Bladder infection or urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common problem among women. The symptoms of UTI include burning sensation while urinating, frequent urination, and cloudy urine. Cranberry juice is often suggested as a home remedy for bladder infections. But does it really work? Let's find out.
What is Cranberry Juice?
Cranberry juice is made from cranberries, which are small red berries that grow on evergreen shrubs in North America. Cranberries are a rich source of antioxidants and contain compounds called proanthocyanidins, which are believed to prevent bacteria from sticking to the walls of the bladder.
How Does Cranberry Juice Help Bladder Infections?
When bacteria enter the bladder, they attach themselves to the bladder walls and multiply rapidly. This leads to inflammation and irritation of the bladder lining, causing the symptoms of UTI. The proanthocyanidins in cranberry juice prevent the bacteria from sticking to the bladder walls and flush them out of the bladder through urination.
What Does the Research Say?
Several studies have been conducted to determine the effectiveness of cranberry juice in preventing and treating UTI. A review of 24 studies found that cranberry products may reduce the risk of UTI in women with recurrent UTIs. Another study found that cranberry juice may be effective in reducing the number of UTIs in women who have a history of UTIs.
How Much Cranberry Juice Should You Drink?
The recommended dose of cranberry juice for preventing and treating UTIs is 8-16 ounces (240-480 milliliters) per day. It is important to choose unsweetened cranberry juice or cranberry juice concentrate to avoid consuming large amounts of sugar.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Cranberry juice is generally safe for most people. However, consuming large amounts of cranberry juice may cause stomach upset, diarrhea, or kidney stones in some individuals. It is important to consult a healthcare provider before consuming large amounts of cranberry juice if you have a history of kidney stones or are taking blood-thinning medication.
Conclusion
Cranberry juice may be an effective home remedy for preventing and treating bladder infections. The proanthocyanidins in cranberry juice prevent bacteria from sticking to the bladder walls and flush them out of the bladder through urination. However, it is important to consume cranberry juice in moderation and consult a healthcare provider before consuming large amounts of cranberry juice.