According to Dr. Darren M. Lynch of Northampton Wellness Associates in Northampton, Massachusetts, cranberry juice and cranberry extract may prevent urinary tract infections. This is especially true in older women, and those who may have an increased risk for developing urinary tract infections. Cranberry is not effective for treating existing infection. Before taking any herbal supplement, check with your doctor.
Dosage
To prevent urinary tract infections, drink three 8 oz. glasses of pure unsweetened cranberry juice each day. If you prefer, you can take 300 to 400 mg of concentrated cranberry extract twice daily. Drinking cranberry juice cocktail does not have the same effect as drinking pure cranberry juice. If you prefer to eat fresh or frozen cranberries, eat 1.5 oz daily. Do not give pure cranberry juice or cranberry extract to a child without medical supervision, as there is not enough evidence to determine a safe dosage for children.
Considerations
Because pure cranberry juice is sour, many companies mix it with apple or pear juice, or add sugar or other sweeteners. Look for a brand that is as pure as possible for the best results in preventing urinary tract infections. If you are diabetic, be sure to choose a brand with no added sweeteners or with artificial sweeteners.
Along with taking cranberry, you can also prevent urinary tract infections by drinking a lot of water throughout the day. Use the bathroom when you feel the urge instead of holding your urine, as this can encourage the growth of bacteria. Women should wipe from front to back after using the bathroom.
Warnings
As with any medication or herb, cranberry extract and pure cranberry juice can have unwanted side effects. Talk to your doctor about any medications you are currently on, as well as any health issues you have, before taking this or any other herbal remedy. According to the Mayo Clinic, cranberry juice may interact with warfarin, a blood-thinning medication. It can also cause kidney stones in people susceptible to them.
UTI Symptoms
You may develop a urinary tract infection despite taking the recommended dosage of cranberry juice. There is no harm in continuing to take the juice while you have an infection, but it will not cure your symptoms. These symptoms include an urgent need for frequent urination, a burning sensation upon urinating, urine leakage and cloudy or bloody urine. If you notice these symptoms, see a doctor as soon as possible, as you may need an antibiotic for treatment.
References
- American Family Physician; Cranberry for Prevention of Urinary Tract Infections; Darren M. Lynch, M.D.; Dec. 1, 2004
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Cranberry; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; Nov. 17, 2008
- Mayo Clinic; Urinary Tract Infection; June 26, 2010
- FamilyDoctor.org; Urinary Tract Infections in Women; August 2010
