CRANBERRIES AND URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS

Cranberries promote urinary tract health = decreases urinary tract infections (UTI's) AKA bladder infections

Cranberries are probably best known for Thanksgiving dinner in the US, but MEDICALLY for their ability to reduce the incidence of urinary tract infections, a painful condition that affects six out of every ten American women. Contrary to popular belief, it isn't the acidity that protects, but the bacteria-blocking compounds found in the fruit.

According to the Cranberry Institute (now, I just hate research coming from the very institution that will benefit from good positive results, so this is an example of who NOT to believe, but it is true anyway!) researchers found that distinct flavonoids in the cranberry, known as proanthrocyanidins (practice that word and throw it around tomorrow - impress your co-workers!) irreversibly inhibit certain bacteria from adhering to urinary tract cells and causing infection.

Cranberry juice or pills should be taken at the onset of the slightest symptom, and then daily or every other day as maintenance. Drinking lots of fluids helps, too. And, of course, call a health provider if you have a bladder infection, because if left untreated it could become a more serious kidney infection, requiring extensive treatment.

Lynne Fiore, NP

 

 

 
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