As temperatures plummet and cold waves strike, while you bundle up to stay warm, have you overlooked another part of your body that needs care—the urinary system? Winter is a high-incidence period for urinary system issues such as urinary tract infections and prostatitis. How can you provide a "protective layer" for your urinary system and ensure a safe and healthy winter? This maintenance guide offers a detailed explanation.
Why is the urinary system more vulnerable in winter
1. Reduced water intake: In cold weather, sweating decreases, and the sensation of thirst is less noticeable, leading people to unconsciously reduce their water consumption. This directly results in decreased urine output and concentrated urine, weakening the "flushing" effect on the urinary tract and making it easier for bacteria to grow and linger.
2. Low temperature stimulation: Cold can cause the contraction of blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the kidneys and bladder, affecting their blood supply and function. For men, cold may also exacerbate congestion and edema of the prostate, triggering or worsening prostate discomfort.
3. Habitual Urine Retention: In winter, many people choose to "hold it in" even when they feel the urge to urinate, whether they are nestled in a warm bed or working in the office. Holding urine can cause the bladder to become overfilled, increasing pressure and damaging the bladder muscles, while also providing a breeding ground for bacteria.
Scientific Maintenance Keep in Mind Four Key Points
1. Drink water proactively to ensure "running water does not go stale"
This is the most fundamental, simple, and effective method. Do not wait until you are thirsty to drink water; instead, develop the habit of drinking water proactively at regular intervals. Ensure a daily water intake of approximately 1500-2000 milliliters (about 8 glasses of water) to keep urine clear and pale yellow. Sufficient urine production continuously flushes the urinary tract, expelling small amounts of bacteria and effectively preventing infections.
2. Keep warm and protect the waist and abdomen
Keeping the lower body warm is crucial. Pay special attention to keeping the waist, abdomen, and feet warm to avoid catching a chill. It is recommended to wear long coats or use waist protectors to prevent cold from invading the kidneys and bladder. Soaking feet in warm water before bed can promote blood circulation throughout the body and help improve blood supply to the urinary system.
3. Do not hold back urine, relieve it as soon as you feel the urge.
When you feel the urge to urinate, empty your bladder promptly and avoid holding it in for extended periods. It is advisable to use the restroom before going out or going to bed. For office workers who need to sit for long periods, set reminders to stand up and move around every hour, taking the opportunity to urinate and prevent urine from staying in the bladder for too long.
4. Maintain a balanced diet to boost immunity
In winter, it is advisable to maintain a light diet and consume more fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins, such as blueberries and broccoli, to enhance the body's resistance. Reduce the intake of spicy, greasy, and overly sweet foods, as these may irritate the urinary tract and worsen inflammation. It is also beneficial to drink some cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened), as studies have shown that its components help inhibit bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract.
Special reminder:If symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, dysuria, or lower back pain occur, do not self-medicate. Seek medical attention promptly and undergo standardized treatment after a clear diagnosis.
In summary, the key to maintaining the urinary system in winter lies in prevention and nourishment. By actively drinking water, keeping warm, avoiding holding urine, and maintaining a healthy diet, we can build a solid firewall for the urinary system, ensuring a safe and comfortable winter.
