What Are The Benefits Of Cranberry Juice For Ulcers?

Ulcers can occur in the stomach, upper small intestines and, in rare cases, the lower esophagus. Modern research on cranberry juice suggests that it might be beneficial for preventing ulcers, but studies are ongoing. If you've been diagnosed with an ulcer, talk to your doctor about using cranberry juice to help treat it or prevent future ulcers.

Ulcers

The bacteria Heliobacter pylori is a common cause of peptic ulcers, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Many people are infected with this bacteria, but not all develop ulcers. In affected people, the bacteria damages the mucous coating of the digestive tract, allowing harsh stomach acid to abrade the area beneath it. Over time, the open sore of an ulcer develops.

Cranberry Benefits

A 2005 study published in the journal "Heliobacter" found that people who drank cranberry juice every day had reduced levels of Heliobacter pylori in their stomachs after 90 days. According to Aurora Health Care, 8 to 16 oz. of pure cranberry juice might be effective in reducing the levels of Heliobacter pylori and preventing ulcers.

Potential Mechanism

The reason cranberry juice might protect against ulcers is likely that the juice prevents Heliobacter pylori from adhering tightly to the stomach wall and causing damage there. When the bacteria detach from the stomach lining, the juices in the stomach can wash them out of the digestive tract. The compounds in cranberry juice responsible for this anti-adhesion activity are probably tannins and proanthocyanidins found only in cranberries and blueberries.

Considerations

Some groups might be more likely to benefit from the use of cranberry juice. In a 2007 study published in "Molecular Nutrition and Food Research," females were far more successful than males when using cranberry juice to get rid of Heliobacter pylori. Patients attempting to use cranberry juice to prevent or treat ulcers should make sure to use 100 percent cranberry juice, not a mixture of juices or artificially sweetened cranberry juice cocktail.

Alternatives

In place of cranberry juice, some people prefer to use cranberry extract in doses of 300 to 400 mg taken twice daily. Other alternatives for treating stomach ulcers include drugs that kill Heliobacter pylori, substances that reduce stomach acid and medication to coat the stomach and protect it from damage. Cranberry juice often can be taken in conjunction with conventional methods of treating a stomach ulcer if done under physician supervision.