Last Updated on January 18, 2023 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
According to a popular YouTube video, cranberry concentrate can treat urinary tract infections. We verified the claim’s accuracy. Our findings show that the claim is Mostly False.
The Claim
A well-liked YouTube video titled “Home remedies for Urinary Tract Infections” claims that certain compounds found in cranberry supplements flush out bladder-infecting bacteria and expedite the healing process.
Fact Check
What precisely is a urinary tract infection?
The most typical infection in people is a urinary tract infection (UTI). The condition known as a urinary tract infection (UTI) is one in which bacteria have colonized and are growing there. The condition primarily affects the bladder and urethra in the lower urinary tract.
The UTIs can cause pain or discomfort, a burning sensation when urinating, frequent urges to urinate but little output, lower abdominal pressure, blood in the urine, smelly, cloudy urine, and even a high fever. The patient may also experience fatigue, trembling, weakness, or even confusion.
Do women really have a higher risk of getting urinary tract infections than men do?
Yes, it is true that women can experience UTIs up to 30 times more frequently than men. This is because the urethra in women is shorter, making it easier for bacteria to enter the urethra and bladder. The primary cause of the infection is Escherichia coli. The primary risk factors include frequent sexual intercourse, some birth control pills, and even menopause. A compromised immune system, abnormalities and obstructions of the urinary tract, the use of catheters, and urinary surgeries are additional risk factors.
Can cranberry-based products be used to treat urinary tract infections?
No, not right away. Even so, some studies suggest that drinking unsweetened cranberry juice or taking cranberry supplements may help prevent UTIs. This is because cranberry juice or tablets contain tannin, or proanthocyanidin, which lessens the amount of E. coli that colonizes bladder walls.
Our dietician, Kamna Chauhan, goes on to say that there isn’t any proven proof that cranberry juice can treat infections of the urinary tract. Nevertheless, consuming it in moderation may aid in battling bladder bacteria and avoiding UTIs. This is because cranberries contain a substance called proanthocyanidins. However, they also have side effects because even cranberries have a high acidity level, which is why some people cannot drink it, and because cranberry juice contains a salt called oxalates that can result in kidney stones. It could therefore be consumed to aid in detoxification.
Unfortunately, the cranberry product’s acidic nature restricts its use in the treatment of urinary tract infections.
Regrettably, the acidic nature of the cranberry product limits its use in the prevention of urinary tract infections. However, more research is required to determine the potency and the right dosage required to prevent urinary tract infections. Cranberry juice is, therefore, not the first option for avoiding UTIs.
When we asked the dietician Priyanka if cranberries could treat UTis, she advised that research had shown cranberries to contain an element called A-type proanthocyanidins (PACs) that inhibits bacteria from sticking to bladder walls. This may reduce the risk of bladder and other UTIs but won’t treat them.
What can be done to prevent urinary tract infections?
Please be aware that urinary tract infections can be incredibly painful and frustrating. While prescribed antibiotics are the only effective treatment for UTIs, there are other easy ways to prevent the infection. Since the bladder needs to be cleared of harmful bacteria, drinking a lot of water may be beneficial. Blotting and front-to-back wiping are two more crucial safety measures after bowel clearance. Avoid using feminine hygiene products and practice good hygiene while engaging in sexual activity.
THIP MEDIA TAKE: The conclusion is that though cranberry products, such as pills and unsweetened juice, do, in fact, prevent the bacterial growth that causes UTI, more clinical trials are needed to determine their effectiveness. Despite the fact that cranberry products are usually safe, it should be noted that they might not be the best method of prevention because of their acidic nature. As a result, the claim is mostly false.
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