Frequent urination can have one of several causes, including a urinary tract infection, diabetes, bladder or kidney problems, or pregnancy. If you have sudden frequent or painful urination, see your doctor to see if you have a potentially serious health problem. In some cases, drinking cranberry juice may stave off a urinary tract infection, but it could also exacerbate other kidney-related problems. Talk to your doctor before trying any herbal or home remedies.
Urinary Tract Infections
According to Medline Plus, drinking cranberry juice may prevent urinary tract infections, or UTIs, which are a common cause of frequent urination. Cranberry juice may prevent a UTI because it can prevent bacteria from sticking to the walls of the bladder and urinary tract. This method of preventing infection may be especially effective for older women, pregnant women and hospital patients. While cranberry juice may prevent a UTI, it probably cannot treat one; it is ineffective against bacteria that is already stuck to the bladder walls.
Diabetes
Another cause of frequent urination is diabetes. If you find yourself excessively thirsty and also urinating much more than normal, see your doctor promptly for a diabetes screening. Other symptoms of diabetes include unintentional weight loss, blurry vision and fatigue. Cranberry juice has not been proven to lower blood sugar or treat diabetes. It also may contain added sugar or other sweeteners, which may negatively affect your diabetes. If you want to drink cranberry juice and you have diabetes, look for a brand that is sweetened with artificial sweeteners.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy may cause frequent urination due to the the enlarged uterus pressing on the bladder. While cranberry juice will not prevent or treat increased urination due to pregnancy, it may help prevent a UTI. Cranberry juice is safe to drink during pregnancy, but cranberry supplements may not be. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking any herbal remedies or supplements.
Kidney Stones
Cranberry juice contains oxalate, a chemical that can cause kidney stones. Drinking large amounts of cranberry juice may make it more likely that you will develop this painful condition. Kidney stones can cause more frequent urination, along with pain in the abdomen or back, nausea and vomiting. You may also see blood in your urine. If you have had kidney stones in the past, talk to your doctor about whether drinking cranberry juice will raise your risk of developing them in the future.
References
- FamilyDoctor; Painful Urination; January 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Frequent or Urgent Urination; Scott M. Gilbert, M.D.; May 22, 2008
- Medline Plus; Cranberry; Feb. 24, 2011
- National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse; Kidney Stones in Adults; October 2007
- MayoClinic; Diabetes; March 9, 2011
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