PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Urinary tract infections occur four times more often in women than in men. The cause is usually a bacterium called E. coli, but there are other bacteria that lead to the problem.
These can be detected on urine samples as part of testing. If you have repeated infections, you might need an additional series of tests. Antibiotics often cure the problem, but can cranberry juice also help?
Concentrated cranberry juice can help reduce the chances of infection because of natural chemicals called proanthocyanidins, or PACs, found in the fruit, which help fight inflammation and support a healthy system. PACs are flavonoids, a type of plant compound found in deep-colored fruits and vegetables that is rich in antioxidants.
If you are someone who gets repeated infections, make sure you get care, but know that cranberry juice could also help.
Get more medical reports from Dr. Brian McDonough.
KYW Newsradio's Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.
