Quick Take

Social Media posts claim that drinking apple cider vinegar can help cure urinary tract infections. Our fact check reveals it’s Mostly False.

Fact Check

Can drinking apple cider vinegar really cure UTIs?

No, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that drinking apple cider vinegar can cure a UTI. A study from 2018 concluded that ACV has antimicrobial properties against E. coli in lab settings. But, there is no current evidence to suggest that drinking ACV can effectively treat UTIs in humans.

Apple cider vinegar may have antimicrobial properties, but there’s no evidence it can treat or prevent UTIs. It’s important to see a doctor for proper treatment, usually antibiotics, to avoid serious complications. Misusing antibiotics can lead to resistance, so always follow the prescribed course. While ACV won’t cure a UTI, it can still be included in a balanced diet for other potential health benefits. If you’re wondering whether ACV is good for diabetes, the good news is that it has blood sugar-lowering properties.

Can turmeric reduce UTI symptoms?

Not really. Turmeric contains curcumin which is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties. According to a 2013 study, curcumin’s benefits are largely related to inflammation reduction in general health conditions. During our investigation, we also found an animal study from 2017 which suggests that curcumin can potentially treat chronic urinary tract infection in rats.

Several studies, including a 2019 study, point out that curcumin has low bioavailability in the body. This makes it unlikely to have a significant impact on urinary tract infections, even when consumed with black pepper to enhance absorption.

In one of the post, social media reel depicts the preparation of a juice that can cleanse your kidneys and liver and make you get rid of UTI.

Does black pepper enhance the remedy’s effectiveness?

It may not. Black pepper primarily enhances the absorption of curcumin from turmeric, but it has no documented ability to cure UTIs. There is evidence which indicates that black pepper has antimicrobial properties, and a 2016 study suggests it has antibacterial effects. However, no credible studies link black pepper to any effect on urinary infections. Similarly, a social media post claiming baking soda can cure UTIs is also false.

Is drinking water enough to prevent UTIs?

Yes, but it’s not enough on its own. Staying hydrated helps flush bacteria from the urinary tract, but it won’t cure a UTI once the infection has developed. Scientific evidence highlights that drinking water is helpful as a preventive measure, not a treatment. Some UTIs may resolve on their own. A 2014 study found that 25% to 50% of mild UTIs clear up within a week without antibiotics, as the immune system fights the infection. However, the body can only handle mild cases. For those that don’t resolve on their own, antibiotics remain the standard treatment.

Can honey kill UTI-causing bacteria?

Not really. While Manuka honey is known for its antibacterial properties and is effective in treating wound infections, it also shows activity against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, as noted in a 2020 study. A 2015 lab study demonstrated honey’s ability to inhibit UTI-causing bacteria like E. coli and P. mirabilis. However, health experts agree that diet alone cannot treat UTIs. Maintaining a healthy diet during a UTI may help manage symptoms, but it is not a cure.