| Women who drink cranberry juice on a daily basis might be preventing urinary tract infections. Two compounds found in cranberries might be deterring the formation of infection-causing bacteria from the lining of the urinary tract.
Taken from a liquid or tablet form, the content of berries have initiated several studies since 1966 on the link with urinary tract infections.
Researchers noted that the women who were most likely to benefit from regular consumption of cranberry juice or tablets were those who were sexually active adult women with recurring urinary tract infections. Researchers stated that the women with these characteristics were likely to experience a 50 percent decrease in infection rates.
The tendency for women to chose cranberry juice as a possible preventative method for urinary tract infections is believed to be derived not only from its appealing taste, but also its use as a natural product and alternative to taking an antibiotic.
Researchers suggested future studies on the effects of cranberries and their correlation to urinary tract infections. They also said the studies should involve different population groups, different doses and a comparison between the liquid and tablet forms.
Science Daily April 29, 2004
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