A bacterial infection, generally caused by Escherichia coli, in the urinary tract is called a UTI (urinary tract infection). Cystitis or a bladder infection is located in the lower urinary tract. The symptoms of a bladder infection include painful urination, lower back pain and urgency with urination. A kidney infection.or pyelonephritis is located in the upper urinary tract. Symptoms of a kidney infection include fever, flank pain, vomiting, painful urination and urgency with urination.

While oral antibiotics are prescribed by most physicians to treat a UTI, cranberry juice is useful for battling urinary tract infections. Proanthocyanidins found in cranberries prevent E. coli from sticking to the walls of the uterus and bladder. Cranberry juice also stops the E coli from multiplying. Research shows that cranberry juice can start working within eight hours of drinking. People that prepare juice from fresh cranberries at home receive the most health benefits. 100% pure unsweetened cranberry juice is second to fresh juice; however, benefit may be realized from juice drink mixes from concentrate.

A person should see a physician if a urinary tract infection is suspected. Antibiotics are often necessary. However, cranberry juice can reduce the occurrence of UTI's, prevent some UTI's and speed the healing process. Cranberries do not build-up in the system resulting in antibiotic resistance as with prolonged use of antibiotics. A glass of cranberry juice a day may keep the doctor away! In addition, the citric acid and other nutrients in cranberry juice may prevent kidney stones.

Additional Benefits:

• Clear skin conditions such as acne, eczema and psoriasis
• Contains antioxidants to slow the aging processFlushes out harmful toxins
• Increases the metabolismInhibits the development of cancerous cells in breast, colon, lung and prostate cancer
• Lowers bad cholesterol levels
• Prevents periodontal (gum) disease


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