Evidence supporting the use of: Cranberry
For the body system: Urinary System

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Table of Contents

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) has a long history of use for supporting urinary tract health, particularly for the prevention of urinary tract infections (UTIs). The proposed mechanism involves cranberry’s high content of proanthocyanidins (PACs), which are thought to inhibit the adhesion of Escherichia coli bacteria to the lining of the urinary tract, thereby reducing the likelihood of infection. Several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have investigated cranberry’s efficacy in preventing UTIs. While some studies show a modest reduction in the risk of recurrent UTIs, especially in women with frequent infections, the evidence overall is mixed and not uniformly strong. The Cochrane Review (2012, updated 2023) concluded that cranberry products may decrease the number of UTIs in women with recurrent infections, but the effect is small and not all studies confirm the benefit. There is limited evidence for its use in other populations, such as elderly individuals or those with neurogenic bladder. Cranberry is not typically used to treat active infections or for other urinary conditions. Most authoritative guidelines do not recommend cranberry as a first-line intervention but acknowledge its use as a supplementary, generally safe option for prevention. Thus, cranberry’s use to support the urinary system is justified by moderate scientific evidence, but not unequivocally supported for all individuals or as a substitute for medical therapy.

More about cranberry
More about Urinary System

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Other body systems supported by cranberry

Bladder
Urinary System
Vagina