A urologist says that cranberry juice can be used to treat urinary tract infections. UTI is a bacterial infection that affects the urinary system. It causes burning sensations while peeing, frequent urination and pain in the lower abdomen. The urine may also have a foul smell and look milky or cloudy. It may even contain blood. The symptoms are often more severe in older people.
PAC in cranberries stops bacteria from attaching on to the urinary tract walls
The active ingredient in cranberries, called PAC, prevents bacteria from attaching to the urinary tract walls. It can be used in a variety of ways. It may act as a receptor analog to prevent p-fimbriated E.coli from adhering with urinary tract cells. This anti-adhesion effect is independent of antibiotic resistance.
Studies have shown that high-doses of cranberry PAC are effective in reducing the incidence of recurrent UTI. In addition, these supplements may reduce the incidence of future infections. High-doses of PAC in cranberry products are not recommended for everyone. Some can cause gastrointestinal problems or excess calories.
E. coli adhesins are inhibited by PAC in cranberries
Recent research has shown that E. coli uropathogenic strains can be inhibited by cranberry PACs. The results suggest that cranberry PACs inhibit the formation of double A-type linkages, which may be important in the anti-adhesion process. These results are promising, but further research is required to determine their biological significance.
The anti-adhesion activity of PAC in cranberries was detected in bacteria two hours after oral intake but disappeared eight hours later. This means that cranberry products must be consumed twice daily to achieve a long-lasting, sustained anti-adhesion effect.
PAC in cranberries reduces uti disease morbidity
Recent research has shown that cranberry extracts have a PAC that can lower the risk of UTIs. Natural phenolic compounds such as cranberry extract and PAC, reduce the risk of infection by inhibiting the adhesion to bacteria in the uroepithelium. Its effectiveness as a UTI treatment should be confirmed by well-powered, randomised clinical trials. The studies should also report any harmful side effects associated with cranberry consumption. Standardization of outcome measures is important so that studies can be compared.
PAC found in cranberries has a dose dependent anti-adhesion effect and has been shown to inhibit bacterial adhesion of epithelial cells. This effect is independent of antibiotic resistance, and it has been reported to decrease virulence in E. coli and P. aeruginosa in studies.
