4. Urinary Tract and Bladder Infections: What About Cranberry?
Cranberry is one of the best-known natural products associated with urinary tract health. Unlike many sweeping herbal claims, it has been studied specifically for its possible role in preventing recurrent urinary tract infections.
Cranberries contain compounds called proanthocyanidins. Researchers believe these compounds may make it more difficult for certain bacteria to attach to the lining of the urinary tract.
Some research suggests that cranberry products may help reduce the risk of recurrent urinary tract infections in certain groups, including some women who have experienced previous infections. However, the evidence is not uniform.
The critical point is that cranberry products are not a proven treatment for an existing bladder infection. The U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health makes this distinction in its review of cranberry research.
A urinary tract infection may cause burning during urination, a frequent urge to urinate, discomfort in the lower abdomen, or cloudy urine. These symptoms deserve attention rather than an experiment with unproven remedies.
