Bladder infections, or urinary tract infections, are a common medical condition. Unfortunately, when you have this type of infection, it is best to see a doctor. There are many myths and self-help cures for bladder infections that may do little to fight the bacteria that is causing the problem in your urinary system. This can lead to a more serious infection. It is important to contact your doctor if you are having signs of a bladder infection and consult him on the proper use of cranberry as a preventative supplement.
Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are more common in women than in men. There are a number of risk factors for having a UTI such as diabetes, pregnancy, multiple sex partners, E. coli, the use of irritants such as harsh soaps, birth control pills and antibiotics. Some symptoms include burning on urination, frequent urination, urgent urination, urine with blood or pus, abdominal cramping, fever, nausea, vomiting and fatigue. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, 30 to 40 percent of UTIs will recur after an initial treatment run of antibiotics. This is why alternative treatments are often sought, such as cranberry juice.
Evidence for Cranberries
There is statistical evidence for the efficacy of cranberries in the prevention of UTIs. According to New York University, a one-year study showed that both cranberry juice and cranberry tablets taken three times per day reduced the incidence of bladder infections. In a study published in the "Journal of the American Medical Association" that followed 153 women with chronic asymptomatic bladder infections, a cranberry juice cocktail was given for the treatment of infection. The women's only symptoms were white blood cells and bacteria in their urine. As a result, the study showed a 58 percent decrease in the amount of bacteria and white blood cells in the urine. Another year-long study showed similar statistically significant results supporting cranberries for preventing UTIs, but there was a high rate of participant drop out. However, there are some studies that show no benefit at all from taking cranberry juice or supplements.
Myths about Cranberries
Approach cranberries like any other supplement or medication. Do not take them unless you understand how they are supposed to affect your body. There are many myths about how to use cranberries to fight bladder infections. According to Dr. Donnica Moore, you cannot just drink cranberry juice when you notice signs of a bladder infection and expect it to cure the problem. Infection requires an antibiotic. Cranberry juice can help with the prevention of UTIs and cannot fight bacteria. Instead, see your doctor if you are experiencing the symptoms of infection and take the full course prescribed to you.
How to Benefit from Cranberries
To benefit from cranberries, take them as a supplement like any other medication. According to Dr. Donnica Moore, it is a myth that you can prevent bladder infections by merely drinking one glass of juice per day. You need to drink 6 oz. twice per day to get the full benefit. Be sure that the juice is pure cranberry juice and not juice cocktail, or you will get a weaker version of the drink. Fortunately, you can also take cranberry supplements twice a day to get the same bladder protective effects without the need for the juice.
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