A new study has confirmed that cranberry juice significantly reduces the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). 

A meta-analysis led by researchers at Bond University pooled data from 20 studies involving 3,091 participants worldwide, found that individuals who consume cranberry juice are 54 per cent less likely to develop UTIs.

Lead researcher Dr Christian Moro says cranberry juice shows clear potential as an effective alternative to antibiotics in UTI prevention and management. 

“More than half of women experience UTIs and antibiotics are a go-to treatment prescribed by doctors,” said Dr Moro. 

“With antibiotic resistance increasing, it is vital to identify effective non-drug interventions. Cranberry juice is an effective and easy intervention that should be considered for the management of UTIs.”

The research, conducted in collaboration with the University of Oxford and the University of Helsinki, revealed that cranberry juice not only prevents UTIs but also reduces the need for antibiotics by 59 per cent and alleviates symptoms in those with existing infections. 

While other forms of cranberry consumption, such as tablets or increased water intake, also showed benefits, the study highlighted that cranberry juice in combination with fluid was most effective.

The finding is significant given the prevalence of UTIs, with about 50 per cent of women and 20 per cent of men experiencing a UTI in their lifetime. 

The study's outcomes offer a promising non-drug intervention, particularly relevant in the context of rising antibiotic resistance.

The findings are based on an examination of randomised controlled trials, assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation framework. 

Results from 18 of the 20 trials indicated that cranberry juice led to a 54 per cent lower rate of UTIs compared to no treatment and a 27 per cent lower rate than placebo liquids. 

Additionally, the consumption of cranberry juice resulted in a 49 per cent lower rate of antibiotic use than placebo liquids and a 59 per cent lower rate than no treatment.

Given these results, the researchers call for the consideration of cranberry juice in clinical guidelines for UTI management, particularly as a strategy to reduce antibiotic usage and combat antimicrobial resistance.

The full study is accessible here.