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Information on Cranberry Juice Treatment of UTIs

A urinary tract infection (UTI) can occur in any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. Although generally treated with a prescribed antibiotic, UTIs may be treated with natural remedies, including cranberry juice, that may also aid in prevention.

  1. Causes of UTIs

    • Urinary tract infections are most commonly caused by the E. coli bacteria. An infection occurs when bacteria is introduced into the urinary tract from an outside source. A urinalysis and culture conducted by a doctor can determine if bacteria is present in urine, which is usually sterile.

    Cranberry Juice Treatment

    • Cranberry juice is believed to be an effective treatment for UTIs based on two separate theories. One theory states that the acids in the cranberries kill the infection-causing bacteria responsible for UTIs. The second theory addresses the existence of a chemical in cranberries that forces bacteria in the urinary tract to release its hold on the urinary lining.

    Expert Insight

    • Rutgers University research scientist Amy B. Howell has found that consuming cranberry juice prevents bacteria from attaching to the urinary tract, thereby preventing or treating a urinary tract infection.

    Potential

    • According to the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), regularly consuming cranberry can aid in treating UTIs by protecting you against antibiotic-resistant bacteria known to cause this type of infection.

    Considerations

    • There are no clear specifications as to how much cranberry juice you should drink to treat a UTI. Women participating in a JAMA study focusing on the effectiveness of cranberry juice as a UTI treatment consumed at least 10 ounces. Sugar-free cranberry juice offers the same health benefits as the sweetened version.

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