Cranberry Juice and UTIs: The Truth Every Woman Should Know

Think cranberry juice cures a UTI? Not quite — but it does have a special role in keeping your bladder healthy.

Let’s get straight to it: if you have an active urinary tract infection (UTI), cranberry juice isn’t going to cure it. You’ll still need a proper course of culture-sensitive antibiotics prescribed by your doctor. But here’s where cranberry shines — prevention.

Cranberries contain powerful compounds called proanthocyanidins. These little heroes make it harder for E. coli, the bacteria most responsible for UTIs, to stick to the bladder wall. When bacteria can’t cling, they get flushed out every time you pee. Cranberries also help make your urine slightly acidic, which discourages bacterial growth.

So while cranberry juice can’t replace antibiotics, it can reduce your chances of getting recurrent infections. Think of it as a bodyguard for your bladder — it doesn’t fight the battle, but it keeps trouble from getting in too often.

A quick tip: cranberry supplements are more effective than juice. Most commercial cranberry juices are loaded with sugar and have fewer active ingredients, which may even worsen infections.

In short — cranberry helps, but it’s not magic. Stay hydrated, empty your bladder regularly, and seek medical care if symptoms like burning, frequent urination, or fever appear.

Stay informed, stay proactive, and remember — prevention is always better than cure.

— Dr. Sandya M R, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynecologist

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