Is Cranberry Juice Good for Kidney Stones? What Science Says!
Cranberry juice is a popular home remedy for kidney stones. These are small, hard deposits that form in your kidneys. They are made up of minerals and acid salts. When these substances become concentrated, they can form stones. Stones can then travel down the urinary tract and get stuck. This can cause severe pain.
Some people use cranberry juice to help dissolve stones so they can pass them more easily. But is cranberry juice good for kidney stones? Others use it to heal the urinary tract and reduce pain during passing. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how cranberry juice can be used for stones and whether there’s any scientific evidence to support its use.
How the juice works:
The juice is one of those old wives’ remedies that many people swear by. Some say that it can cure a UTI, while others claim that it prevents stones. But what does science have to say about these claims?
Let’s take a closer look.
- It has been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of UTIs. This is because it contains a type of sugar called proanthocyanidins (PACs), which prevents bacteria from sticking to the walls of the tract. This means that bacteria are less likely to infect the urinary tract and cause an infection.
- As far as these stones are concerned, there is some evidence to suggest that it may help to prevent them. Kidney stones are caused by a build-up of crystals in the kidney, and cranberry juice has been shown to inhibit the growth of these crystals. It may also help to dissolve small kidney stones.
So, How Does It Work?
- It is thought to work by aiding the health of those who are prone to developing stones. This may help to prevent or reduce pain during the passage.
- Additionally, it is a source of healthy nutrients. The components may help to break down stones into smaller pieces so they can pass more easily.
It is a popular remedy for many urinary tract issues. It is thought to help because it contains proanthocyanidins (PACs). These are compounds that prevent bacteria from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract. This means that bacteria are less likely to infect the urinary tract.
Conclusion:
So, should you start drinking cranberry juice if you’re prone to UTIs or kidney stones? The evidence seems to suggest that it couldn’t hurt! While more research is needed to confirm the exact mechanisms at play, it is a relatively safe and natural remedy that is worth trying if you’re looking for relief from these common problems.