Home/Remedies/Kidney & Urinary Health/Cranberry UTI Prevention Drink

Cranberry UTI Prevention Drink

Proanthocyanidin protection for urinary tract

Strong evidence

Category: Kidney & Urinary Health

Herbs in this remedy

About this remedy

Cranberry proanthocyanidins (PACs) prevent E. coli bacteria from adhering to urinary tract walls, reducing infection risk. A Cochrane review of 24 studies found cranberry products significantly reduced the risk of symptomatic UTIs, particularly in women with recurrent infections.

Preparation

Mix 8 oz unsweetened cranberry juice with water and a squeeze of lemon. Sweeten with a small amount of honey if needed. Avoid sweetened cranberry cocktails which contain excessive sugar.

Dosage

8-16 oz unsweetened cranberry juice daily, or 500 mg cranberry extract standardized to 36 mg PACs.

Cautions

May interact with blood thinners (warfarin). High in oxalates — those prone to kidney stones should limit intake. Not a treatment for active UTIs — see a doctor for infection symptoms.

Research

Jepson et al., Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 2012 — Cranberries for preventing UTIs

Frequently asked questions

What is Cranberry UTI Prevention Drink used for?

Proanthocyanidin protection for urinary tract. Cranberry proanthocyanidins (PACs) prevent E. It falls under Kidney & Urinary Health.

How do you make Cranberry UTI Prevention Drink?

Mix 8 oz unsweetened cranberry juice with water and a squeeze of lemon. Sweeten with a small amount of honey if needed. Avoid sweetened cranberry cocktails which contain excessive sugar.

What is the recommended dosage for Cranberry UTI Prevention Drink?

8-16 oz unsweetened cranberry juice daily, or 500 mg cranberry extract standardized to 36 mg PACs.

Is Cranberry UTI Prevention Drink safe? Are there any cautions?

May interact with blood thinners (warfarin). High in oxalates — those prone to kidney stones should limit intake. Not a treatment for active UTIs — see a doctor for infection symptoms.

What is the evidence behind Cranberry UTI Prevention Drink?

Strong evidence. Jepson et al., Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 2012 — Cranberries for preventing UTIs