A urinary tract infection, or UTI, may develop in any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder or urethra, but it occurs most often in the bladder. Women are at higher risk for UTIs than men. Cranberries and cranberry juice have properties that may help you avoid developing a UTI.
Identification
Cranberries are native to the U.S. and were used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes, including treating kidney disease. Early colonists also used them for many ailments. The berries are very high in vitamin C and, because of this, they have strong antioxidant properties. They also contain compounds called proanthocyanidins, which give them their red color and also act as antioxidants. Antioxidants remove free radicals, byproducts of metabolism that may injure cell membranes and disrupt DNA.
Function
Cranberries and cranberry juice help prevent UTIs through their negative effect on bacteria. It was first thought that cranberries kill bacteria by acidifying urine, but this has been disproved. Rather, cranberries prevent bacteria from attaching to the lining cells of the urinary tract. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM, recommends use of cranberry juice to prevent these infections, particularly in women who experience them often. Cranberries may also help control infections that are ongoing, but this possibility needs further study.
Other Benefits
Cranberries may also have negative effects on other bacteria, including those that cause ulcers, according to NCCAM. They may also improve oral hygiene by preventing bacteria from attaching to the gums and the lining of the mouth. Their antioxidant property may help lower blood levels of cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease. These additional, potential benefits of cranberries are still in need of more research.
Recommendations and Precautions
Both cranberries and cranberry juice are easily found at grocery stores. Consume 3 oz. or more of pure juice daily, or 10 oz. of cranberry juice cocktail, which is more dilute. Concentrated cranberry extract is also available in capsule form, usually with 300 or 400 mg in each capsule. The recommended amount is 6 capsules daily in divided doses. Cranberry juice and supplements are safe and free of side effects. However, cranberries are high in oxalate, a compound that may increase the risk of kidney stones in some people. Consult your doctor to determine if consuming cranberries, their juice, or cranberry supplements is a good choice for you.
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