by Eva Perry

Created on: June 05, 2007   Last Updated: June 09, 2010

In past years, cranberries were merely thought of as a possible anecdote for urinary tract infections, but today, cranberries are recognized as an effective and natural way, to help treat urinary tract infections.

The acid from the cranberry fruit helps to flush your system and when  the juice reaches the urine, it creates acidity to help eliminate the bacteria, as well as, deter bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract.

Today, urinary tract infections are quite common in women, and the use of cranberry supplements to treat them is also widespread. The fact is, more women seem to contract urinary tract infections then men. The reasoning behind this, is primarily due to the shorter urethra of women, that allows bacteria reach the bladder easier, than men. Another fact is mainly due to the location of the urethra, as well, since it is located near the rectum in women, allowing easier access for bacteria to contaminate that area. Proper hygiene of wiping and washing that area after a bowel movement should help to control this problem.

How effective are cranberry supplements for the treatment of urinary tract infections? Cranberries can help, but it's best to use cranberries and supplements routinely, to help prevent any future, urinary tract infections from initially occurring.

The truth is, once a urinary tract infection is diagnosed, cranberry supplements can't be used to effectively treat the infection. They can be used, however, to possibly prevent one. It's best to seek medical care from a physician to avoid further complications that could arise.

Antibiotics are used to properly treat a UTI (urinary tract infection), with further tests required to determine when additional antibiotics are needed to completely alleviate the infection. Your doctor may prescribe using a medication for a few months or longer, depending on your history of urinary tract infections.

If you choose to use cranberry drinks, the cranberry juice drinks with the highest concentration of cranberry juice are usually recommended, since it supplies you with more of the actual cranberry product. Beware of the cranberry cocktails that only contain a small concentration of the cranberry juice, since they will not be as effective in providing the health benefits that the higher concentrated drink can give you.

If you are someone prone to recurring urinary tract infections, there are step to help prevent them.

    • Remember always to drink plenty of water and other fluids, such as cranberry juice, daily to keep your system well hydrated.

    • Wipe from front to back to avoid possible contamination after bowel movements.

   • Always urinate when you feel the urge. Don't try to hold your urine, especially for long periods of time.

    • It's best to maintain a diet rich in important nutrients, for example, lean meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, and high dietary fiber. This lifestyle can help combat illness and protect yourself from developing any infections, such as a urinary tract infection.

Finally, remember that urinary tract infections are treatable, but it's best to try and avoid them with preventative measures, such as the use of cranberry supplements.

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