As of the date of publication, no research supports a link between drinking cranberry juice and symptoms of depression. However, drinking cranberry juice might help prevent urinary tract infections, reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and might have potential in some types of cancer treatments. Depression is a complex, multi-faceted disease whose origins are difficult to trace. If you suffer from depression, consult your doctor about making evidence-based dietary changes that might better support your treatment goals.
Uses of Cranberry Juice
Cranberry juice has many possible medicinal uses, but most are still under investigation. According to Drugs.com, it has been found to help prevent urinary tract infections, but not cure them. Cranberries also contain antioxidants, thanks in part to its proanthocyanidin content, which contributes to the fruit's bright color. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, which can damage cells and lead to cancer. The phytochemicals present in cranberries are under investigation as a cancer treatment. The polyphenolic component in cranberry juice might help reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease. Additionally, cranberries may play a role in managing symptoms of diabetes, prevent ulcers and treat gastrointestinal problems. They are rich source of vitamin C.
Diet and Depression
The only certain role cranberry juice might play in mitigating depressive symptoms is as part of a well-balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy oils. Omega-3 fatty acids might help mitigate symptoms of depression in some people. Omega-3s are found in high concentrations in cold-water fish, such as sardines, anchovies and salmon. Herbs with potential to positively impact a depression treatment plan include St. John's wort. Do not begin a dietary or herbal regimen to treat depressive symptoms without consulting your doctor.
Risks
Drinking more than 3 to 4 liters of cranberry juice each day could lead to diarrhea. Cranberry tablets might create favorable conditions for the formation of calcium oxalate stones in some people. Read the ingredients list on your cranberry juice carefully. Do not buy products that contain sweeteners, such as high fructose corn syrup, which add calories without nutrition. Additionally, do not take cranberries if you take the blood thinner warfarin; the combination may lead to a deleterious effect.
Going without treatment for depression carries serious risks, including death. Do not substitute dietary experimentation for a doctor's care.
Folklore
If you associate cranberry juice and depression, it might be because of the rich, if not scientifically founded, folklore surrounding its medicinal uses. Some eastern European cultures use cranberries to reduce fevers and treat cancers. Sailors used cranberries to prevent scurvy. American Indians used cranberry juice to treat bladder and kidney problems. They also used the berries to treat blood poisoning and wounds. Early American settlers used the berry to treat appetite loss and blood disorders. Other unfounded applications have included treatment for gout, rheumatism, constipation and skin infections.
References
- Encyclopedia.com; Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine; Cranberry; Samuel Uretsky; 2005
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Cranberry
- Drugs.com: Cranberry
- MayoClinic.com; Depression and Diet; David Mrazek, M.D.; October 2009
- Helpguide.org; Dealing with Depression; Melinda Smith, M.A., Joanna Saisan, Robert Segal, M.A. and Jeanne Segal, Ph.D.; June 2011
- "American Family Physician"; St. John's Wort for Depression; Wail Malaty, M.D.; April 2005
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