New research from researchers at Bond University in Australia has given some credence to the often touted benefit of cranberries in treating urinary tract infections (UTIs).
The Bond University researchers sought to determine whether there is any truth behind cranberries being an effective treatment for UTIs. They conducted a meta-analysis which involved 20 studies. What they found was that cranberry juice does offer some benefit in preventing UTIs.
The various randomized controlled trials all had participants drinking unsweetened cranberry juice regularly for weeks up to months. After reviewing the data, researchers found that drinking cranberry juice resulted in a 27 percent lower rate of UTIs when compared to a placebo drink.
An added benefit was also discovered. Participants who drank cranberry juice had a 49 percent lower rate of antibiotic use than their placebo counterparts. This suggests that the tart, crimson beverage may help to keep infections at arms length and lessen the need for antibiotics.
While additional research is needed to determine what amount of cranberry juice needs to be consumed in order to have an impact on UTIs as well as for how long it needs to be consumed, researchers are encouraged by these initial findings.
