Your urinary tract consists of all of the organs and structures that play a role in collecting urine and removing it from the body. These organs and structures include the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. A urinary tract infection can affect any area of the urinary tract, but usually affects the urethra and the bladder. The "Journal of the American Medical Association" notes that urinary tract infections account for approximately 11 million doctor visits in the United States every year.
Causes
Urinary tract infections occur when bacteria gain access to the urinary tract through the urethra, the structure that allows urine to travel outside of the body. Once inside the body, the bacteria can remain in the urethra, causing a urinary tract infection called urethritis. If the bacteria continue to travel up the urinary tract, they can reach the bladder, causing an infection called cystitis. In some cases, the bacteria continue to travel and cause an infection in the kidneys.
Actions of Cranberry Juice
Cranberry juice can help prevent a urinary tract infection from developing. Cranberries contain a substance that prevents bacteria from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract. If bacteria cannot stick, they cannot multiply and grow. Instead, they will be eliminated from the body in the urine. Cranberry juice also contains vitamin C, which can increase the acidity in the stomach and make it a hostile environment in which bacteria cannot thrive. According to Life Extension, cranberry juice also might act as an antioxidant that can help destroy small amounts of bacteria and treat mild urinary tract infections.
Considerations
Although cranberry juice has been shown to be effective in preventing and treating urinary tract infections, the amount you would have to consume is not realistic for most people. Life Extension notes that several studies have shown that it can take a total 16 8-oz. glasses of cranberry juice daily to have an effect.
Warnings
Cranberry juice should not be used as a treatment for urinary tract infections in the place of regular medical care. If you have a urinary tract infection, you should see your doctor, who might recommend antibiotics. If a urinary tract infection is not treated properly, it can lead to a kidney infection called pyelonephritis that can cause permanent kidney damage.
