Can cranberry juice or cranberry supplements help prevent urinary tract infections or improve overactive bladder?

Answer:

Cranberries contain a variety of polyphenolic compounds that include proanthocyanidins (PACs). PACs have been shown to limit the ability of E. coli bacteria to adhere to the walls of the bladder and urinary tract. By limiting this adhesion, PACs from cranberry — particularly water soluble A-type PACS — may reduce the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Evidence from one clinical trial also suggests cranberry may reduce symptoms of overactive bladder. As discussed below, much of the research on cranberry has focused specifically on cranberry PACs.

(See ConsumerLab's tests of cranberry juices and supplements, including amounts of soluble PACs we found in products, in our Cranberry Juices and Supplements Review.)

ConsumerLab explains what to look for when choosing a cranberry juice or supplement (including products such as Ellura/Urell) to help prevent UTIs, and how products such as Ellura, AZO Cranberry, TheraCran and Ocean Spray's Cranberry +health chews differ. The answer also discusses potential side effects and drug interactions with cranberry juice. Sign in to see the full answer >>