Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the worst. The constant trips to the bathroom, the burning sensation, and the all-around discomfort can leave you desperate for relief. While there’s no true replacement for medical treatment when needed, natural remedies like cranberry juice and matcha green tea can support your body in fighting off a UTI.
Cranberry juice has long been a go-to for urinary health, while matcha green tea is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can give your immune system a boost. Together, they make a refreshing, nutrient-packed drink that’s both delicious and potentially helpful for easing UTI symptoms.
Why cranberry juice and matcha can help with a UTI
Cranberry juice: A urinary health classic
Cranberry juice is famous for its role in urinary health, and for good reason. It contains compounds called proanthocyanidins (PACs) that prevent bacteria - specifically E. coli, the usual culprit behind UTIs - from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract. This makes it harder for infections to take hold or worsen.
It’s important to choose 100% pure cranberry juice without added sugar, as sugary drinks can sometimes exacerbate UTI symptoms.
Matcha green tea: A detoxifying powerhouse
Matcha brings a unique set of benefits to the mix. Its high levels of antioxidants, particularly EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), help reduce inflammation in the body. This is crucial during a UTI, as the infection often leads to inflamed urinary tract tissues. Matcha also has mild diuretic properties, encouraging your body to flush out toxins more effectively.
And let’s not forget its ability to provide gentle energy and calm focus, which might come in handy when a UTI is making you feel less than your best.
Recipe: Iced cranberry-matcha drink to help combat UTI
Here’s a simple, refreshing recipe that combines the best of cranberry juice and matcha green tea. It’s hydrating, delicious, and packed with nutrients to support your recovery.
Ingredients you will need:
- 1 teaspoon matcha green tea powder
- 1/4 cup 100% pure cranberry juice (unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or your preferred milk)
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave (optional, add to taste)
- Ice cubes
Instructions on making your matcha cranberry drink:
- Prepare the matcha: In a small bowl, whisk the matcha powder with cold water until smooth and frothy. If you don’t have a matcha whisk, there are plenty of creative ways to mix your matcha without a whisk.
- Combine the liquids: In a tall glass, pour in the cranberry juice, almond milk, and prepared matcha. Stir gently to mix.
- Sweeten if desired: Add honey or agave for a touch of sweetness, but feel free to skip this step if you prefer a tart drink.
- Add ice: Fill the glass with ice cubes to keep it cool and refreshing.
- Garnish and enjoy: Garnish with a slice of lemon or a few fresh cranberries for extra style points. Sip and feel the soothing effects.
How this matcha cranberry drink supports UTI recovery
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Hydration: Staying hydrated is essential when fighting a UTI. This drink helps you hydrate while delivering additional nutrients that support healing.
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Anti-inflammatory effects: The matcha helps calm inflammation, which can reduce discomfort in the urinary tract.
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Antibacterial properties: Cranberry juice’s proanthocyanidins work to prevent bacteria from clinging to the urinary tract, making it easier for your body to flush them out.
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Detox support: Matcha’s diuretic properties encourage your body to eliminate toxins and bacteria through urine.
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Stress relief: we all feel stressed when we’re sick and not at our best. The L-theanine in matcha green tea is proven to reduce stress and help you relax when you need it most.
A few tips to maximize this UTI fighting drink's results
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Go for quality: Use high-quality matcha powder and 100% pure cranberry juice to ensure you’re getting the full benefits.
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Drink regularly: This isn’t a one-time cure-all. Drinking this mix consistently, alongside plenty of water, can support your recovery.
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Know when to see a doctor: While cranberry juice and matcha can help with mild UTIs, they’re not a replacement for medical treatment if symptoms persist or worsen. Always consult a healthcare professional if needed.
The bottom line
This iced cranberry-matcha drink is more than just a yummy, tart drink - it’s a simple, natural way to support your body during a UTI and also help prevent them one from happening altogether. Packed with the antibacterial power of cranberry juice and the anti-inflammatory benefits of matcha, it’s a hydrating ally in your recovery toolkit. The next time you’re battling a UTI, give this drink a try.
Other matcha recipes you’ll love
8 Ways to Add Matcha To Your Holiday Recipes
Resources:
Howell A. B. (2002). Cranberry proanthocyanidins and the maintenance of urinary tract health. Critical reviews in food science and nutrition, 42(3 Suppl), 273–278. https://doi.org/10.1080/10408390209351915
Jepson, R. G., Williams, G., & Craig, J. C. (2012). Cranberries for preventing urinary tract infections. The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 10(10), CD001321. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD001321.pub5
Kimura, K., Ozeki, M., Juneja, L. R., & Ohira, H. (2007). L-Theanine reduces psychological and physiological stress responses. Biological psychology, 74(1), 39–45. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopsycho.2006.06.006
Kochman, J., Jakubczyk, K., Antoniewicz, J., Mruk, H., & Janda, K. (2020). Health Benefits and Chemical Composition of Matcha Green Tea: A Review. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 26(1), 85. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26010085
