by Jessica Martin RN

Created on: September 27, 2010

The most common tract infection home remedy is non-sweetened cranberry juice and that is because there is good evidence that cranberry juice can help both prevent and treat UTIs in people that are susceptible to them. Cranberry juices have been found to contain fructose which interferes with the adhesion of harmful bacteria to the bladder.

What are the symptoms of a urinary tract infection?

The most common symptoms include a frequent, pressing need to pass water and/or a sharp pain or a painful, burning sensation when passing water. The infection can affect the urethra, ureters, or bladder. It affects both women and men; predominantly it is more common in women.

But how much Cranberry Juice should be consumed on a daily basis to in order for this remedy to be effective?

Studies have shown that 300ml of cranberry juice consumed daily can be effective at treating urinary tract infections.  Those are that sexually active are more prone to regular occurrences of UTI’s in which case cranberry juice can be effective at reducing the risk of UTI when consumed on a regular basis. Note, many commercial brands that sell cranberry juice contain sugar and in which case it is ineffective. The juice has to be 100% organic with no sugar or other flavours.

However not all people like Cranberry juice in which case a cranberry supplement such as cranberry tablets can be taken. Plus in the long run, it is more cost-effective at purchasing tablets over organic cranberry juice.

Are there any side effects to consuming too much cranberry juice when considering it as a form of a UTI remedy?

Cranberry juice has not been found to elicit side effects even when consumed in large quantities. However it is recommended that only 8 ounces of organic cranberry juice be consumed 2-3 times daily when treating a UTI. Based on research conducted, cranberry juice is a good preventative method for women prone to UTI’s.  It also been shown that when consumed excessively ( i.e 2-3 litres daily) it can cause diarrhoea and increase the risk of uric acid kidney stones.

Another effective tract infection home remedy and close family member to cranberries are blueberries. There are claims that blueberries are also effective at interfering with the adhesion of harmful bacteria to the bladder reducing the risk of UTIs.  Adding raw blueberries to a smoothie in the morning or adding them natural yogurt with a drop of honey is another way of utilising blueberries as a remedy for UTIs.

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