Cranberries are an antioxidant-rich fruit that has been used as an alternative remedy to several health conditions, including the treatment and prevention of urinary tract infections. Instead of drinking cranberry juice, cranberry extract is available in pill form and sold over-the-counter in supplement form. Speak to your doctor before using any type of supplement to prevent or treat a medical condition.
Urinary Tract Infections
It has been proven that cranberry is helpful at reducing the possibility of recurrent urinary tract infections in certain populations. According to a 2009 study conducted at the University of Sydney in Australia, cranberry products were most successful at preventing urinary tract infections in women, more so than in men and the elderly. During the study, both cranberry pills and juice were given to test subjects. Both products were effective at reducing incidences of the infections.
H. Pylori Bacteria
The bacteria H.pylori causes ulcers by attaching to the walls of the stomach. Stomach ulcers produce uncomfortable symptoms such as appetite reduction, pain in the abdomen and weight loss. According to a 2000 study found in the "FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology" journal, when a person consumed cranberry, the cells from the bacteria were less likely to adhere to the walls of the stomach.
Heart Disease
Cranberry pills typically contain a concentrated amount of the same phytochemicals found in the juice of the fruit. According to a 2007 report in the journal "Nutrition Reviews," the phytochemicals in cranberry has been associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease in adults. Effects of regular consumption of cranberry include lower cholesterol levels and reduced blood pressure.
Considerations
Keep mind that taking cranberry pills are more for preventative purposes than for treatment of a disorder. Once the bacteria is present, you must seek treatment through a physician. Antibiotics are typically used as a treatment method for medical conditions like a urinary tract infection. Attempting to treat an infection with cranberry pills will likely worsen your condition.
References
- The Cochrane Library; Cranberries for preventing urinary tract infections; Ruth G Jepson et al; 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Cranberry
- "FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology;" A high molecular mass constituent of cranberry juice inhibits helicobacter pylori adhesion to human gastric mucus; O Burger et al; December 2000
- "Nutrition Reviews;" Cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon) and cardiovascular disease risk factors; DL McKay et al; November 2007
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