Why is cranberry juice good for your urinary tract

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Updated visitor guidelines. Top of the page. Cranberry Juice and Urinary Tract Infections. Topic Overview For years, people have used cranberry juice to prevent and help cure urinary tract infections UTIs. References Citations Jepson RG, et al.

Cranberries for preventing urinary tract infections. Symptoms can include pelvic pain near your groin, urgent and frequent urination , a burning sensation when you pee, or lower back pain. Cranberry juice, extracts and supplements are often recommended to prevent or cure UTIs. In theory, this could proactively stop UTIs from happening or help you recover from one faster. But studies have found the benefits to be mixed.

As a result, the researchers propose using probiotics as a safe alternative to antibiotics in the treatment of UTIs. Boone points out that there are many benefits of probiotics, although more research is still needed. Our Knowledge Center article features more information about the health benefits of cranberries. Medical News Today has previously reported on research suggesting that painkillers may help to prevent UTIs.

Emphysematous cystitis is a rare urinary tract infection that causes gas to build up, resulting in pain. Early diagnosis is important, but it can be…. A bladder infection can cause various symptoms, including a frequent and urgent need to urinate. Learn more about the symptoms and how they vary…. People experiencing a burning sensation in the lower abdomen may have a condition of the digestive, urological, or gynecological tract. Learn more…. A urinary tract infection UTI can occur in the kidneys, bladder, ureters, or urethra, and it can move from one part of the tract to another.

The women in the cranberry group experienced a total of 39 diagnosed UTIs, while the women in the placebo group experienced a total of 67 diagnosed UTIs 5. Cranberry supplement dosing varies depending on the ingredients. Research has shown that doses of cranberry extract ranging from — mg per day may reduce UTI recurrence in some people Although some evidence does suggest cranberry may help prevent UTIs from coming back in some people, other treatments may be more effective and appropriate.

Dosing recommendations vary depending on the type of cranberry product. Some research suggests that a dose of cranberry juice of 8—10 ounces — mL per day may reduce UTI recurrence in some people.

If you get frequent UTIs and are interested in natural ways to prevent them from coming back, try out some of these evidence-based tips:. If you think you have a UTI, see a healthcare professional. UTIs can become serious life threatening infections. If you get frequent UTIs, work with a trusted healthcare professional to come up with a treatment plan based on your specific health needs. Some natural tips for UTI prevention include staying hydrated, wiping front to back, cutting back on certain foods and beverages, engaging in physical activity, and maintaining a healthy body weight.

Research shows that cranberry products like cranberry juice and cranberry extract supplements may reduce the risk of UTI recurrence in some people.

If you get frequent UTIs and want to prevent them from coming back, work with your healthcare professional to come up with a plan, which may include taking supplements and other lifestyle modifications.

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