Baltimore, MD
A 20-year-old female asked:
Should urine be more acidic or alkaline to prevent/aid healing a urinary tract infection? i've heard very mixed answers. does vit. c raise or lower ph
2 doctor answers • 2 doctors weighed in
Dr. Keshab Paudelanswered
Internal Medicine 21 years experience
Acidic: Normally urine PH should be acidic (6.8) to prevent infection. Vitamin C is an acidic food but I am not sure if this plays enough role to increase or decrease the PH. Please see a doctor.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
3.8k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Dr. Michael Michaelsanswered
Urology 55 years experience
Acid: 80% of uncomplicated UTIs are due to E.coli.Urine has nitrates(from diet &produced naturally in body).Bacteria with nitrate reductase activity(eg:E.coli)convert nitrates to nitrites.At acid ph(low,eg:5-5)nitrites are converted to nitric oxides which are toxic to bacteria.So Vit.C(ascorbic acid)lowers ph.Dose is 75mg daily for female,90mg.for male.No space to discuss other type of UTIs.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
3.8k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Oct 4, 2020
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $44!
50% off with $19/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.