Are Cranberry Pills Good for UTIs?

Updated on February 9, 2021

Nothing is more irritating than the dawning realization you have a UTI (urinary tract infection). These are bacterial infections in the urinary system, and while common and usually not serious, they can be very uncomfortable for those afflicted.

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How Do You Get UTIs?

UTIs can become an issue for practically anyone but is more likely to occur in women. UTIs become more common if you have already had one, and usually occur if you don’t remember to do these things: wipe from front to back after going to the bathroom, washing your genitals, urinate before and after sex, or wear inappropriately constricting clothes and underwear. Drinking lots of water to ensure you are properly hydrated, and not holding it in when you need to urinate are good habitual methods to prevent contracting a UTI.

What Happens When You Get UTIs?

The symptoms of UTIs are fairly recognizable and circulate mainly around the process of urination. If you feel urinating is painful or experience a burning sensation, this is an obvious sign of a UTI. The urge to pee right away and at frequent intervals, as well as only being able to do so in small amounts, is also a common indicator. You may also experience pain in your lower belly (in the region of your bladder) or in the lower back (where your kidneys are situated). The urine itself may become dark or cloudy, odious, and will perhaps even show visible traces of blood. You should go for urinary tract infection treatment at Austin Tx if any of these symptoms occur.

Can Cranberry Pills Help?

It is a widely acknowledged technique for curing UTIs, but do cranberries have a real medical benefit as well as being a healthy and tasty fruit? The professional research is fairly vague, but it is recommended for women who are at risk for UTIs. Unsweetened cranberry juice or supplements may help ensure you are less susceptible to UTIs. Some researchers have theorized the nutrients in cranberries make the bacteria which cause UTI’s unable to stick to the walls of the urinary tract. Others think that ingesting cranberry in the form of juice or supplements change the pH level of urine, making it more acidic and less hospitable for the bacteria. 

So, this begs the question – Are Cranberry Pills Good for UTIs? The answer is, most likely! Supplements are small and easily ingested, quick to take and compact enough to store anywhere in your house, even in your handbag. Some may find it preferable to drinking lots of juice.

UTIs are no fun, but we hope this article has made you informed of how they occur, and given you some good advice on how to spot a UTI, how to modify your behaviors to reduce the chance of getting one, and what can help ease your symptoms if you were unlucky enough to already have one. Remember, it’s not the end of the world, but contact your doctor if anything feels amiss, as in severe cases, antibiotics can be prescribed.

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