Title
How can I prevent bladder infections?
Abstract
There is moderate evidence supporting the use of cranberry juice and tablets to prevent
recurrent UTIs in women. Cranberries contain a substance that prevents bacteria from
adhering to the walls of the urethra and bladder, inhibiting colonization and spread. The
findings regarding men, elderly women or people with neurogenic bladder are
inconclusive, although this may be due to a lack of standardized methods within and
across studies. In regard to using cranberry for recurrent UTIs in women, the effective
dose has not been clearly identified although good results were seen with a quarter cup of
concentrate, an 8oz glass of juice or two tablets per day. Side effects may occur, the most
common of which is GI upset. More rare effects include oxalate kidney stones and
allergic reaction to the aspirin-like components found within cranberry preparations
Description
The information provided in this handout does not necessarily reflect the views of the University of Minnesota Medical School physicians and faculty. These materials are provided for informational purposes only and are in no way intended to take the place of the advice and recommendations of your personal health care provider. You use the information provided in these handouts at your own risk.
Suggested Citation
Lebares, Carter.
(2008).
How can I prevent bladder infections?.
Retrieved from the University of Minnesota Digital Conservancy,
https://hdl.handle.net/11299/5863.