This is the story of the old woman who has divided opinion for decades.
Cranberry juice may actually help stop urinary tract infections (UTIs), according to the largest review of evidence yet.
A worldwide study of the benefits of cranberries found that cranberries—in juice or supplement form—cut the risk of recurrent UTIs in women by more than a quarter.
According to the large review, children and people prone to infections after medical procedures had a 53 percent reduced risk.
Researchers found they were not effective in older people, pregnant women or people with bladder problems.
A worldwide study of the benefits of cranberries found that cranberries—in juice or supplement form—cut the risk of recurrent UTIs in women by more than a quarter. Children and people prone to infection after medical procedures had a 53 percent chance of reduction, according to a large review
Experts believe this is due to their high concentration of the antioxidant proanthocyanidin, which prevents the most common UTI-causing bacteria – Escherichia coli (E.coli) – from sticking to the bladder wall.
Researchers from Flinders University, Australia, examined 50 recent studies involving nearly 9,000 participants in the latest review, published in Cochrane.
Professor Jonathan Craig of Flinders University said: “This is a review of the body of evidence and as new evidence emerges, new insights may emerge.
“In this case, the new evidence shows a very positive finding that cranberry juice can prevent UTIs in susceptible individuals.”
UTIs are common and can affect the urinary tract, bladder and kidneys, with symptoms such as burning when you urinate and an increased need to urinate.
They are often treated with a short course of antibiotics, although this is not always necessary.
The researchers cautioned that the berries will not cure an established UTI, so anyone who gets one should seek help from a family doctor or pharmacist.
Dr Gabrielle Williams, who led the study, said: “UTIs are terrible and very common – around a third of women get them, as do many older people and also people with bladder problems due to spinal cord injuries or other conditions.
“Even in 1973 my mother was told to try cranberry juice to prevent her horrible and frequent urinary tract infections and for her it was a lifesaver.
“Despite my complaining in her ear about evidence, she continued to take it daily, first as a rough sour juice and in recent years as easy-to-swallow capsules. As soon as it stops, the symptoms return.
“As usual, it turns out Mom was right! Cranberry products may help some women avoid UTIs.”
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Crystal Leahy is an author and health journalist who writes for The Fashion Vibes. With a background in health and wellness, Crystal has a passion for helping people live their best lives through healthy habits and lifestyles.
