Stefania Pelfini, La Waziya Photography / Getty Images
1.
Helps Prevent UTIs
Cranberry is the best-studiedhome treatment for UTIs.
Can Cranberry Juice Treat an Existing UTI?
Stefania Pelfini, La Waziya Photography / Getty Images
No evidence suggests that cranberries or cranberry juice can effectively treat an existing UTI.
Supports Digestive Health
Cranberries contain antioxidant compounds calledpolyphenolsthat have been shown to have potential benefits for digestive health.
Slight improvements in inflammatory markers were also observed.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that cranberry supplementation may improve body weight and blood pressure levels.
Cranberries may also help improvehigh-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterolconsidered “good” cholesterolin younger adults.
Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Boosts Immune Health
Cranberry juice is a good source ofvitamin C, which is important for immune system function.
Research suggests that inadequate vitamin C consumption can lead to impaired immunity and a higher risk of infections.
Reduces Infection Risk
One study noted that components of cranberry, particularlyproanthocyanidins, can promote oral health.
Side Effects From Too Much Cranberry Juice
Cranberry juice is generally considered safe for most healthy individuals.
These symptoms are more likely to occur in young children.
Cranberry juice may intensify the effects of Jantoven (warfarin), a blood-thinning medication.
Which Cranberry Juice Is Best?
If you find pure cranberry juice too tart, dilute it with water to make it more palatable.
It may also help prevent urinary tract infections.
Additionally, it can interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners.
USDA.Cranberry juice, unsweetened.
Das S.Natural therapeutics for urinary tract infections-a review.Futur J Pharm Sci.
2021;16(9):e0256992.
doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0256992
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.FDA announces qualified health claim for certain cranberry products and urinary tract infections.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.Cranberry.
2022;6(Suppl 1):272. doi:10.1093/cdn/nzac053.013
USDA.Cranberry juice can boost heart health.
2020;39(3):774-788. doi:10.1016/j.clnu.2019.04.003
Carr A, Maggini S.Vitamin C and immune function.Nutrients.
MedlinePlus.Taking warfarin (coumadin).
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Rethink your drink.
