial activity against Klebsiella pneumoniae, a common pathogen linked to urinary and respiratory infections. In mouse models of infection, PSPAs reduced bacterial loads, decreased inflammation, and improved survival rates by promoting mitophagy and regulating immune responses via the Nrf2 signaling pathway. These properties indicate potential therapeutic use against bacterial infections.”


According to another research published on Sweetpotatoes: The super food of the Next Century? In an intensive review on their potential as a sustainable and versatile food source for future generations it was mentioned that “It was sound that sweet potato leaves and extracts contain polyphenols, flavonoids, chlorogenic acid, and other antioxidants with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. These components inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines and inflammatory enzymes, which may help reduce infection-related inflammation in the urinary tract.”