Cranberry prevents UTIs, systematic review shows

Cranberry prevents UTIs, systematic review shows


Swigged between classes at college, tucked away in the back of a fridge, and often recommended by a friend of a friend, cranberry juice has long been an alleged silver bullet for women looking to stave off or treat urinary tract infections.

Now, a global study published in Cochrane Reviews is bringing data to back the popular home remedy.

Researchers determined that both cranberry juice and its supplements can reduce the risk of repeat symptomatic UTIs in women by more than 25%.

In children, cranberry juice and supplements can reduce the risk by more than half, as well as in patients susceptible to UTIs after receiving medical interventions.

The researchers looked at several studies to determine the benefits of cranberry juice and supplements. Most compared cranberry products with a placebo or no UTI treatment. Specifically, the majority of the study findings determined that having a glass of cranberry juice or taking cranberry capsules reduced the number of UTIs in women who had recurring cases, in children and in people susceptible to them following medical treatments like bladder radiotherapy.

Notably, the study found that cranberry juice or products cause few, if any, side effects, making it a reasonable option for many.

A garden variety UTI is associated with minimal to moderate discomfort, and typically includes symptoms like burning while urinating, pelvic pain and occasional signs of blood. However, recurrent UTIs can be associated with increased pain and kidney damage.

Which is to say … when in doubt, reach for the readily available, over-the-counter cranberry juice.

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