How Does Cranberry Juice Aid With Bladder Problems?

Drinking cranberry juice may or may not be useful in the prevention or treatment of common bladder problems such as urinary tract infections, cystitis and noninfectious cystitis. According to a December 2010 evidence-based monograph on cranberries published by the Mayo Clinic, strong research evidence is lacking. Before you grab a glass of this tart, red juice, consider the facts surrounding cranberry juice and its relationship to bladder health and consult your physician for further advice.

UTIs

Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, occur in any of the organs associated with the urinary tract, including the bladder, kidneys, ureters and urethra. Bacteria, commonly Escherichia coli, or E. coli, enter the urethra, travel to the bladder and attach to the bladder wall. The body usually rids itself of these bacteria. However, certain conditions increase the likelihood of an infection, such as urinary retention, pregnancy, menopause, enlarged prostate, bowel incontinence, kidney stones and diabetes. Women are more prone than men because of a shorter urethra and its proximity to the anus. Mild UTIs are treated with antibiotics and increasing fluid intake. Prevention of UTIs through diet includes drinking 2 to 4 qt. of fluid each day, which may include cranberry juice, and avoid alcohol and caffeine.

Noninfectious Cystitis

Noninfectious cystitis is the most common bladder problem found in women, infants and the elderly, according to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Its cause is unknown. Individuals who have a history of severe or repeated bladder infections -- as well as those who take frequent bubble baths or use feminine hygiene sprays, sanitary napkins and spermicidal jellies -- are more prone to the problem. Noninfectious cystitis may be a side effect of pelvic radiation and some chemotherapy regimens. Tomatoes, artificial sweeteners, citrus juices, and caffeinated and alcoholic beverages are possible bladder irritants to avoid.

Interstitial Cystitis

Chronic, painful inflammation of the bladder wall is termed interstitial cystitis, or IC. The cause of IC is unknown and often misdiagnosed as a urinary tract infection. It commonly occurs in individuals between the ages of 30 and 40 years. Women are 10 times more likely to develop IC than men. Treatment is based on individual responses to modalities. Bladder training, medications, physical therapy, diet modification and surgery have all been used successfully. The theory behind diet modification is avoidance of any food that may cause bladder irritation. The Interstitial Cystitis Association lists cranberry juice as a food item to avoid.

Cranberry's Role

Cranberries contain several classes of flavonoids, including flavonols, proanthocyanidins and anthocyanins. These compounds have powerful antioxidant properties that protect cells from oxidative and inflammatory damage. According to a report in the August 2009 Tufts University Health Letter, it is A-type proanthocyanidin in cranberries that attaches to the E. coli bacteria, preventing them from adhering to the bladder wall. Once E. coli bacterium attaches, it multiplies. A study published January 2011 in the journal "Clinical Infectious Disease" found that cranberry juice did not prevent recurrence of UTIs in college-age women. If an infection is present, treatment with an antibiotic is preferred. Untreated or recurring infections may lead to more serious health problems, such as a kidney infection.