HEALTH – Bladder Bliss: Natural Ways to Prevent and Soothe Cystitis

For personalised advice on bladder health and natural remedies, visit Jay Thankey at Natural Health, 339 Ballards Lane, North Finchley, or call 020 8445 4397.


When Your Bladder Fights Back

A bacterial bladder infection like cystitis can be uncomfortable and disruptive. Symptoms often include:

  • A constant urge to pee (even when there’s little there)
  • A painful, burning sensation when passing urine
  • Pressure or pain in the lower abdomen or back
  • Cloudy, dark, or strong-smelling urine
  • Feeling generally unwell, tired, or feverish

If these sound familiar, your bladder may be calling out for some extra care — naturally.


Feed Your Bladder Well

A healthy bladder starts with what you eat. While cranberries have long had their moment in the spotlight, there’s more to the story.

Load Up on Greens

Spinach, kale, and broccoli are packed with nutrients that strengthen your immune system and help your body fight off infection. Aim for five portions of greens a day to keep your bladder (and the rest of you) in fighting form.

Add Colour with Fruit

Two portions of fresh fruit daily provide antioxidants that support your body’s natural defences.


Cranberries: Friend or Foe?

Cranberries can help stop bacteria from clinging to the bladder wall — but not all cranberry juices are equal.
Sweetened varieties can actually feed bacteria, and their acidity may irritate your bladder.

For a more effective option, try Biotta Mountain Cranberry Juice. It’s naturally strong, unsweetened, and made from handpicked wild mountain cranberries — rich in phytonutrients that help support urinary health.


Probiotics: The Good Bacteria Brigade

Balance is key when it comes to bacteria.
Plain natural yoghurt is full of probiotics that keep harmful bacteria in check. Other good sources include tempeh, kefir, miso, and sauerkraut.

To give these friendly microbes a boost, try a postbiotic such as Molkosan Original. It contains L+ lactic acid, creating the perfect environment for beneficial bacteria to thrive. Simply mix a teaspoon into a glass of water daily.


Hydrate for Health

One of the simplest ways to prevent infection is also the most effective: drink more water.
Water dilutes your urine, making it less acidic and helping to flush bacteria out before they multiply.
Aim for at least 2 litres of still water a day.


Skip the Irritants

During an infection, steer clear of caffeine and alcohol. Both irritate the bladder, worsen symptoms, and slow recovery.


Nature’s Remedies for Cystitis

For targeted natural support, consider Uva-ursi and Echinacea Drops.
This blend combines the infection-fighting and bladder-toning power of Uva-ursi (Bearberry) with Echinacea purpurea, a renowned immune booster.

  • Uva-ursi helps disinfect the bladder, reduce inflammation, and fight E. coli — a common cause of cystitis — without disturbing your body’s friendly bacteria.
  • Echinacea strengthens immune defences, helping your body fight off infection and recover faster.

Take it at the first sign of discomfort to help disinfect the bladder and ease symptoms.


If symptoms persist beyond 7 days, consult your GP or healthcare practitioner to rule out any underlying conditions.