The bladder is part of the urinary tract, along with both kidneys and the tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder. When an infection occurs in the bladder, it can spread to other parts of the urinary tract, making it essential to treat the infection as soon as symptoms appear. Since bacteria cause most bladder infections, you may need antibiotics. Cranberry cocktail can be part of a doctor-recommended treatment plan for reducing the symptoms of infection and for reducing the risk of recurring bladder infections.
Cranberry
The cranberry bush, native to wetlands regions in parts of North America, produces the smooth round, red berries that add tartness to fall and winter holiday dishes. Cranberries are high in vitamin C and antioxidants, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Cranberry cocktail is readily available in grocery stores.
Effects on Bladder Infection
Juice extracted from cranberries may prevent bacteria from adhering to lining of the urinary tract to prevent an infection from developing, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. Drinking cranberry cocktail, in addition to drinking plenty of water and other clear liquids, will increase urinary flow, which helps flush bacteria out of the urinary tract.
Administration
Cranberry cocktail contains more water than pure cranberry juice and it may contain sugar or artificial sweeteners. UMMC suggest an adult dose of 10 ounces of cranberry cocktail per day for treating urinary tract infections. If you prefer, you can substitute 3 ounces of undiluted cranberry juice or 1.5 ounces of whole cranberries for the 10 ounces of cranberry cocktail. There is no suggested dosage for children.
Considerations
While cranberry cocktail may help heal a bladder infection, it cannot take the place of professional medical advice or antibiotics. Without treatment, a bacterial infection in the bladder can spread to the kidneys.
As a food source, cranberries and cranberry cocktail are safe for most people, but the presence of oxlates in the juice might increase the risk of developing kidney stones. In addition, cranberry juice might interfere with medications used to thin the blood. Diabetics and people with other blood sugar disorders should not drink cranberry cocktail sweetened with sugar. Make an appointment to see your doctor if you develop bladder infection symptoms, and ask your doctor if cranberry cocktail is right for you.
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