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Can cranberry juice treat urinary tract infections?
Urinary tract infection, commonly known as UTI, is a condition in which a person develops an infection in a part of the urinary system. Most urinary tract infections occur in the lower urinary tract; the bladder and the urethra. The condition is common in women and men have a lower risk of developing the condition.
According to Mayo Clinic, it can be painful and annoying if the infection occurs in the bladder. However, if the infection spreads to the kidneys, it can cause serious problems. There are several ways to reduce the risks of urinary tract infections, including drinking enough fluids, consuming cranberry juice, and others.
However, there is much debate about whether cranberry juice can actually help treat a urinary tract infection.
The answer is NO. Cranberry juice cannot treat a urinary tract infection, but it can help prevent the infection. Once you have developed a urinary tract infection, cranberry or its juice may not help much. You will have to visit a doctor to cure the infection.
But if you want to prevent a urinary tract infection, cranberry can be useful for you. Cranberries contain a substance called proanthocyanidins that can prevent bacteria from sticking to the walls of the bladder. This ultimately helps prevent UTIs.
While cranberry juice can be helpful, here are other effective ways to prevent urinary tract infections, according to Mayo Clinic.
- Drink plenty of fluids, especially water: Drinking water helps dilute urine. This will make you have to urinate more often. This allows bacteria to be flushed from the urinary tract before an infection can develop.
- Wipe from front to back: Do this after urinating and after a bowel movement. It helps prevent the spread of bacteria from the anus to the vagina and urethra.
- Empty your bladder shortly after having sex. Also drink a full glass of water to help flush out bacteria.
- Avoid potentially irritating feminine products: Using these products in the genital area can irritate the urethra.
- Change your birth control method: Diaphragms, unlubricated condoms, or condoms treated with spermicide can lead to bacterial growth.
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