Can Yogurt Cure a Bladder Infection?

Bladder infections, otherwise known as Cystitis or Urinary Tract Infections, are caused by a bacterium called Escherichia coli, which is normally found in the intestines. Men can develop a bladder infection, especially if they have an enlarged prostate, but the problem strikes mainly women and can be caused by bacteria that migrates from the stool.

Signs and symptoms of a bladder infection

• It is recommended to first see a doctor to have tests done to ensure that a bladder infection is present. Some signs and symptoms of a bladder infection include:
  Frequent and often painful urination
  An increased urge to urinate and empty the bladder, but even after doing so, there is still an urge to urinate
  A stinging and burning sensation when urinating
  Abdominal pain above the bladder
  Low back pain
  Blood in the urine (sometimes)
  Low fever. Chills. Vomiting
  Strong, unpleasant, foul-smelling urine
  Urine appears cloudy
  Painful sexual intercourse
  Lack of urinary control, such as bed wetting

Preventing a bladder infection

• According to curepages.com, eating massive amounts of yogurt will not cure a bladder infection, but it could help prevent them from returning. Yogurt contains probiotics called Acidophilus Bifidus, which are tiny live organisms, or "good" bacteria, that prevent unfriendly bacteria from establishing themselves in the bladder. Along with eating yogurt, drinking fresh juices, either freshly squeezed or from concentrate, with no added sweeteners, can help in preventing future bladder infections. When purchasing yogurt, be sure to check the label to ensure that it contains live cultures.
  Drink a minimum of eight glasses of water a day to flush out bacteria and avoid caffeine, as it irritates the bladder.
  Avoid postponing urination; use the bathroom as soon as the need presents itself and wipe from front to back. This helps prevent bacteria from spreading from the anal region to the vagina and urethra.